Upcycling: What it is, Why it Matters, and How to Give Your Old Furniture New Life
Before you throw out that old chair that’s worn and dated, first think of ways that you may be able to upcycle it.
In an era of consumer culture where we feel pressure to keep up with the latest trends, it’s a phenomenon that also contributes to waste and has a negative environmental impact. Reusing or upcycling furniture is one way you can lead a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
Upcycling may conjure up images of amateur DIY projects, but the world of upcycling is so much bigger and keeps evolving. Continue reading to learn more.
Patience & Gough Furniture
What is Upcycling and Why is it Important?
First, it would be good to clarify what upcycling is exactly and what the benefits of upcycling are.
Upcycling is the process of taking a used object or material and repurposing it into a higher quality item by means of restoring or finishing it. It’s an eco-friendly practice that allows you to transform something unwanted into something that’s useful and valuable. This reduces waste - each item that is upcycled means one less thing that ends up in the trash.
There are many benefits to upcycling, but first and foremost it’s a sustainable practice. By upcycling a piece of furniture you are extending its life, making it last longer, and preventing it from turning into waste in a landfill. It also reduces the need for the production of new items and the use of natural and raw materials - this all leads to less air and water pollution, fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and helps conserve natural resources.
Aside from the environmental importance, upcycling also has social and economic benefits. It celebrates craftsmanship and artisans, while also supporting local and rural businesses. It also reduces the costs that go into manufacturing new items, when materials are reused and repurposed.
From an individual perspective, you’re getting a special one-of-a-kind item.
Burrow
Where to Find Furniture to Upcycle?
First, take a look at the things you already own the next time you’re updating a room or your home. Before throwing out or donating pieces of furniture, think if there are ways they can be repurposed or reused. The key is to look at these items with fresh eyes - don’t focus on what doesn’t work, but look for areas of potential.
If you want to source previously owned pieces for a project you can visit garage sales, thrift stores, antique shops, or antique markets. All are great spots to look for already loved pieces, usually at great prices, that can be made to look new.
Christoph Machet
Who Can Help You Upcycle?
Not into DIY projects? No problem! If you want to upcycle furniture but don’t have the vision, skills, or the time to do it yourself there are plenty of professionals who can help.
Look for local furniture makers and craftspeople - especially those who work with vintage or used pieces. Look for companies that repair or refinish furniture or that create custom pieces.
Many furniture designers and brands also specialize in using vintage or used materials when creating new pieces. So you can feel like you’re getting something new that has been produced with sustainable methods.
At AHG Interiors we have a network of skilled professionals who can help turn your trash into treasures.
Good Housekeeping
Upcycling Ideas and Tips
Next, you might be wondering what pieces can I upcycle? Or what ways can I transform my furniture through upcycling? Keep reading for our tips and ideas.
New Paint
A fresh coat of paint goes a long way. You can repaint wood or metal pieces of furniture to give them a totally updated look.
Reupholstery
When thinking about reusing a chair or sofa, a great way to update something worn is to reupholster it with new fabric. You can even do this if the original upholstery is in good shape, but the color or pattern doesn’t work with your new design scheme. Like paint, reupholstering furniture makes a big difference too.
Switch Out the Hardware
Swapping out old and dated handles for new hardware is another easy way to update cabinets or drawers. Combined with new paint it's a great way to modernize something dated.
Give an Old Piece a New Purpose
You can take an object that originally had a specific function and give it another.
Transform an old chest of drawers into a bookcase by removing the drawers and adding shelves. You can then sand and paint it as needed. Or take a wooden ladder and turn it into a new towel rack for your bathroom, kitchen, or pantry.
You can even refinish an old door and use it as a tabletop for a coffee table. The possibilities are endless.
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