These before-and-after furniture makeovers used paint, fabric, and other upgrades to transform thrift-store finds.
Take a look at how we’ve transformed common thrift-store finds into statement-making furnishings.
The large, open interior couldeasily be customizedfor storing dishware, linens, or shoes.
Credit: Carson Downing
We outfitted the piece with organizers and a modern farmhouse look to create a stylish hub for entertaining essentials.
Installing wineglass holders underneath the shelf makes clever use of otherwise unused space.
A basket below houses tablecloths.
Credit: Carson Downing
Wepainted the entire unitand added dowels to the drawer fronts to add dimension.
They’re attached at evenly spaced intervals using a pin nailerrather than glueto keep them perfectly vertical and secure.
Coating the entire piece in coral paint highlightsthe fluted design.
Credit: Carson Downing
Before: Short Side Table
We scored this low-slung side table for just $12.
Adding legs and a shelving unit for this furniture makeover turned it into a living room standout.
A fresh coat of paint disguised the imperfections in the original finish.
Credit: Carson Downing
This piece featured architectural details that made it too pretty to pass up.
We added legs along with a splash of color and pattern for extra flair.
Cement tiles on the top provide a durable surface and a pop of pattern.
Credit: Carson Downing
We installed the tiles flush with each other to eliminate the need for grout, using only adhesive.
Our step-by-step will show you how to paint furniture correctly.
These tips will help you achieve smooth color and a durable finish.
Credit: Blaine Moats
Before: Boring Bookshelf
This simple shelving unit provided the perfect starting point for a makeover.
Its plain wood finish and bare-bones shape left a lot of room for creativity.
We used paint and a clever shelf layout to turn it intoan entryway catchall.
Credit: Carson Downing
Thekey to this furniture makeoveris to ensure the shelves line up with the bookcase’s predrilled holes.
White paint on the interior stands out against the navy blue exterior.
Before: Stuck in a Timewarp
This wing chair had an attractive shape but unfortunate upholstery.
Credit: Blaine Moats
Updating the fabric was a must to make it usable again.
Seehow we reupholstered this chairto put a modern spin on an antique.
After: Reupholstered Cane Chair
Fresh white paintenhanced the cane panels and the chair’s wood frame.
Credit: Courtesy
Gray-and-white ikat fabric replaced the gold velour.
When picking upholstery fabric for a furniture makeover, pay attention to scale.
Because this chair is tall, it easily handles a larger print.
Credit: Jason Donnelly
Easy Nightstand Makeover
A furniture makeover doesn’t need to be a complete overhaul.
See how simple and easy can have a major impact.
Weused paint to updatethis plain nightstand with added personality.
Credit: Courtesy of Nancy Fallen
Before: Dingy Chair
Thisvintage chairhad a gorgeous silhouette and unique details.
However, its icky upholstery and dull brown finish begged an update.
Bold paint and fabric added eclectic personality to this impressive before-and-after furniture makeover.
Credit: Kim Cornelison
The customized chair looks right at home in this wallpapered nook.
Before: Easily Overlooked
A blah finish overshadowed the beautiful lines of this buffet.
Plus, theornate hardwaremade it look fussy, not classic.
Credit: Courtesy of Jill Sorenson
We used an unexpected paint color for this furniture makeover to achieve a one-of-a-kind look.
After: Painted Furniture Makeover
Eye-catching colors and details make this piece stand out.
We used decorative detailing to outline the dresser’s curves.
Credit: Gordon Beall
We replaced the intricate hardware with sleek metal pulls and knobs for an extra dose of customization.
Finish the look with frames, vases, and lamps in complementary orneutral colors.
Before: Fussy Desk
This fussy French-style desk called for a makeover.
Credit: Jay Wilde
The ornate details gave it a much too-dated look.
A bold paint color helped bring this piece into the 21st century.
After: Colorful Desk Update
Brightorange paintminimizes the desk’s intricate details.
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
We didn’tskimp on sandingand priming to achieve smooth, long-lasting color.
New hardware and silver details add sparkle.
Balance a bold color with a neutral lamp and chair.
Credit: Courtesy of Jill Sorenson
However, boring brown upholstery wasn’t doing them any favors.
Fresh fabric and paint helped their good looks shine.
Using durable vinyl or leather on the fronts for this furniture makeover ensures longevity and easy clean-up.
Credit: Gordon Beall
On the back, a less hardy, but fun fabric adds something a little unexpected.
Reupholstering Tips
Reupholstering furniture can be challenging.
Before you tackle this key in of furniture makeover,consider these tips.
Credit: Courtesy of Nancy Fallen
Our secrets to success will help you navigate your project.
These innovations have left imposing entertainment centers collecting dust.
But with plenty of built-in storage, these gems can find a new purpose elsewhere.
Credit: Kim Cornelison
After: Entryway Organizer
Our furniture makeover transformed an entertainment center into a spotfor entryway organization.
By removing the doors, we created open shelving.
We replaced the worn backing with a new board.
Credit: Jay Wilde
For extra style, we painted the unit in a bright color.
A 1x4 attached to the inside has coat hooks, while a boot tray below catches dirt and drips.
Before: Basic Wood Armoire
Thisroomy armoirewas ripe with storage potential.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
We used a few custom additions and tweaks to turn it into something even better.
This before-and-after furniture makeover added so much space for organization.
Crown molding on top and scrolled molding on the bottom add a touch of class.
Credit: Angie Packer
Thenew light blue coloris calm and relaxing.
A divided shelf added to the open top provides bonus storage for dishes, wine glasses, and books.
X shelves in the lower cabinet are perfect for bottles and rolled linens.
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
Before: Tired Design
This iron headboard wasready for an update.
After: Easy Bedroom Refresh
An upholstered plywood board softens the look of this iron headboard.
Typically used for supporting conduit and pipe, we found these at our local hardware store.
Credit: Edmund Barr
Before: All Worn Out
Don’t overlook ragged pieces atthrift stores.
Many forlorn items are just gems waiting for a furniture makeover.
For example, we updated this tired French armchair with a bold new look.
Credit: Edmund Barr
We painted the chair and stapled an oval of the bright fabric to the back of the chair.
Afterrecovering the seat, braided trim was attached with hot glue.
Before: Dismal Dining Chair
Dining room chairs abound at thrift stores andflea markets.
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
Don’t overlook a piece with a nice structure but unsightly upholstery as you shop.
Often, the seats can be removed for easy reupholstering.
After: Sunny Furniture Makeover
Yellow paintand fabric brighten this thrifted find.
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
Remove the seat, wrap the pillow cover around it, and then staple it underneath.
Reattach the seat to the chair.
Try These DIY Projects to modernize your Decor
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour
