9 Tips to Transform Old Furniture

Often, it's hard to part with old but dearly loved items. New interior items are expensive, and finances don't always allow for purchasing costly products. In this case, a rational solution might be updating worn-out and faded furniture.

We offer nine unique ideas that will help revive long-used items and breathe new life into them.

1. Removing Old Coating

If you don't suffer from asthma or related breathing problems, this method will come in handy.

You'll need:

• solution of caustic soda
• mask
• protective goggles
• gloves
• apron
• brushes
• spatulas

It's preferable to remove the old paint layer outdoors or in a garage. Apply the soda while the paint is still bubbling, then remove the paint with a scraper. Next, wipe the surface with an oil-free cleaning agent.

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Additionally, regular hairdryer can help eliminate old paint. Simply direct a stream of hot air at the varnish and wait for bubbles to form, then scrape off the paint with a spatula.

2. Using Stain

It is excellent for highlighting the beauty of old wood.

You'll need:

• fine sandpaper
• wood conditioner
• gloves
• stain
• soft cloth
• varnish

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First, remove the existing paint, then sand the furniture. Wipe off dust with a cloth. Once you've removed the hardware, apply the stain. To ensure even coverage, use the wood conditioner. Apply the stain in several layers and then coat with varnish.

3. Using Milk Paint

Milk paint actually contains milk and comes as a powder. It can refresh worn wooden chairs and last on furniture for quite a long time.

You'll need:

• primer or filler
• paints
• brushes
• roller
• painter's tape
• sander

Karina and Yuri

First, remove the old paint layer and fix defects with a sander. Then apply primer in an even coat. Once it dries, cover the item with the base color.

4. Painting with Latex and Oil-Based Paints

Latex paint also gives furniture a noble appearance, and it can be cleaned with water.

Design by Yana Molodykh

Oil-based paint is not easily washed off but leaves a rich color. However, it's better to paint surfaces outdoors.

5. Spraying Paint

It's also recommended to work with spray paint outdoors.

You'll need:

• paint
• gloves
• mask
• clothing you don't mind getting dirty

Apply several coats of paint to the pre-sanded surface. You can use doilies as stencils to create a rustic pattern.

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6. Changing the Upholstery

Reupholstering a chair seat is quite easy.

You'll need:

• new fabric
• polyester tape
• furniture stapler
• nails
• screwdriver
• scissors
• knife

Remove the furniture nails and staples, as well as the upholstery. It's best to cut a piece of fabric with extra length and staple it at the bottom. Make sure the fabric lies tight.

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7. Updating Glass

Cloudy and stained glass can be replaced with glass inserts.

You'll need:

• paint with frosty glass effect
• fine-pored sponge
• painter's tape

Stick the tape in parallel strips, then carefully apply paint with a sponge to the glass. Once you remove the tape, you'll get a striped pattern.

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8. Securing Moldings

You'll need:

• fine sandpaper
• wood glue
• foam plastic piece
• brushes
• acrylic paint

Remove the old paint from the cabinet, then glue the foam plastic piece in place using a thin layer of glue. Once everything dries, you can begin painting the cabinet.

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9. Covering Furniture

You'll need:

• self-adhesive film, wallpaper or old newspapers
• cloth
• glue
• varnish

First, measure the film length, then remove the protective layer and apply it. Wipe dry with a cloth on top to prevent air bubbles.

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If you're applying paper wallpaper, it's best to varnish the furniture on top for added strength. The material should be applied using double-sided tape or glue.

On the cover: architect Ilya Nasonov and designer Maria Nasedkina