Repurpose and Restore Tips

Everything Old is New Again!
Many items around our homes or found at yard sales, thrift shops and markets could be very useful, but are just in need of a facelift. Simply look past rough exteriors, and you’ll see the potential in almost anything! Carefully judge the items you find or have around your home and be realistic about what you can accomplish with these pieces.

Here are some furniture redo tips for restoring and repurposing some common materials you may find:

Restore It

Cleaning and painting wrought iron:

1. Rust can be cleaned from wrought iron using a wire brush, and safety glasses should be worn to keep flying debris away from your eyes. In a well ventilated area, lay out some newspaper or cardboard to catch the rust flakes and brush with dry bristles until completely clean.
2. Once rust has been completely removed, apply primer specifically for wrought iron and let dry.
3. Paint the wrought iron any color under the sun for a fresh new look! Spray paint works best on metals.

1. Sanding wood makes the surface smooth so paint can be applied. In a well ventilated area, rub fine-grit sandpaper along the wood grain (the natural lines that appear in the wood) until edges and seams are smooth and all old paint, stain, or sealant are removed.
2. Remove dust particles from the wood surface with Swiffer Dusters ^®.
3. To add color, brush on water-based paint or stain or use spray paint made for wood.
4. After the paint or stain has dried, paint or spray with a clear coat sealer (one or two light coats) to protect and seal the color. Allow clear coat to dry fully before touching or reapplying.

1. Cleaning can change the color or appearance of the leather. Always test the cleaning on a small patch of the leather before proceeding onto the whole item.
2. Add a small amount of a gentle, moisturizing soap to a damp cloth and bring it to a light lather.
3. Rub the cloth onto the leather using a minimum amount of water.
4. Wipe away lather with a fresh damp cloth.
5. After it has dried completely, polish with a dry towel and treat leather with a leather conditioner.
6. If you want to change the color of the leather, look for a tinted conditioner or stain.

1. Add hooks to a restored piece of iron or metal outdoor fencing to create your own hanging or wall mounted iron pot rack or use to hang coats, hats or towels.
2. Use metal grates (or other metal pieces that have slats) adhered to the wall to hold photos, decorative cards or artwork.
3. Ornate pieces of wrought iron can make beautiful wall décor on their own. Hang smaller pieces together in a cluster. For larger pieces, place against a painted wall so that the color shows through the spaces.
4. Use a piece of iron trim as an intricate headboard to add a unique touch to your bedroom.

1. Give the worn buffet from your kitchen or dining area new life as a dresser. Start with a fresh coat of high-gloss paint, then install new hardware—we love outfitting them with vintage knobs and drawer pulls.

2. Old or outdated dressers and bureau pieces can all be repurposed in the kitchen or dining area for dish and linen storage. Use paint or stain to brighten them up and coordinate them with your space. For dining area pieces, line one of the drawers with green felt and add dividers to make a silverware drawer. Use an Old Dresser to Organize has even more tips for repurposing an old dresser. An old dresser could also be repurposed into a changing table for families who have or are expecting a new bundle of joy. After painting the dresser to match your baby room's theme and replacing hardware-if needed-simply install padding on top of the dresser to make a cushiony surface.
3. Use sturdy old fruit crates or wooden boxes you find at markets as shelving. Be sure to use hardware that will adequately support the amount of weight you will be adding to the wall. Using at least one wall stud will provide the best support. Attach the bottom of the crate to the wall so that the opening faces outward. Place some in your kitchen to display items, or for storing spices, jars and cookbooks.
4. Jewelry boxes with lots of drawers are great places to store cosmetics for bathroom organization.
5. Take interesting, refurbished stools, benches and/or wooden chairs and use as plant stands in sunny spots.
6. Use an old wooden coat tree to track the height of your little ones. Give the tree a fresh coat of paint and adhere paper cutouts marked with “age” and “date” so you can mark their heights as they grow.
7. Spruce up an old entertainment center with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware to create a sophisticated storage piece. Its large, deep compartments are perfect for stowing away electronics, books and toys.

1. Leather suitcases or travel bags can add to your home décor, plus double as home storage. Use them as magazine holders in your family room or office, or try this clever side table idea using vintage leather cases.
2. Use thin or skinny leather belts or straps as ties for drapes.
3. Use a collection of old watches with leather straps as striking napkin rings.

1. Vintage kimonos and saris are beautiful collectibles and can be used as home décor by hanging on your wall as is. If their condition won’t allow for that, consider making placemats or recovering old throw pillows.
2. Wrap a canvas in vintage tablecloths or aprons as kitchen décor. Pull the fabric around the canvas and staple it to the back so the pattern is centered on the front.
3. You can also use repurposed fabric pieces to cover a journal or update a lampshade. If using older, fragile fabric, be sure to also use a lower watt or lower-heat light bulb to avoid potentially overheating or discoloring the fabric.

Home décor is all about personal expression and style so hold onto these tips and keep an eye out for great finds this season. Have fun and don’t be afraid to get creative!