As sustainability continues to sweep the nation — encouraging us to take a closer look at our own carbon footprint and address small changes that can have a huge impact — an interior trend is rising in popularity.
Upcycling is the process of giving unwanted products and materials a new lease of life — transforming them into new objects, often of greater quality and higher artistic or environmental value. This new trend is sustainable, cost-effective, and easy to get on board with.
Here, we offer our tips for getting started on your furniture transformation.
1. Shop around for the right piece
Don’t settle for the first item of furniture you see that meets your brief. If you spot the perfect piece on sale in a high street shop, there’s a strong chance there’ll be something similar available in a charity shop, at a car boot sale, at an auction, or on sites like eBay and Gumtree for a fraction of the price. With a little patience, you can find something just right which saves your budget.
2. Don’t scrimp on materials
While there are some things you can afford to be thrifty with, brushes and paint are worth spending a bit of extra money on. Splashing out on good quality paint will mean you don’t have to keep topping up over time and your items will continue to look fresh for years to come. Wrap your brushes and rollers in cling film between uses to keep the bristles moist and avoid sticky residue once you’ve washed them.
3. Preparation is key
It’s important to make sure that you have all the tools and kit you’ll need to complete your project. Clean all the furniture down before you start and take your time — upcycling can be a long process, but it’s worth it in the end.
4. Go big
Don’t be afraid to be a little more adventurous with your style. There’s such a wide range of colours and patterns out there so why not experiment! If you’re low on ideas, have a scroll through Pinterest for pages of inspiration to get the creative juices flowing.
5. It’s the little things
When upcycling your furniture, be on the look out for the smaller elements — such as knobs, handles, and other design elements — that can be quickly and easily changed. You’ll be shocked at the difference a new handle can have on a piece!
Hopefully, we’ve provided some inspiration for your next interiors project. We’d love to see the fruits of your labour. Please send pictures of your creations via our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram channels. Happy crafting!
