Why Upcycle Furniture?
Upcycling furniture is a great way to give old pieces a fresh look, reduce waste, and add a unique, personal touch to your home. Not only does it extend the life of furniture, but it also helps keep perfectly usable items out of landfills. At CFRC, we’re passionate about giving unwanted furniture a second chance by making it accessible to households looking for stylish yet budget-friendly options. Upcycling doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming—whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just getting started, here are some easy and beginner-friendly projects to help you transform your furniture with minimal time, effort, and cost.
Chalk Paint Makeover
One of the easiest ways to refresh an old piece of furniture is with chalk paint. It requires minimal prep work—no sanding or priming needed in most cases. However, if the piece has flaky or weathered paint, some prep work may be required. Simply follow these steps:
- Choose a colour that complements your space and start painting.
- Apply a first coat with a brush of your choosing then leave to dry.
- Apply a second coat to completely cover the furniture piece then leave to dry.
- Apply chalk paint wax all over the piece either with a wax brush or lint-free cloth.
Chalk paint gives a beautiful matte finish and can also be distressed for those who want a rustic look.
Decoupage with Fabric or Paper
If you have any thin paper or fabric scraps, use them to add a unique design to your furniture.
- Lightly sand the furniture piece if there is any dust or grease on the surface.
- Pick a decoupage material and design.
- Pick where the design will be placed.
- Cut the design to size
- Apply decoupage glue to adhere the fabric or paper to the surface.
- Seal it with a clear varnish for durability.
Decoupage materials include paper, napkins, fabric, and wallpaper. Thicker fabrics and textured wallpapers may need extra prep. Standard decoupage glue suits most materials, while stronger adhesives work for heavier fabrics or non-porous surfaces.
Stencil Designs for a Custom Look
Stencils are a great way to add patterns and designs to furniture without needing artistic skills. Either purchase some stencils or even make your own, then simply:
- Tape the stencil onto the furniture piece.
- Apply paint onto the stencil with a brush or sponge.
- Carefully remove the stencil to reveal the pattern.
- Apply sealant to protect the pattern from water, stains and nicks.
You can create geometric patterns, floral motifs, or even inspirational quotes!
Replace Hardware for a Modern Touch
Sometimes, a simple change in hardware can make a huge difference. Swap out old drawer pulls and knobs for modern, vintage, or eclectic designs to instantly update the look of your furniture. This is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to upcycle.
Final Tips for Upcycling Success
Start Small: If you’re new to upcycling, begin with a small piece before tackling larger furniture.
Use Quality Materials: Invest in good paint, brushes, and sealants for a long-lasting finish.
Be Creative: There’s no right or wrong way to upcycle—experiment with colours, textures, and styles.
Have Fun: Upcycling is all about enjoying the process and making something uniquely yours!
By trying these simple upcycling projects, you can give your old furniture a fresh look while developing new DIY skills. Have you tried upcycling before? Share your experiences in our Facebook page .