11. Reupholstering | DIY Projects
If the problem with an old furniture piece is the cushioning, then the easiest way to fix it is to reupholster it. This is the more permanent method of changing the fabric but can provide a more tight, clean finish as compared to slipcovers.
Reupholstering takes more time and patience and requires greater consideration about the intended impact on the room. Staple guns are your friends, though some parts can be stitched or glued together as well.
The detailed guide is here – https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-reupholster-a-couch#how-to-reupholster-a-couch
12. New Hardware
Hardware is an often-neglected aspect of the furniture, but the difference it makes when replaced or changed is huge. Changing the handles has a huge impact, especially if it is designed to match the other upgrades to the old furniture.
It also has a more functional benefit of ensuring that the handles are easy for everyone to use. It is also one of the easier methods of furniture upgrading, only requiring new hardware and a screwdriver.
For more details look here- https://megdeldesign.com/how-to-replace-furniture-hardware/
13. Replacing Legs | DIY Projects
The legs are an important part of the image of the furniture. One of the most effective ways to upgrade old furniture is to change the legs into something more suited to the style of the surrounding décor.
Changing the legs changes the silhouette of the furniture piece and also changes its effect. Thinner legs give a sense of elegance, while thicker legs add a warmer, more rustic effect. The legs should be selected carefully based on both aesthetic and functional considerations.
An example can be seen here – http://theblissfulbee.porch.com/ikea-hack-replacing-legs-on-an-ikea-couch/
14. Different Materials
Different materials produce different results in the ambiance of a room. Soft materials produce a cozy look, harder materials give a more sophisticated look. Changing the material of old furniture can have a major change in its impact on the interior design.
This process can be done in various ways, such as gluing the new surface to the old, nailing it in, or wrapping fabric around surfaces.
Here’s a simple way to convert a wooden stool to a faux fur one – https://www.homedit.com/videos/fur-covered-stool/
15. Repurposing | DIY Projects
Sometimes old furniture is no longer required to serve its original purpose but is still sturdy and usable. The solution is easy! Simply repurpose the furniture to be used in another capacity.
From using vertical bookshelves as horizontal cabinets, to splitting a large dresser into smaller storage units, repurposing furniture ensures that space is saved at a minimal cost.
16. Resin
Resin is a fun finishing material for DIY activities. It produces a glossy surface that adds a smooth elegance to the room. It can be further customized by mixing pigments into the resin, or by using it as a varnish or protective coating.
Epoxy Resin hardens into a solid substance when poured, and can be used to fill or replace broken-off parts of furniture in a trendy, rustic way.
A detailed example can be found here- https://resincraftsblog.com/coffee-table-refinished-resin
17. Stencils
Stencils are an easy way to create detailed textured patterns on furniture. Old furniture can be given a quick coat of paint and then a stencil can be used to create customizable designs.
The stencil can be used with thick paint to create reliefs that can be smoothed down as required. The stencil can be reused to create a more intricate pattern. Stencils also allow for more customization concerning color and method of paint application.
An example of using stencils can be seen here – https://salvagedinspirations.com/how-to-apply-stencil-texture-to-painted-furniture/
18. Contact Paper | DIY Projects
Contact paper is also called ‘peel-and-stick wallpaper’ because it is an adhesive paper with a decorative surface. It is more versatile than wallpaper, due to the ease of use. Different contact papers are available for different surface materials, and they can be replaced more easily and frequently as compared to wallpaper materials.
It is commonly used as a cheap faux substitute for materials such as marble or stone, adding a more modern feel to old furniture.
A more detailed guide is here- https://snappyliving.com/dress-up-old-furniture-with-contact-paper/
19. Weaving
Sometimes the skeleton of old furniture like chairs remains, without the padding or the seating. It means it is the perfect opportunity to create a surface that is more suited to the room. A great way to do this is to weave a rope across to create a support, like a net.
This is easy to do – all it needs is a bundle of rope and, depending on the type of furniture, some nails. The resulting product adds texture, color and provides a softer counterpart to the more rigid surfaces of the other furniture pieces.
A step by step guide is available here- https://www.todaysnest.com/2011-01-roping-in-style-discard-bench-makeover-html/
20. Paint | DIY Projects
If all else fails, there is always the reliable fallback – paint! A coat of paint does wonders to any piece of old furniture. Painting is often used in concert with other upgrading methods, and can be used for a variety of materials, including fabric.
Paint allows for great versatility of finish in terms of color and texture. Regular paint does require thorough prepping of the furniture though, but the end product is a clean result that can give a variety of moods, from quirky to classic.
A basic guide can be seen here – https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/painting/tips-on-painting-furniture
