Would you love to learn how to upcycle more in your home?
Would you love to keep your interior design projects more sustainable?
Upcycling furniture has many benefits and is becoming a more popular choice for those wanting to breathe new life into old pieces. With the rise in popularity and appreciation for Vintage and retro aesthetics, this taps into the growing appreciation for nostalgia and the charm of older furniture styles. The DIY culture and interest in crafts, taking on a creative challenge is definitely on trend.
The environmental impact of upcycling is paramount, it reduces waste by giving something old and ugly a new purpose rather than deposing of it. Why put something in landfill when it can be repurposed? Why put more demand on materials when you have something already available to you?
Upcycling can be more cost-effective than buying new furniture. With some basic tools and materials, you can transform an old piece into something unique and attractive. Older pieces of furniture are often made from solid wood and sturdy materials, these can be more durable than some modern alternatives.
Upcycling furniture is unique and carries with it a story. A journey of how it got to your home and in what form. Maybe your nan used to house her record player, or the old cupboard that used to be full of board games played every year at Christmas. Often it can become a focal point in your home and spark conversations, by making it your own you’re creating a new story.
Upcycling can also be a great way to learn new skills like painting, woodworking or upholstery. You’ll get hands-on experience and the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands. It will allow you to express your creativity and personalise your furniture. You can choose colours, finishes and designs that showcase your style and design preferences.
It’s all about making upcycling furniture fun! So here are some easy steps to follow to get you started:
- Select your piece: Choose a piece of furniture, find a style you like whether it’s a Scandi-style dresser or a mid-century dining table, your choices are endless. It could be an old chair, sideboard, table anything you’d like to transform.
- Plan your design: Decide how you’d like it to look, and what you’d like to achieve. Consider painting, staining or adding new hardware (hinges/ handles) to change the appearance.
- Prepare the surface: Clean the furniture thoroughly to remove ingrained dirt, dust and grease. Sand the surface lightly to create a smooth keyed base for painting or staining. The better you prepare the surface the more professional the finish will look.
- Repair and Replace: Fix any broken parts like loose legs or broken drawers, and fill any cracks. Replace any broken handles or knobs.
- Choose your finish: Decide on the finish you’d like. This could include staining to highlight the natural wood, and chalk paint for a vintage look. Stencils or patterned paper for a more creative touch. Use the appropriate tools and techniques to apply your chosen finish. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding the next layer.
- Protect your work: Once your upcycling is complete, protect the surface with a clear varnish or wax to ensure durability and easy maintenance, put everything back together and ensure all areas are secure.
- Enjoy your creation: Place your upcycled piece of furniture in its new spot and admire your handiwork.
Remember upcycling furniture is about unleashing creativity and experimentation, it is a rewarding activity becoming more and more popular in today’s culture due to its combination of environmentally sustainable benefits, and creative hands-on, expression.
If you would like to find a piece of furniture that you’d like to make your own but don’t know where to start looking why not ask an expert interior designer for help?
Here at Jennifer Jones Interiors, we can do all the research and groundwork, finding the perfect piece of furniture, accessories and colour palette for any living space. Then all you need to do is get your creative hat on and get started. Get in touch today or visit our website for more information about how we can help you with your interior design project!