Do you have an old table that you love but can’t seem to look at anymore? Are you ready to redecorate but don’t want to purchase an entirely new set of furniture? Upcycling is a great way to refresh your space, channel your inner creativity, and choose options that are good for your home and the planet. However, finding a place to keep all your supplies and standby furniture can be challenging. If you’re interested in starting these DIY projects, we’ve put together a basic introduction along with a few ways self-storage can help you embrace the upcycling lifestyle.
What is Upcycling Furniture?
Upcycled furniture is a type of furniture that’s been repurposed in some way. It can be a small change in design or a complete renovation of the furniture itself. It might be as simple as sanding it down, but there are also several tips and tricks to create utterly new furniture ideas. Transform cabinets into mini bars or coffee tables into a footrest—the opportunities are endless. Regardless of what you do, the benefits of upcycling are undeniable. Not only will you declutter your home and get rid of things you no longer love, but you’re also contributing to sustainability and a more circular economy.
How to Upcycle Furniture
Upcycling a piece of furniture allows you to breathe new life into it and give it a fresh, stylish makeover. It allows you to transform worn-out pieces into statement furniture by adding a personal touch to your space while contributing to sustainable living. Luckily, there are several techniques you can use when it comes to upcycling, from simple upgrades to complete overhauls. Try to let your imagination guide you as you start your next project, as this can help you bring your unique style and personality into each piece. To help you get started, consider some creative ways to upcycle furniture and unleash your inner DIY enthusiast.
Change the Color
Have furniture that you don’t know what to do with? Don’t throw it away. Find a way to give it new life with a simple change of color. A fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference in revitalizing your furniture. Choose a paint color that complements your aesthetic and gives the piece a modern or vintage vibe. Consider bold hues or bright paint for a striking statement or neutral tones for a timeless appeal. Don’t forget to sand and prime the surface before repainting to ensure a smooth and durable finish.
Add New Hardware
Upgrading the hardware on your furniture is another quick and effective way to enhance its overall appearance. Swap out old knobs, handles, or pulls with stylish alternatives that align with your design preferences. Whether you opt for sleek and modern or vintage and ornate, new hardware can instantly elevate the look of dressers, cabinets, and other furniture pieces.
Use Stencils or Decorative Patterns
Incorporate creativity using stencils or decorative patterns to add flair to your furniture. Consider stenciling intricate designs, geometric patterns, or even nature-inspired motifs onto table surfaces, drawer fronts, or chair backs. This artistic touch can turn a plain piece into a unique and eye-catching focal point in your home.
Refine Wooden Pieces
Highlight the natural beauty of wooden furniture by refinishing it. Start by using sandpaper to remove any old finishes, stains, and imperfections. Then, when you’re ready, apply a new stain or sealant. This not only rejuvenates the wood but also allows you to customize the color and finish to match your style. You’ll be amazed at the transformation as the grain and texture of the wood come to life. It will take an old item and turn it into a piece you’re proud of.
Make it Rustic
Embrace the charm of rustic aesthetics by distressing your furniture. Use techniques like sanding, scraping, or even a vinegar solution to achieve a weathered look. This approach works particularly well with wooden pieces, giving them a timeworn appearance that adds character and warmth to your home. There are many ways to upcycle old furniture into rustic accompaniments, so do a little research and choose something that matches your desired aesthetics.
Reupholster Old Chairs
Give a second life to outdated or worn-out chairs by reupholstering them. Choose fabrics that complement your decor and showcase your personal style. Whether you prefer bold patterns, subdued solids, or a mix of textures, reupholstering allows you to tailor chairs to your taste, making them both comfortable and visually appealing.
How a Storage Unit Can Help You Create One-of-a-kind Furniture Pieces
While the idea of creating unique pieces might entice you, not everyone has unlimited space to keep things for future upcycling projects. So, if you want to upcycle and don’t have space in your home, find a nearby storage facility to help. Some of the ways that self-storage can help you take back your living space and still enjoy upcycling old furniture include:
Free Up Extra Space at Home — Whether you’re looking to start your next project now or don’t quite know what to do with that extra side table, self-storage space gives you the opportunity to keep your inventory high without cluttering your home.
Keep Old Furniture Available for New Ideas — It can be difficult to part with your favorite furniture when you’re not trying to repurpose it. A storage unit reduces the demand for new items, as you always have something on hand that needs to be upcycled.
Store Garage Sale Finds — If you enjoy the hunt involved in thrifting or garage sales, a self-storage unit gives you the perfect solution for all of your treasures.
Protect Old Pieces and Antiques — Even if you love the rustic look, antiques need to be properly protected and cared for to maintain their value. A storage unit gives you the perfect place to keep things in pristine condition.
Reduce Waste — Fast fashion and cheap furniture are bad for the environment and simply don’t last. A storage unit can help you reduce your carbon footprint by giving you time to fix something that’s broken rather than throwing it away.
Different Ideas for Your Next Upcycling Project
If you’re looking for great projects for beginners to embark on your\ upcycling adventure, consider these creative possibilities to breathe new life into everyday items:
Repurpose a Door — Turn an old door into a functional and stylish piece by transforming it into a unique table, headboard, or room divider. Sand, paint, or distress the door to match your aesthetic, and add legs or hinges for a personalized touch.
Transform a Dining Table or Desk — Give a worn-out dining table or desk a modern makeover by changing its color, refinishing the surface, or adding decorative elements. Consider repurposing it into a statement piece with stencils, and experiment with different leg designs for a custom look.
Use a Headboard to Make New Furniture — Convert an old headboard into a stunning bench, coat rack, or even a charming garden gate. The intricate designs on many headboards can add a touch of elegance to your upcycled creations, providing both functionality and visual appeal.
Turn Your Dresser Into a Statement Piece — Upcycle a dresser into a unique focal point for your space. Change the color, update the hardware, and consider adding stencils or patterns to drawer fronts. Repurpose the dresser as a stylish TV stand, entryway console, or even a bathroom vanity.
Make a Ladder Into Shelves — Transform a ladder into rustic and space-saving shelves. Whether you leave it as-is for a vintage look or paint it to match your decor, a repurposed ladder can add character to any room. Hang it horizontally on a wall or lean it against a surface for a practical and aesthetically pleasing storage solution.
Create Your Own Kitchen Island — Fashion a unique kitchen island by repurposing old cabinets, dressers, or even a table. Paint or refinish the piece to complement your kitchen decor, and add a countertop for a functional and customized island. Incorporate additional storage or shelves for added utility.
Why You Need a Climate-Controlled Storage Space When Repurposing
Always consider using self-storage units that are climate-controlled to ensure your furniture stays in pristine condition over the years. Although the upfront investment may be a little more, it saves you money in the long run as your wooden desks won’t warp and your upholster won’t rot. Find your nearest facility and see if they offer places to store furniture in the size you need. This will give you plenty of extra space in your home and make sure you have available furniture for future projects.
To help keep your items ready to repurpose, choose affordable self-storage at The Lock Up Self Storage. We offer flexible leasing options alongside various sizing options to fit everyone’s budget and needs. All our units are temperature-controlled and climate-controlled to keep your things in the best condition possible, regardless of how long they’re in storage. To give you even more peace of mind, all our locations have top-of-the-line security features, such as controlled gate access, motion-sensor lighting, 24-hour camera monitoring, and perimeter alarms. To find a self-storage unit near you, contact one of the representatives at The Lock Up Self Storage. Give us a call at 1-866-327-LOCK or browse available units online today.