Upcycling means converting a piece of existing furniture or another item into a more valuable product, while downcycling means breaking an object down into its original components or materials to make something else.
Upcycling old items into furniture is highly recommended as an environmental conservation practice as it leads to less pollution of the air and water and reduced energy use. The increasing trend for upcycled wooden furniture has also decreased the need for fresh timber hence the conservation of forests.
Everybody wants to have unique and beautiful interior furnishing. If you like originality, then you should consider upcycled furniture. The fact is that upcycled furniture will never be the same even if the design looks similar. This is because it is made from a different original product and may retain paint stains from the initial item. For example, you can make a book nook by upcycling a cable spool. You may not repaint it, and hence will look unique with dents and paint.
Upcycling styles are limitless as it all depends on the creative ability of an individual. However, some upcycling tips below can make your furniture look better.
1. Prepare sufficiently before upcycling.
Proper preparation means having all the tools ready and an idea of how your final product should look. Prepare the furniture to be upcycled by removing any nails and cleaning it to remove cobwebs and dust.
2. Be creative and imaginative.
Different people have different ideas. Although experienced carpenters may have a range of ideas, it does not mean they know everything. Therefore, you should be thinking of something you can make once you find old, dumped furniture.
3. The style of upcycling should match the era of the piece of furniture.
Different old furniture will have other paints. You should relate your paint with the original paint of the upcycled furniture.
4. Choose good-quality brushes to do your painting.
You can use a clean rag or old item of clothing to apply wax to your furniture. Cheap brushes leave bristles on your upcycled furniture, hence spoiling everything. Therefore, look for good brushes that offer adequate coverage making your work look more attractive and professional.
5. Be bold enough and have fun.
Creativity is never limited; therefore, you should choose your colours per your taste. There is a range of varieties to choose from.
6. Proper painting of drawers.
When painting drawers, always remove the drawer knobs to avoid painting over them and adequately cover the intended part.
7. Excellent finishing is equally essential in upcycling furniture.
To give your upcycled furniture a longer life, you should protect it with wax or varnish. Whether it is a piece of outdoor or indoor furniture, you should give your revolved furniture the respect it deserves.
When upcycling, you should always know that there are no errors or mistakes committed. The aspect that could be termed a mistake is the learning lessons. Therefore, you should never fear getting started on an upcycling project. Gather your materials and tools, have your idea, and get started!
