Many of us are trying to upgrade our existing furniture and home decor style on a budget these days. As you probably know, one of the easiest ways to do this is to shop for vintage and used items. But what if you cannot find exactly what you need? Or perhaps you do not like the color schemes of vintage objects? Some quick furniture redoes can be exactly what you need for a new look on a small budget.
To sweeten the deal, you can even use objects that you have on hand to create recycled furniture, meaning that you are only out the cost of a few minimal supplies. You can fill your home with interesting, eye-catching furniture, and take pride in the fact that you made it yourself.
Suitcase Table
If you are in need of a coffee table or end table, look no further than your local antique shop or thrift store. While tables with built-in storage can get rather pricey, you can transform old luggage into a table that multitasks for a matter of dollars. Simply fix legs to the bottom of the suitcase to create a unique table with vintage appeal. This object is perfect for office areas because of the built-in storage, and it also works well for guys’ rooms and book nooks.
Picture Frames
You can do so many things with beautiful old picture frames that it is impossible to list them all. These items are versatile enough to work on everything from serving trays to bookshelves. To create a tray, simply put the fabric of your choice in between the glass and the back of the frame. Make sure that the back is well-secured to avoid accidents. You can use mirrored glass in a picture frame to create a beautiful display for large pillar candles. Picture frames can also be converted into small tables that are perfect for bedside or couchside placement.
Simply begin as if you were converting your frame into a tray, but add tall legs to the back of the frame. If you are tired of the same old boring bookshelves, remove the back and the glass from a few beautiful frames. Create a box with the same dimensions as your frame using sturdy boards. Fix the frame to the box, and hang it on the wall for an artistic way to perch your reading materials.
Folding Chairs
Remember the old, ugly folding chairs that you used to see in offices, churches, and schools? Believe it or not, these metal chairs can create adorable seating for your small spaces. Just remove the seat and spray paint the chairs in bright, attractive colors. Select fabric coverings for the seat in beautiful patterns, and voila, you have new seating for a fun dining area or your deck. For an artsy, current look, paint each chair in a different color and select eclectic patterns for each seat. This recycled furniture idea works wonderfully in small homes, spare rooms, and studio apartments, because the chairs fold easily for quick storage and they do not waste space when stowed away.
Author Bio
This is a guest post by CharlieO, a part-time guest blogger and a full-time green communication specialist. Currently he represents World Market. Charlie believes that switching to alternative energy resources is the only way of future, and he also likes to keep things simple.