How to reuse your furniture
Reusing is a fantastic way to conserve! Reduce spending. Save money. Use eco-friendly materials to further your reuse efforts.
Work with a part you already own or buy a secondhand part at Habitat Restore, Goodwill, thrift store or consignment store. You can save money and maybe support a good cause.
It is important to start with a piece of furniture that is well designed or has good design potential. Is it in good condition? Make sure there are no signs of rot or deterioration by checking for disintegrating wood fibers. Can the part be easily tightened and repaired?
Does the piece need physical enhancement? Do you need to add sconces, crown molding, legs, feet, or columns? All of these items are available online and at local lumber stores. Recovered items can also be found online.
When upgrading hardware, measure center to center holes to change handles. Hinges usually peel when painted due to the constant movement of opening and closing. If the doors are at least ¾ inch thick, concealed hinges can be used. This allows enough depth to route inside. If the piece is older in style, a butterfly-style hinge looks good.
If the item needs reupholstering, make sure it fits within your budget. Consider the cost of labor and fabric. Eco-friendly fabrics and padding are available online and at some local fabric stores.
Be conservative when choosing your color and finish. The color should reflect elements in your design space and adjoining rooms. The finish should also connect with the elements of your design space. Remember that the contrast makes the piece of furniture stand out, while a subtle color will integrate it. Decide carefully what your space needs visually.
When preparing your furniture, sand down the grain with 220 grit sandpaper to lightly score the surface. Wear gloves, mask and eye protection. Do not wear contact lenses when sanding. If the interiors of the cabinets are in good condition, they do not need to be restored.
Casein (milk-based) paint is excellent for furniture. It dries quickly, sands beautifully and has a natural matte finish. Good quality clay, soy, or acrylic paint can also be used to clean the water. Latex paint is not recommended for furniture as it curls when sanded. When casein is used, the first layer must contain a binding medium. For clay, soy, or acrylic, start with a good quality primer.
Allow drying time between coats. Remember to sand between coats with 400 grit sandpaper, sanding in the direction of the grain. For an aged look, sand bare edges and corners and use a thin antique glaze, especially in cracks. Finish with beeswax to seal the finish and add a patina. Buff with a soft cloth or chamois. It is not necessary to seal a casein paint finish. Enjoy your beautiful repurposed furniture!
All the best in your green decorating efforts!