Ever thought about the value of old furniture before throwing it away? Imagine transforming those pieces into stylish decor for your home. I’ve gathered 10 DIY home decor projects. They give new life to old furniture and bring a unique vibe to your space.
Think about turning old bookcases into elegant storage or making coffee tables from pallets. These ideas are eco-friendly and let your creativity shine. They show how recycled furniture can also be trendy. Each project combines imagination with utility, turning your home chic using your DIY skills.
Are you ready to make a cool bench from an old dresser? Or maybe a unique coffee table for your garden from window panes? Let’s explore these fun, green furniture hacks. Discover what you can create with items you no longer use.
These ideas are easy on your wallet and perfect for those who love practical style. Look through them and see how simple it is to transform old furniture. You can boost both looks and utility in your space!
Transform An Old Bookcase Into Elegant Storage
Turning an old bookcase into something new is a great idea. It adds unique and practical storage to your home. With creativity and a few items, you can rejuvenate an old furniture piece. Let’s explore some creative ways to make a bookcase both stylish and useful.
Materials Needed
You’ll need these items to update an old bookcase:
- Lumber
- Wood glue
- Wood trim/moulding
- Wooden embellishments
- Wooden feet (4 for a short bookcase, 6 for a full-size bookcase)
- Wood stain
- Spray paint
- Metal shelf pins
- Gorilla Tape
- Cardboard boxes (10 boxes of 12”x12”x12”)
- Textured wallpaper
- Black and copper spray paint
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Here’s how to remake an old bookcase over a weekend:
- Start with finding an old bookcase. You can find one on Craigslist for about $25.
- Take it apart if needed and sand everything down to make it smooth.
- Cut boards to make 5 new shelves and add them in.
- Use metal shelf pins to put in the new shelves securely.
- Attach extra lumber and trim with wood glue and nails for a finished look.
- Add wooden decorations using wood glue to make it look nicer.
- Stain the wood to get the color you want and let it dry.
- Spray paint the bookcase for a modern appearance.
- Strengthen any weak spots with Gorilla Tape.
- Make your own storage boxes from cardboard and cover them with wallpaper.
- Arrange these bins on the shelves to organize your stuff.
- Add wooden feet to raise the bookcase up. Use 4 for a short one and 6 for a taller one.
- Finish by painting the feet with black and copper spray paint.
Following these steps will completely change your old bookcase. It’ll become a highlight in your home.
Styling Tips
Here are some tips to make your bookcase fit well in your home:
- Pick a color for the bookcase that looks good with the rest of the room.
- Organize things in your new bins by type for a neat and attractive setup.
- Decorate the top of the bookcase with things like vases or pictures to make it pretty.
- Think about different ways to use the bookcase, like for drinks or laundry, to add more interest.
These tips help you turn a basic bookcase into a standout item in any space.
Creative Pallet Coffee Table Makeover
Turning upcycled pallets into a coffee table is a smart way to be eco-friendly. This DIY project adds style to your space. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to bring new life to old items.
Choosing The Right Pallet
Start by picking out the best pallets. They should be clean and free from pests or mold. It’s important to find them at places like lumber yards or stores. Always ask before you take any pallets.
Building the Table
To make the table, you’ll need two pallets. Begin by cutting a 4×4 post into four pieces for the legs. Fix the legs to the table with L brackets and screws. Use nails or a nailer to join the pallets.
A piece of plywood adds more stability. The plywood should measure about 2′ x 3’8″.
Finishing Touches
After building, it’s time to sand the table smooth. A palm sander works well for this. Then, stain the wood with your choice of color. Finish it off with a protective gloss.
Adding furniture feet is optional. Your new table is great for outdoor fun. It’s an eye-catching, eco-friendly addition to your home.
This project shows how old materials can be turned into something new and stylish. It’s a great talking point for your home.
Repurpose Windowpanes Into a Unique Coffee Table
Turning old windowpanes into a trendy coffee table is a very rewarding project. They come from a Virginia home built in the mid-1900s. These windowpanes aren’t just old pieces. They can be the main attraction in your living room.
First, you need to get some supplies. You’ll want wood table legs, drill bits for wood, paint, and stain. Think about getting hairpin table legs for a special look. There are affordable choices, but you can also go for custom-made ones. It’s critical to drill holes in the windowpane corners to attach the legs firmly. Choose legs that ensure both stability and style, considering the window’s wood ends.
Before you add the legs, think about decorating the glass. Use old newspapers or vintage maps for a touch of nostalgia. Then, paint the legs in yellow and light green. Use a gel stain for an old look, applying it with a foam brush. This will give them a vintage green hue.
This window table can be used in many ways. It’s not just a beautiful table but can also hang as unique artwork. You can repurpose salvaged windows for inside or outside spaces. They can become a chalkboard wall, a kitchen island, or a mini greenhouse. Imagine transforming storm windows into a tiny greenhouse.
Check out my YouTube channel for more DIY furniture projects and transformation tips. You’ll find loads of DIY, decorating, and painting ideas.
Turn a Table Lamp Into a Stunning Floor Lamp
Adding character to your space doesn’t need to be hard. You can turn a table lamp into a floor lamp. This easy upcycling project adds charm with minimal effort.
Tools Required
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Wire cutters
- Safety goggles
- Work gloves
Assembly Instructions
- Disassemble the Table Lamp: Start by using the screwdriver and wrench to take apart the lamp. Carefully separate the lampshade and base, and make sure to safely disconnect any electrical parts.
- Prepare the New Base: Pick a strong base like a wood stand. If needed, sand it and paint it twice for a nice look. Many choose distressed red chalk paint for a cute, rustic vibe.
- Attach the Lamp to the New Base: Fix the lamp’s parts to the new base with screws and strong glue. Make sure it’s sturdy.
- Reassemble and Test: Put back the lampshade or get a bigger one for the new height. Check the lamp to ensure it’s working correctly.
Styling and Placement
After putting your new floor lamp together, here’s how to make it fit perfectly in your space:
- Placement: Place the lamp in a nice spot or by your favorite chair. It adds warmth and improves lighting for reading or knitting.
- Decorative Details: Decorate the base with things like jute rope for a fresh look. Or use dark wax or black paint for a different style.
- Additional Lighting: Combine the floor lamp with other lights. This creates a cozy and welcoming feel in the room.
By turning an old table lamp into a new floor lamp, you make your decor eco-friendly and unique. Dive into DIY home decor projects. They allow you to express yourself and create special, standout items for your home.
Old Bedside Table Becomes a Functional Rolling Printer Cart
Turning old furniture into something functional and stylish is rewarding. Julianne’s project on her Instagram @lovelyhomecouture is a great example. She turned an IKEA TINGBY side table into a rolling printer stand. It shows off sustainable furniture design beautifully. This project not only reused old furniture but was also easy on the budget.
For her project, Julianne picked the smaller TINGBY table and added a few things from IKEA. She used three RÖDEBY armrest trays, HACKÅS cabinet pulls, a magnetic door catch, adhesive, and a screwdriver. She started by putting the table together with its wheels. This made the table easy to move. Julianne’s careful work made the table look sleek and work well.
The finished rolling cabinet is very versatile. It can be used for office supplies, crafts, or even as a side table. Julianne showed how a piece of furniture can have many uses in a home. This project is a perfect example of combining style and function.
There’s more to repurposing than just this project. Other DIY ideas include changing a shelving unit into a printer stand and adding a printer shelf to a cabinet. These projects are designed for specific storage needs. They keep things practical without sacrificing style.
Some DIY furniture projects use everyday items. Out of 77 projects, six use things like plastic containers and old books. One unique idea even turns a flour sifter into a flower pot. These projects are not only sustainable but also creative and useful.
Transforming an old piece of furniture is very fulfilling. As Julianne showed, with the right materials and some creativity, any old table can become a useful rolling cart. It’s a great way to mix sustainability with design.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| TINGBY Side Table | Smaller size used for the project |
| RÖDEBY Armrest Trays | Drilled and installed with magnetic door catches |
| HACKÅS Cabinet Pulls | Used for the handles |
| Construction Adhesive | Applied for securing parts |
| Battery-Powered Screwdriver | Used for assembling parts |
| 120-Grit Sandpaper | Used during the sanding process |
| RustOleum Vintage Teal | Color used for the project |
Sewing Table to Party Cooler Conversion
Turning an old sewing table into a cool party cooler is a great upcycling idea. It’s perfect for keeping drinks cold during outdoor parties and adds a special touch to your decor.
Materials and Tools
First, gather these materials and tools:
- Old sewing table ($10-$15)
- Plywood for a storage shelf ($8)
- Steam pans for ice buckets
- Gold pulls, mounted bottle opener, gold towel rack, gold hooks
- Sliced piping (conduit) straps
- Paint (Plutonium for inside, chalk paint “Nautical” Blue for the exterior)
- Urethane (Minwax Spar Urethane for outdoor protection)
- Minwax’s Polycrylic spray version
- L-brackets
Painting and Sealing
Start with sanding for a smooth finish. Use 80-grit then 120-grit sandpaper. Then, apply three layers of “Nautical” Blue chalk paint to the base, letting each dry fully.
A bright Plutonium Blue paint inside offers a striking contrast. Use Minwax’s Polycrylic spray to avoid drip marks on the wooden parts. Finish by sealing with Minwax Spar Urethane for weather resistance. This step helps the table manage light rain.
Assembly Instructions
Let’s assemble it:
- Cut the 1/4″ plywood for the shelf and secure it with conduit straps and L-brackets.
- Drill holes for the towel bar and accessories with a 3/4″ wood bit.
- Fit the steam pans into the tabletop holes for ice buckets. Make sure they fit snugly.
- Install gold pulls, towel rack, hooks, and the bottle opener for looks and function.
- Finish off by cleaning with tack cloths for a dust-free, polished look.
This project shows how you can turn an old sewing table into a unique party cooler. It’s a creative way to engage in furniture upcycling. You get to enjoy making DIY repurposed furniture on your own.
DIY Repurposed Furniture: Old Dresser to Bench Upcycle
Turning an old dresser into a bench is a great repurposing idea. It not only gives the piece a new purpose but also adds a seat in your home. This guide is for those looking to do diy furniture restorations or find upcycled furniture ideas. You’ll learn how to make a bench that fits any room.
Choosing Your Dresser
Pick the right dresser for this diy project first. Choose a solid wood dresser over one made of particleboard for more durability. Older dressers are often the best choice because they’re built to last.
- Remove about 44% of the drawers, but keep it balanced.
- Check that the dresser doesn’t have major damage or wood rot.
- Look at curbside finds or thrift shops for affordable options.
Transforming The Dresser
To change the dresser, you need some tools and materials:
- Tools required: 7 essential tools
- Wood filler: Elmer’s wood fill
- Sandpaper: 150-grit for smoothing
- Primer: Use Kilz or Zinsser primer in latex
- Paint sprayer: Graco airless paint sprayer
- Paints and stains: Two different types
Start by taking the dresser apart. Take out the drawers you don’t need and fill holes with Elmer’s wood fill. Sand the dresser with 150-grit sandpaper till it’s smooth. Prime it with Kilz or Zinsser primer, getting it ready for paint. Then use the Graco paint sprayer to evenly apply your paint or stain.
After the paint dries, put the dresser back together. Add cushions on top to make it comfortable. This not only makes it look better but adds extra seating in your house.
Perfect Placement Spots
The bench can go in many places in your home:
- Patio: A perfect spot for the bench, adding function and style.
- Mudroom: A great place for the bench, making it easier to deal with shoes.
- Entryway: Putting the bench here makes your entrance welcoming and practical.
This project shows a great way to reuse old furniture. You can add storage or cushions to make the bench fit your needs better. Enjoy how it combines use with beauty in your home.
Thrifted Dresser Turned Into a TV Stand
I love making creative furniture makeovers, like turning a thrifted dresser into a TV stand. This project gives old furniture a new purpose and shows the power of recycling. I found a dresser on Craigslist for $46.89 and turned it into a beautiful TV stand that I’ve used for nearly eight years!
The dresser was only $46.89, a great deal. I spent a lot of time, over 10 hours, looking for the perfect “BEFORE” photo on my phone. Finishing the dresser took a couple of years. I paid a lot of attention to getting everything just right.
Good prep is important for a furniture makeover. I put on two coats of primer for a good paint base. Then, I used Valspar Ultra White semi-gloss latex paint, which looked great after two coats. I also added a shelf inside for more storage. And I put cute pink knobs on the drawers for a special touch.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Cost | $46.89 |
| Durability | 8 Years |
| Primer Coats | 2 Coats |
| Shelf Thickness | 5/8-inch |
| Store for Materials | Hobby Lobby Clearance |
| Paint Used | Valspar Ultra White Semi-gloss |
| Drawer Details | Lined and Adorned with Pink Knobs |
| Project Parts | 3 Parts Total |
| Date of Blog Post | August 28, 2024 |
This TV stand from a dresser means a lot to me. It shows how we can be sustainable and creative by repurposing. Let your DIY spirit shine and see how you can change a space with your ideas.
Conclusion
Diving into DIY repurposed furniture projects is a great way to make old items look new. It saves you money and helps the planet. You can turn an old bookcase into a fancy storage space or make a TV stand from a thrifted dresser. Each project lets you be creative in your own way.
Doing these furniture transformations is good for your wallet and the Earth. Look for ideas on Pinterest and Instagram to start your next project. Make sure you have enough space to work and all the tools you need. This preparation helps a lot.
There are so many ways to refresh your furniture. You can paint, wallpaper, or try decoupage and stenciling. Use varnish or wax to keep your pieces looking good for a long time. Picking a style that fits the piece’s era makes it even more special.
Upcycling furniture is more than a creative hobby. It’s a step towards living a greener, more sustainable life. So, get your tools ready, look for inspiration, and begin transforming furniture. Each piece you work on is a move towards a more unique and eco-friendly home.
FAQ
Q: How can I transform an old bookcase into elegant storage?
A: To make an old bookcase elegant, start with paint, hardware, and trim. Use a tutorial for sanding, painting, and adding hardware. Style it well to blend into your home decor.
Q: Which type of pallet is best for building a coffee table?
A: For a coffee table, choose clean, sturdy pallets without toxic chemicals. Hardwood pallets are best for durability and looks.
Q: How can I repurpose windowpanes into a unique coffee table?
A: Use old windowpanes from an apartment building to make a coffee table. Clean them and attach to a frame with legs. It adds charm to your living room and sparks conversation.
Q: What tools do I need to turn a table lamp into a floor lamp?
A: To convert a table lamp into a floor lamp, you need a screwdriver, wire cutter, and maybe a drill. Get lamp rod extensions and a new base. Assemble carefully for safety.
Q: How can I convert an old bedside table into a rolling printer cart?
A: Making a rolling printer cart from an old bedside table is easy. Clean it, add wheels, and maybe paint it. This project breathes new life into old furniture and solves storage problems.
Q: What materials and tools do I need to turn a sewing table into a party cooler?
A: For a party cooler, gather paint, sealant, a cooler insert, screwdriver, paintbrushes, and drill. Paint and seal it well. It becomes a focal point for outdoor fun.
Q: How can I upcycle an old dresser into a bench?
A: Start with a sturdy dresser. Remove top drawers for storage under the seat. Cut out the seating area, add cushioning, and finish with paint or stain. It’s great for mudrooms or patios.
Q: What’s the process for turning a thrifted dresser into a multifunctional TV stand?
A: To make a TV stand from a dresser, remove drawers for equipment spaces. Sand and paint as you wish. This makeover lets the piece double as a buffet or entry table, adding versatility.