Refinished Nightstand

Problem: (1)Need another piece of furniture to add to existing set or (2) run into problem during refinishing project.

Solution: Find piece of furniture with similar style/lines as existing furniture (finish doesn't matter), (2) go with the flow, a mistake or problem may actually add character to a piece.

Cost: $34

• Nightstand $18 (flea market)
• Sand paper $2
• Stain $4
• Polyurethane $8
• Paint Stripper $4

When I purchased this night stand it was graced with 4 coats of paint, the top a light pink color. I used paint stripper to remove as much paint as possible when I ran into a stubborn black coat (must have been spray paint), which wouldn't come off the night stand. I used a palm sander to reveal the wood finish under the paint, but still had trouble removing all the black paint. I decided to try an experiment and stain over blotches of existing paint. I am actually quite impressed with the results, as the paint now resembles cracked parchment or an old map, making the piece much more interesting. Although the existing furniture in the room does not have worn paint, the night stand makes a welcome addition. I also used a router on the once plain edges of the night stand to match existing edges on furniture already in the room.

What To Do With Old Trunks

Problem: Need creative storage solution and/or lack furniture.

Solution: Purchase or use existing inexpensive old trunks or suitcases for storage and as a great furniture piece.

In my home I lack storage areas, but also needed end tables. Instead of storing my old trunks in the garage I used them as a temporary entertainment unit to house all of my DVD's, video games, etc and my media players. The trunks add much more character than a cheaply made particle board entertainment stand and also allow for convenient storage, resulting in a tidy look. Stacked trunks or old suitcases also make great end or coffee tables or would look great stacked at the end of a bed to house seasonal linens.

Repainted Hutch

Problem: Old piece of furniture painted an extremely unappealing color.

Solution: With a few inexpensive supplies and a little creativity any item can be turned into a piece full of character and charm.

Cost: $40

Believe it or not, this hutch was painted bright teal when I purchased it on Craigslist.org for only $35. I spent a whopping $5 on supplies to turn it into a stylish storage chest for my sewing room. I will post a photo of the room when finished decorating.