Whether you're working with old, worn-out furniture or thrifted finds, giving your pieces a makeover can not only improve their appearance but also enhance their functionality in your daily life. With a little paint, some creativity, and the right approach, you can transform these pieces into stylish, practical additions to your home.
In this blog, we’ll explore practical and budget-friendly ways to update old and thrifted furniture, focusing on cleanliness, organization, and overall usability. Let’s dive into how you can breathe new life into your furniture, giving it the fresh start it deserves.
Wooden Storage Bins and Boxes
Storage is often a challenge in many homes, and wooden storage bins or crates are a great way to tackle that. But after a few years of use, they can get dirty and worn out, detracting from your space.
How to Update: Begin by cleaning your bins thoroughly. Once dry, give them a fresh coat of Country Chic Paint to make them look new again. Choose colors like Pebble Beach or Vanilla Frosting for a neutral, timeless look. If you want to add some character, choose a brighter, pop of color like Persimmon or Poppy.
Improved Functionality: These bins are perfect for organizing your home—store everything from extra towels in the bathroom to toys in the living room. A painted bin not only looks cleaner but is also easier to wipe down and maintain.
Entryway Bench Makeover
Your entryway is the first thing you see when you walk in, and it’s also the area where clutter tends to build up. An old entryway bench is an excellent candidate for a makeover, offering both style and practical storage.
How to Update: Sand down the surface and apply a clean coat of paint in a durable, easy-to-clean finish. A neutral color like Crinoline can brighten the space, making it look cleaner and more open. Consider adding a seat cushion for extra comfort and durability.
Improved Functionality: A refreshed entryway bench can be used for storage (shoes, hats, scarves) or as a place to sit while putting on shoes, creating a tidy and functional entryway.
Mismatched Dining Chairs
Mismatched dining chairs are common in many homes, often collected over time, but they can make a room feel cluttered or disorganized. Giving them a unified, fresh look can make a significant difference in both appearance and function.
How to Update: Choose a cohesive color scheme, such as soft neutrals or muted tones, and paint each chair in a complementary shade. This will instantly bring a sense of harmony to your dining area. For added functionality, you can update the seat cushions with a washable fabric for easier cleaning. Have outdated fabric? Try painting it!
Improved Functionality: Uniform chairs not only look more polished but also provide long-term durability. With new cushions and a protective paint finish, they will be easier to maintain and keep clean.
Ladder Shelf Revamp
A ladder shelf can be an excellent storage solution, but over time, it can gather dust or become cluttered. By giving it a makeover, you can not only enhance its look but also make it more functional.
How to Update: Start by cleaning the shelf and applying a fresh coat of paint. If you prefer a more customized touch, consider lining the back with wallpaper for added depth and character.
Improved Functionality: Use the updated shelf for more organized storage—books, plants, or decorative items. A clean, well-painted shelf helps reduce visual clutter while giving you more usable space.
Coffee Table Transformation
Coffee tables are often the focal point of living rooms, but they can easily collect dust, spills, and scratches. Giving an old table a makeover can help with both appearance and long-term care.
How to Update: Sand and clean the surface, then apply a new coat of paint in a color that complements your living room’s design. Not sure what color to choose? Take our Color Quiz! Choose a durable finish like Country Chic Paint’s Clear Coat to ensure that your coffee table is protected from everyday wear and tear.
Improved Functionality: A refreshed coffee table not only looks cleaner but is easier to maintain. Add a tray to help keep small items organized, such as remote controls or magazines, and make the space more functional.
Old Picture Frames
Picture frames can often become dirty and outdated, but they don’t need to be replaced. A simple makeover can add style and cleanliness without the cost of new frames.
How to Update: Clean the frames and apply a coat of paint in a fresh, neutral color. You can add a touch of personality with small stencils or transfers if you want something more decorative.
Improved Functionality: Updated frames are easier to clean and maintain, and they give your photos a polished, cohesive look. They can help eliminate visual clutter, making your home feel more organized and put-together.
Vanity Area Refresh in Your Bedroom
Your bedroom vanity area is a place where you start and end your day, so it’s important to keep it clean, organized, and functional. Updating an old vanity can make the space feel more inviting, enhance your morning routine, and provide better storage solutions.
How to Update: Start by sanding the surface of your vanity and applying a fresh coat of paint in a durable finish. Opt for lighter tones like Simplicity or Wisteria to create a fresh, airy feel that helps reflect light and makes your vanity area appear larger and more inviting. For added functionality, consider swapping out the hardware with modern, easy-to-clean knobs that match the new look.
Improved Functionality: A well-maintained vanity area doesn’t just look more polished—it’s also easier to maintain. The new surface will be more durable and simple to clean, while updated storage can keep your beauty essentials organized. You’ll have a functional, stylish space that helps streamline your daily routine and creates a calm, welcoming atmosphere in your bedroom.
Side Tables with a Spring Touch
Side tables often collect clutter, from books and magazines to loose change and keys. Updating them can help make your space feel more organized and improve your room’s functionality.
How to Update: Apply a fresh coat of Country Chic Paint in a neutral tone or soft pastel for a clean, simple finish. To increase functionality, consider adding a drawer pull or additional storage space underneath the table.
Improved Functionality: With added storage and a new, polished look, your side tables will be more useful and easier to clean. Plus, a fresh coat of paint helps reduce dust buildup on the surface.
Vintage Trunks and Storage Chests
Vintage trunks or storage chests can often get cluttered, and the surface can collect dust, dirt, and grime. However, they can be cleaned up and transformed into both a stylish and functional piece of furniture.
How to Update: Clean the surface and apply a fresh coat of paint. A neutral finish will help it blend with your home’s existing decor while making it easier to wipe clean. You can even add a functional detail, like new hardware or a Clear Coat.
Improved Functionality: These pieces can be used for storing blankets, linens, or seasonal items. By refreshing them, you’ll create a cleaner and more organized space.
Vintage Suitcases as Decor
Vintage suitcases are a great decorative element, but they can easily accumulate dust and become difficult to clean if not properly maintained.
How to Update: Clean the suitcase and apply a coat of paint that complements your home’s color scheme. You can also update the hardware or add stenciled designs for a unique touch.
Improved Functionality: Stack the suitcases for added storage and a more organized display. They offer functional storage for seasonal items, extra bedding, or even books, all while looking stylish and clean.
Updating your old or thrifted furniture pieces doesn’t just make them look better; it improves their functionality and makes your home easier to maintain. With the right tools and a little creativity, you can transform old items into practical, clean, and stylish furniture that suits your needs.
English
Français
Español