Want to add patterns to home decor without buying new pieces? All you need is your current decor and a stencil you like. Patterned decor can be expensive because by its nature, it’s more unique. So, updating things you already own is a great way for a fresh look. And when it’s time for another…
Like the look but not sure how to apply a furniture transfer? Don’t worry, they are so easy to do and look amazing. I’ve done quite a few pieces with furniture transfers. From chests of drawers to cabinets… and this one is the smallest yet. But the thing they all have in common is that…
You can add a lot of character if you paint a wood stool. Here’s how to use an interesting design to create a one-off, statement piece. An interesting way to paint a wood stool The piece A customer bought this quirky stool from another trader at Homemade at The Barn. Then they asked me to…
A small table is a low risk way to start upcycling. Here’s how to make over a small side table with a golden wow factor. They’re small so don’t use a lot of paint. Often have straightforward shapes so won’t need fancy tools or brushes. And will hopefully be quick so you can see if…
It can be so easy to give a new look to a bookshelf. This makeover explains the best way to paint pine bookshelves. Bookshelves are great sellers for me. They’re also a good starting piece for a new upcycler as the shape is quite basic. My recent decoupaged bookshelf sold within a week and another…
Have a children’s globe you want to upcycle? Here’s how to take it from a toy to a pretty piece of decor, in 5 easy steps. Globes are a lovely thing for kids to have. They’re fun to spin and there’s always somewhere new to discover. But once you get older, a colourful map is…
Want to know what to buy to start upcycling? Here are the 5 products you need to start upcycling furniture and recommendations for each. I see people say all the time “I’d love to start upcycling. Tell me everything I should buy.” But telling someone what to buy doesn’t work. We don’t all have the…
Author Notes These are the best tools that I’ve found and are based on years of testing. You’ll find examples of how I’ve used them throughout this website. Most of these tools are items that I’ve bought myself. Some I have received as gifts but I only share items that I regularly use and recommend…
Black wax on furniture can have a dramatic impact. It takes something monotone and plain and gives it dimension and character. This footstool was £5 from a charity shop. It was something my parents spotted for me. It’s always great to have family and friends on the treasure hunt too! As I mentioned in my…
Looking to transform your chest of drawers? This pink chest of drawers started out as plain Mexican Pine but wait until you see the result… Free is the best price although that often comes at the cost of repairs. The drawers were missing their handles, a base to the bottom drawer and the backing was…