5 Easy Tricks For Fixing Up Worn Vintage Furniture

People love to give away furniture that gets worn and clunky. It is a joy to give that furniture new life! Someone else’s trash can become your treasure. Learning a few simple tricks about furniture restoration can help you see second hand pieces with new eyes. It might just seem like a boring old book shelf, but what else is possible? Check out the pictures that I’ve gathered here to learn a few simple techniques. You don’t have to be a carpentry expert in order to give these projects a try.

Trick # 1: Spray Paint It!

A little bit of spray paint (or a lot!) does wonders for your thrift-shop finds. If the surface starts out rusted or chipped, you will need to clean and sand it first to get a nice, even surface area. Spray paint on at least two coats to give it a brand new look. Tip it upside down to get the undersides!

Trick # 2: Think Beyond Solid Colors

Consider adding a fun print to your furniture. You can hand paint a design, use stencils, or try out this lace idea. Lay a piece of vintage lace over the surface you want to design, and then spray paint over it. If you do this outside, tape down the corners so that a breeze doesn’t ruin the look! And of course, use lace that you are willing to sacrifice for the sake of the project.

Trick # 3: Don’t Overlook the Simple Pieces

Lots of times when I am thrift shopping I have an eye out for the cool vintage details that I don’t see in modern design. I like the scallops, prints, and fancy features. But a bland hand-me-down can become a work of art. The bookshelf above started out as nothing special. After some love and attention was given to it, I think it looks like a masterpiece. Don’t you? Look at simple furniture items as if they were a canvas, waiting for your artistic abilities!

Trick # 4: You Can Reupholster With A Staple-Gun

Did you know that you can reupholster with a staple-gun? It sounds too good to be true, I know! But this trick is great when you want to whip something together fast. For this fold-up chair, a staple-gun was used to cover the old seat cushion with new fabric. I think that the fabric is what makes the chair so charming. Stapling is so easy and quick! These folding chairs would be great to keep around the dining room, kitchen or living room for those times when you need a few extra seats.

Trick # 5: Know Your Limits

If you are going to give an item of furniture a new look, make sure that you know your limits. Do you know how to fix a wobbly table leg? How about a cracked dresser drawer? If not, don’t purchase the piece. Leave it for someone else who has those expertise! In my case, I know that I can use wood glue, paint, and a staple-gun, but that is about where my abilities end. I always inspect the items I buy to make sure that the drawers open and close, the shelves are stable, and there are no cracks or holes. Also keep in mind your transportation situation. I once bought a dining-room table and then realized that I had to get it home in my Honda. That was interesting! If you have a small car, check with the store owners to see if they might deliver.

I hope that these five tips help! Restoring furniture is such a fun hobby. I love learning about it, and diving into new projects. Please let me know if you have any cool tricks of your own by leaving a comment below. Happy thrifting!