Before buying anything brand new, make a trip to your local flea market or antiques dealer to see whether there are any bargains to be had. Chances are, you’ll find some absolute gems – but some may need a little TLC, while others will need a lick of paint to bring them into the 21st century and help them sit alongside the more contemporary pieces in your home. Here, we explain how to upcycle your antique furniture – and where you should be careful.
Top tips for upcycling antique furniture and homeware
A fresh coat of paint is a quick and effective way to give anything a new lease of life…
Decide what style you want – and stick to it!
Make sure whatever style you choose for the upcycled item suits your home and your personality. Trying to do too much on one piece is an easy mistake to make.
Choose unexpected paint colours
Paint something neutral on the outside and then add a flash of vibrant colour on the inside. It’ll make you smile every time you open a drawer or wardrobe.
Need inspiration? Have a read of our guide to the best Chalk Paint colours for upcycling furniture.
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Get the piece valued first
Before performing any irreversible alterations, get the piece valued. If you think it might have a greater appeal to someone else, by all means sell or pass it on.
Be aware that with all antiques, any changes will have an impact on value. For this reason, it’s important to exercise a little caution: ‘Get the piece valued before you start,’ warns Theodora Burrell, specialist in Fine Furniture and Decorative Arts at Lyon & Turnbull. ‘If the market has really fallen away, it’s better to upcycle something than let it go to waste.’
Proceed with caution
Don’t drill holes in anything that doesn’t belong to you. But, if it does and you have a creative vision, go for it: make that piece earn its place in your home.