6 DIY Furniture Upgrades

Why buy when you can DIY? Upcycle with these 6 DIY furniture ideas.

If it’s been a while since you’ve redecorated, it can be tempting to give in to the urge to run out and buy something new.

But rather than blowing your budget on new home décor, consider a DIY makeover. Those chairs you’ve had for years, that headboard from your old house and even your scuffed bookcase all have so much potential.

Refreshing old furniture is a great way to give mismatched pieces a cohesive look while incorporating a hint of current trends. And when you’re doing it for less, you can refresh as many times as you like!

Step up your side tables

One of the best ways to transform tired side tables is with a coat of paint. But instead of choosing a standard white, go with a chic dove gray for a clean and contemporary look.

Of course, what’s the point in making the table look better if it’s still covered with clutter? Be ruthless in throwing out things you don’t need – not only will it show off your “new” table, but it will help your whole room look fresher and more minimalist.

Tip: Tight on space by your bedside? Try transforming a basic counter stool into an elegant side table!

Best-dressed drawers

A chest of drawers is a versatile piece of furniture that can be adapted and modernized in a multitude of ways. Try taking the drawers out and painting the surrounds of the unit, but leaving the drawers with their wood finish. Update the handles with sleek chrome, or wooden ones for a minimal Danish look. Alternatively, decoupauge the drawers with old maps, wrapping paper or embossed wallpaper for a quirky style.

Upholster your headboards

A headboard can create a stylish focal point for your bedroom, and it can be easily and regularly updated by using fabric in interesting patterns. You can even do a no-sew version: Simply buy some fabric in your favorite print, ensuring there is enough to cover the board with trim to spare. Taking your time, lay the board on the back of the fabric. Pull tight and use a staple gun to secure the fabric in place.

Bonus: Spritz some Febreze Air on that newly covered headboard for a soothing scent everytime you go to bed.

Coffee table cover-up

Instead of tossing a damaged coffee table, turn it into a stylish ottoman. Paint the legs, and get a piece of foam cut to the size of the top. Then simply cover the tabletop and foam with a piece of hardwearing fabric, securing in place with a staple gun. All that’s left to do is put your feet up.

No more boring bookcases

Interior designers view bookcases as the place to show off how effortlessly stylish you are. Try painting the inside of the shelves a different color, or if you don’t want to get the paintbrushes out, group all your books by color on the shelves for a subtle effect. Cute knick-knacks, from gold candleholders to mini cactus plants, also help to upgrade a boring bookshelf.

New life for old doors

If you have an old paneled door sitting in the garage, turn it into an eccentric dining-room table by getting a piece of glass cut for the top and installing trestle legs. Alternatively, use each panel as a photo frame and fill it with family pictures you love. Hang the door horizontally on the wall, add a few coat hooks and you’ve created a personal and eye-catching coat rack for your hallway.