Over time, furniture wears out— but that doesn’t always mean that we should get rid of it. Many times, it can be revitalized or even improved! While we don’t necessarily like the thought of having to deal with worn out pieces, it does give us an opportunity to customize those pieces to fit our style.
Even if you don’t have a dated piece in need of some TLC, this post may fuel your inspiration to take on a DIY piece for fun. There are several gems that can be found by scouring local thrift stores, flea markets, estate sales, or antique shops. Let’s talk a bit more about what you can do to restore any worn-out furniture you may have.
Cleaning
Sometimes restoring old furniture can be as easy as giving a piece a good cleaning. If you have a piece made of wood, rattan, or wicker, then there are various methods that can be used to revive its surface. Oftentimes, you can cut through layers of dirt and wax by using an oil-based commercial wood cleaner. Or, with a little elbow grease, a solution of warm water and liquid detergent can work. Avoid overwetting the surface and dry thoroughly with a soft, clean cloth after rinsing.
If those methods fail, you may need to resort to a solvent cleaning, such as mineral spirits, turpentine, or denatured alcohol. For best results, apply with a rough cloth or even burlap, and then use a softer cloth to wipe it off as you go. Because these are harsh substances, it is best to work with them outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
Paint
A coat of paint can do wonders for a worn-out piece of furniture. Something like a tired dresser or end table can look new again with a simple touch-up. Neutrals such as cream or white are always a safe bet, but colors such as gray, green, yellow, red, or blue, can make it look a bit more current. Be sure to opt for low- or zero-VOC paint for your project. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s also a better option for your personal health.
Is there a certain way to paint your furniture? Yes. There are several factors to consider if you want your piece to turn out well. For instance, be sure to prepare your piece thoroughly by cleaning and sanding it. It’s also important that you pick the right kind of paint for your project. Oftentimes, this is dependent on how much you want to spend, the look you are trying to achieve, and the condition of your piece. When painting, keep a close eye on drips and wipe them immediately. If a drip starts to dry, leave it alone to dry completely. Then you can sand it off and paint that area again.
Hardware
If the furniture itself is dated, but still in good shape, consider changing out the hardware. Vintage styles with a modern twist are in— and it couldn’t be easier to get the look than by replacing the old hardware with something updated. Want vintage and unique all the way around? Check secondhand stores or online Etsy shops for hardware that will make your furniture truly one-of-a-kind.
For pieces that need more than hardware, now’s the best time to go all in with a full restoration. Drill new holes as needed for the hardware, focusing on filling in and sanding down the original holes to the point where they aren’t noticeable under your new paint.
Fabric
Sometimes all a piece of furniture needs is some fresh fabric. Depending on the piece of furniture, you could actually do the work yourself. Sofas may be a bit more challenging, but stools, dining room chairs, and even some accent chairs are a lot more manageable. The point is to bring the furniture into the present, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your fabric choice.
When the time comes to pick fabric for your furniture restoration, be sure to let us help. Stop into one of our showrooms or browse online to see your gorgeous selection of discount designer fabrics, which can be used for other decor projects as well.
