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You might think I have a problem when it comes to collecting picture frames. But, there are so many ways to upcycle a nice wooden frame, including shadow boxes!
Brette: I like it. It gives me an idea for what I can do with my father's purple heart and a picture of him getting it.
Sharon: Thinking about doing this for Christmas gifts. Putting a backboard with pics of family showing out. Then could put small objects in the shelves with nephews etc peeking out over them.
Mindi: What a cute shelf and I love that you can use it so many ways! The colors are so pretty, I especially love the blue, but that is no surprise! Great way to repurpose those drawers Gail!!
Have you ever seen anything so ugly? This was a curb find that lived in my garage to help with storage for years.
But, then I found a window that was perfect to use as a door . . .
You will love the new look!
Becky: You are so incredibly talented! I always look forward to your emails, because you consistently think 'outside the box.'
Thank you for sharing.
Brette: So cute. I’m going to keep my eye out for a winow like that.
Christina: That is so stinkin cute! I love how you used the window!
Wow! This was one ugly side table. Would you have passed on it? Not me. My regular limit is $5, but this cost a few bucks more.. You see, I thought it was on sale, but it wasn't. That's okay, I love, love, love how it turned out!
I think you will be amazed at the magic I worked on this little gal!
Rich: I see why you keep choosing this paint. It gives everything you've done a terrific homey feel - relaxing, rustic barn and you can never go wrong by adding Lulu Mae!
Lizzy: Wow, what a difference! Nice! Perfect for a dog bed. I did like it better before the glaze, though.
Alex: Wondering why you didn't sand anything down (have a bunch of stuff I've been wanting to redo, but haven't wanted to sand or use chemical strippers).
Thanks!
It looks gorgeous, btw!
As a DIY blogger, I love to try new things. I had made smaller bits of drop cloth into chalk boards, but this was on a much larger scale.
You can actually use chalkboard paint on nearly any surface. It works better on some substrates than others. This was a fun project, that uses my unique twisted wire technique for hanging.
Audra; Ooo! So pretty! I love this idea!
Christina: Great idea Gail! I have some old drop cloth I think I am going to try this! 🙂
Jennie: Useful and cute. I like the brush on chalk paint better than the spray. Unless it’s something that’s not going to get a lot of actual chalk use. The canned paint seems to fill in tiny nicks. While the spray accentuates them. I wonder what to do with the drop cloth that I have that’s covered in 60 years of paint. We got them from my husband’s grandfather and we’ve been using them since. I bet a lead test would be off the charts😉
Oh my gosh, I hope you love this easy project idea using unwanted curtain or drapery hooks.
Did you know you can use these small hooks to make easels to hold any small frame, rock, biz cards and more? Easy to follow directions and ideas by clicking the link below.
Jennie: Brilliant! Isn’t there always that one thing that just won’t stand up?
Barb: I have also rusted them (because I love rust!) And used them as they come for hangers on chicken wire.
Vince: Great cellphone holder
Di B: Darling idea to display any small picture, trinket or whatever. Good ideas always come from you!
Did you know, if stored properly, you can save paint for years? But! My paint was stored in a damp garage and the can got very rusted. You may throw such paint away, but not me!
Hop over by clicking below and see my tips and ideas for dealing with rusted paint cans.
Jennifer: Absolutely brilliant! Thank you superwoman for saving my day.
Barbara: Just saw your idea for opened paint cans!! Brilliant! You have some of the most unique and terrific ideas anybody could come up with. I learn soo much from you! Thanks
Lindsay: Thank goodness I Googled my rusty can problem and found this,but how did you get the spout off!?
My window upcycle includes a little more DIY than you may want, so I will be giving you options to make this so easy, even a beginner could do it. 
This easy 'gray' window shelf is really popular on Pinterest. It's generally in my top five projects every week.
With this pictorial tutorial I'll have you making a headboard bench in no time. Maybe you've never wanted to make one, or perhaps it's been on your 'to do' list. I say the time is NOW to get it done!
You can see how easy it is going to be, right?
Del: I'm SO excited! Thank you! Your second photo, of the two pieces leaning on the fence, I've been staring at those exact same pieces for a while now, silly me. YES to fresh inspiration! I love your benches (and everything else you do!) I can't wait to see mine in the garden 🙂
Maryann: You are the headboard bench queen! Can't go wrong with white and stain combo - so pretty!!! Great tip on the emery boards!!
Rodney: This Lady really is good at what she does.Being a friend and neighbor I often get to watch her in action.I Being a retired carpenter have visions of what my projects will look like before I start.Gail has visions also and she is great at what she puts her mind to.Thanks Gail for letting me get firsthand and finish look at some of your projects.😁
I have an easy shutter upcycle that doesn't include the use of tools! Step by step directions to turn this ugly shutter into a mail organizer. You will need a couple of tools IF you decide to add the handy hooks for keys etc!
Brenda: Hi Gail I really love this project! It's on my list of small projects. Thank You:) Brenda from New Hampshire
Kristen: Such a great makeover, makes you wonder where a little shutter that size was in a house? Maybe a small bathroom?
Such a pretty color and that fabric is adorable!
Both signs are cute but I love that the metal since it's a little bit bigger
Carlene: You always do such a great job on your projects and your tutorials, Gail!
Washi tape that is! It's been around for years, but I haven't used it much for my projects. But then, I needed a 'gift basket' for someone special, and decided to get out the paint and washi tape to makeover this cute basket.
NO, it is not a longaberger basket.
I think you will absolutely LOVE this!
Rebecca: Very cute for a baby girls room.
Frances: I really really love this project! It would also be great to hold a baby shower gift! Now I need someone to have a baby.
Nova: that is such a great project! you could used different tapes for holidays! or seasons!
If you've always envied those furniture makeovers on Pinterest that look nearly perfect, I'm here to show you how I gave these outdated nightstands the PERFECT black finish. Bonus! Tips for waxing furniture. :)
A friend got a new black bed, but had these perfectly good nightstands already. She loves the way her 'new nightstands' look with her new Passages bed.
Cathy: These turned out great! I hope your friend shares a picture with the new headboard. I could not locate the brand of 'milk paint' that was used. I love the smooth finish.
Jennie: I love what a coat of paint and wax can do. I suggested that we freshened our 1983 bedroom set with paint. The response, “but it’s oak”. 😂🤣😂 I didn’t win this time. I’ll keep mentioning it. The room is so small and the furniture is so big, I’d like to change to something smaller and less angular. I’ll keep working on him.
DIY Home Sweet Home: It's amazing what a coat of paint can do. They turned out beautiful!!
I'm awful at starting campfires! I've been known to use a couple of newspapers, only to have a major FAIL on my hands. So, I decided to make my own fire starters. They work great!
Alicia: Love, love, love this idea. No waste projects are fantastic
Helen: Love this idea and can't wait to get started!
Nola: One way I like is I crush the graham crackers to make them small crumbs kid u not then I melt the chocolate. Yes it can be done on the fire. And then when I get the marshmallow light golden brown I dip it in chocolate then the graham cracker. .best way to eat them.
I LOVE old chairs. Rarely can I pass up an orphan chair at my local junk mall. One of my favorite vendors joked the other day that he has 2,000 chairs. He was asking 'don't I need another for a project'.
He knows I love his $4.99 ladderback chairs that are in need of repair.
Wendi: This is crazy good! Love it as a towel holder. Nice tip on the emery board too, I hadn't thought of that one!
Barb: You have the very best and most creative ideas!! Love it!!!
Mary: Such a CLEVER idea! Sooo brilliant! I could use a couple of these.
This little lady was in sad shape when I got her. But for very little money, I gave her a whole new look. As you probably know, pretty ceramic hardware can be very expensive. BUT, I have a hack for that!!!
Laurie: Beautiful as always!!!! I especially love your comment about how much stuff we teachers have cut out in our lifetime...I can relate to that. The knobs turned out so well! As always, your blog is my go to blog for anything furniture/fix up. I would love to meet you in person some day - you seem so down to earth and are so wise and fun and entertaining - and all that good, fine friend stuff - I bet we would hit it off! Please keep the projects coming!
JaneEllen: Just goes to show the magic of paint - then there's those incredible knobs. What a smart save. You sure do know your business Gail, Passing on good tips - thanks . Dresser and knobs look so fantastic, love it. I'd love to have that dresser or high boy as it's sometimes called. Enjoy rest of week.
Angie: OMG! I love the knobs and the rescue. This is great!
Ohhh, la la! You will love this vintage suitcase makeover. Suitcases are readily available at thrift stores and fun to work on.
Hello: This turned out beautifully. I wonder if you can use contact paper to line the suitcase instead of fabric.
Marthaia: WOW !!!! So pretty great job & now I must make me one ,,,might add white & pink pom poms on mine....You can send it to me when you are ready to retire it .....Thanks for sharing..
Bliss: I have two suitcases i walk by a hundred times a day, and I always think I should paint at least one of them. Maybe you've inspired me?
I have always loved making things from bits and pieces. As you can see below, I've had lots of spindles, legs, etc in my stash. I often use these pieces to make candlesticks and more! They are FUN and EASY to make!
Christina: These are adorable Gail! 🙂
Lisa: Really cute ideas. I am filing this under my mental 'To DO' list. I have a bunch of old spindles and table legs in the garage!
Tracy: I love the colors. Looks great.
Please don't be intimidated by this project. It's much easier than it may look, especially with my step by step directions to make something similiar for yourself.
Shelly B. Fabulous idea! It turned out gorgeous!
Pam: Yes! I love this color. Thanks for all the details about using the Kreg screws. It's supremely helpful.
Beth: I have two old doors and this is going to be a project for one of them. Thanks
If you have a baby girl or a baby grandaughter, then you fully understand how mamy headbands you can collect. Keeping organized while decorating is the best way to go!
This easy project can be done in an afternoon!
Nova: love how this project turned out! very nice!
Becky: You are so incredibly talented. I love opening your emails because you make so many things from scratch. Many bloggers repeat what someone else has done with their own color scheme and that is all. Thank you for always thinking outside the box.
Jennie: You are so incredibly talented. I love opening your emails because you make so many things from scratch. Many bloggers repeat what someone else has done with their own color scheme and that is all. Thank you for always thinking outside the box.
Years ago, I made this kids bench out of chairs. But since then, I've figured out a better way to make the 'box' that makes up most benches.
This is back then. But NOW, it's so much cuter after I took it apart and rebuilt it using the 2 chair backs. It became a really sweet garden bench.
Kaye: I like the 'reconstruction' of the bench, but I'm not overly fond of the new paint job.. I think a little more detail would help. Don't get me wrong, I like it either way. It just seems like it's missing something in the redo.
Cynthia: Oh I much prefer it in blue--it looks richer and more substantial. The white looks a little too 'Heidi' to me, and I keep thinking if her Grandfather sat on it, it would smash to bits! Now you know three things about me--I love books; have an overactive imagination; and am old! 😀 p.s. Always love reading about your projects!
Stephanie: Oh my that bench needed that! I love what you did with it now, and the color of blue you used is so pretty!
This really simple DIY birdbath project can be completed in just a couple of hours! All you need is a thrift store candle holder and a pot lid. Oh, and some paint!
Rhonda: Hi there. Loved your birdbath so much i made one for myself. Thanks for the inspiration. However, my water gunks up quickly.... i used a stainless steal lid and sprayed with kilz spray paint. Thought maybe there's a trick i dont know about. Thanks.
Alexandra: Such a fun idea! Was just thinking that a table lamp body might also work. Pinned. Gonna keep my eyes out now for a good base.
EyesHaveIt: It had a great look before the paint. Painting made it visually flat, lacking interest.
Marilyn: Awesome idea! I have some candle holders not quite that tall but you made my creative mind kick into gear. I change my birdbath water almost daily and I always have a few rocks in the bottom for the birds to perch on because I had heard that they could drown if the water was too deep. Thanks so much for sharing.
I know, some of you may be upset by this upcycled sewing machine. Here are my thoughts....if it were a family heirloom, I would NEVER do this. But a thrift store find is fair game .
I really think you will love the way it turned out if you just keep an open mind. :)
Hope: Beautiful work! I’m getting ready to refurb my grandmothers cabinet into a plant stand. The bottom metal is covered in rust. Any tips for cleaning it off before spray painting?
Gail: I dealt with a lot of rust on THIS sewing machine stand....
https://www.myrepurposedlife.com/antique-sewing-machine-table/
I hope that helps some!
Lisa B: I'm a vintage sewing machine collector but I am also practical. I bought two 1916-ish Singer treadle machines in their original cabinets (not cheap, they sell for about $90-200 in my area). One is in excellent shape and still sews beautifully, and one is in terrible shape with a warped battered cabinet and rusted frozen machine. I cleaned and disassembled the rusted machine for spare parts (yes, these are getting hard to find) and now have a cabinet that needs a new life. Your ideas are inspiring -- thank you! I plan to restore the cabinet, keeping it as original as I can, but with a new life as a desk/hall table.
Jennie: A whole $25 huh? Do you know how cheap that is? Here in Arizona, $50 - $75 is considered cheap if the drawers haven’t been lost along the way. I do love what you did with it though. It’d be darling in a teenagers room. It’ll sell really quickly.
Weather sure does play havoc with outdoor furniture. Maybe you have some of these old plastic chairs, or maybe you have some wrought iron furniture that is chipping? I have tips and tricks for you to update old outdoor furniture with spray paint!
Tammy: I think the chairs look amazing..!!
Chris: We sprayed our plastic shutters and they came out beautiful . Been on 5 yrs.
Marie: I used the Krylon several years ago. Painted them a medium blue and they are still usable.
Showing signs of wear now but no complaints. It works great.
Did you know that you can print on fabric? This is a game changer for gifts. Think about using a wedding picture for an anniversary gift that is handmade with LOVE! I chose to make a small accent pillow with a french graphic.
Roman: Thanks for the tut! I’ve been wondering how to do this. P.S. I adore the graphics fairy!
Linda: That is so cool, and beautiful pillow. I have a extra printer I replaced with a new one because it only printed when it felt like it. Lol. Would like to try this if I could get the printer to communicate with my laptop.
Hollyflower: Wow! Printing fabric from paper ink-jet printer. This is amazing. 🙂
Have you ever spray painted glassware? You know all of those vases you have hidden away?
Because I've used my glass vases and such, sometimes I even pick up more items at yard sales and thrift stores. Spray paint comes in so many fun colors, but you can get a nice cohesive look by using ONE color.
Nancy: This is a dumb question but...can you use any color on vases? In a magazine it said to prime first. You didn't and the vases look great.
Becky: What an amazing difference--love the vase witht the leaf pattern and great against the red! Thanks for sharing at Beyond the Picket Fence's Under $100 Party!
Taija: I love this idea! I went to the thrift store yesterday, and after seeing your idea here all I could think about was spray painting every vase, glass and urn! Fantastic idea!
This easy custom welcome mat can be for you, or you can make it as a gift for a housewarming, etc.
Using painter's tape, spray paint and contact paper stencils, this job came together really quickly.
Bonus! This project was part of the monthly Thrift Store Decor Roundup!
Alicia: I love this spray paint welcome mat. You break it down for us so wonderfully. I am excited to try this. Thank you!
Jenni: I really like the WELCOME mat. I make the most of the materials on hand and you sure did.
Wendi: Super way to upstyle a plain rug. Love the color and of course, I'm loving the 'W'! Sometimes we forget about the easy DIYs that pack such a big punch. Pinned so I can remember to do this too in the near future!
Are you ready for another great lamp makeover? Who knew you could paint a brass touch lamp? Well, I mean you can paint anything, I guess. BUT, even after painting the lamp, it still works by touching!
Of course, I didn't stop with just painting it, I added a new bulb and a fun new 'shade'. I hope you love it as much as I do!
Kay: Another good one, Gail! The gold cage added just the bling that was needed.
Sharon: Very cool! And what a great industrial look!
Mindi: This is so fun! What an awesome deal and I love the industrial look too! I was thinking the same thing I hope it works after painting, yea for happy dances!
I love collecting cheap lamps! You can get a great deal on lamps at thrift stores, especially if they don't work. I used several of these old lamp bases to make metal plant stands! I love, love, love how they turned out!
Did you know that I generally have a $5 limit on items that I will be re-homing? It gives me more leeway on reselling and actually making a little money for my time. :)
Shirley: These are beautiful! I have several of these lamps sitting in my garage that I’ve wanted to do this to forever! My healthy side hasn’t been with me for a long time so I haven’t done them yet but I will because now that I’ve seen yours I definitely love them! I knew they’d be gorgeous and they certainly are!
Debbie: Love these!! Thanks for your tips and tricks!
Doris: You are, without a doubt, the most talented person online!! I have followed you for many years now and you never cease to delight me and make me smile as I look at your beautiful projects!! Thank you so much for taking the time to share everything with all of us!!!
Pallets make wonderful outdoor furniture. The wood weathers well, and if you paint it (like I did) then it lasts even longer. Worst case scenario, it only lasts 5-10 years. Even so, the pallet was most likely FREE! :)
I'll give you step by step tips and directions to complete this nearly FREE project in no time!
Karolyn: That bench turned out crazy good!! I love the color, the pillows that compliment it and, most of all, the fact that you made it, by yourself by just 'jumping in' and doing it!!! You really inspire me to do just that because I always hate to ask for someone else to make something for me....what can go wrong, maybe re-cut some boards? Optimism here, can you tell? Thanks so much for sharing!!
Jennifer: The orange is perfect. Very summery. As always, I'm impressed with your amazing imagination and craftsmanship. That beautiful bench from nothing but a picture and a pallet.
Julie: I LOVE that you made that bench from scratch, great job! Now why did facebook kick you off? Too many comments?
Do you know someone who loves baseball? Maybe they use to play, and now they just watch? If so, I'm sure they have some old balls laying around, just waiting for some new purpose!
You (or someone you know) can turn these old balls into fun new door decor to greet your visitors .
Suzanne: This is a great gift for a coach. Would like to do make this for my daughter's softball coach. Do you think it would work or are they too big? How many do you think would be needed? Maybe the wire would need to be stronger?
Cindy Love this, found baseballs for $1 each at our local 5 below (dollar store).
Can't wait to finish it, going to use a kid's baseball cap instead of letter.
Thanks for the idea.
Jeanine Want this! Must have it now! Diehard Yankee fan over here. =)
Repurposing, it's what I do!
Sometimes it's easier to take shortcuts, but for this tv stand, I went the extra step to give it a more finished look on the inside. I sort of 'lined' the inside with wood to make it a little more polished.
What they are Saying:
Mindi: Love it Gail! Louie looks so kingly perched on that comfy pet bed! I like the bead board that way, so nice you had the perfect piece!
Trish: I would use it for a TV stand. Looks good.
Nova: Great color! and i like that you can use it for AT least 2 things! i would probably store books in it.
This sign is huge, but you could easily make your sign smaller. I have a huge kitchen wall that needs something substantial. When I made this sign, I wasn't sure what I was going to do with, perhaps sell it? But I ended up loving it so much that I kept it, and it makes me smile every single day.
To make custom signs, I use an electronic cutting machine, either a CAMEO or my small portrait. But you could use a Cricut, or even a stencil. This tutorial will take you through the construction, painting, stenciling, waxing and framing of this rustic sign made out of reclaimed fencing.
June: Absolutely LOVE this sign and it is exactly what I was looking for!!!! Thanks so much for sharing this project and can't wait to tackle this one myself!!!
JJ: Love the lay out of this sign. I have seen many versions on Pinterest, but YOURs is my favorite. You are a great inspiration.
Terri: I love the sign, it is perfect. I don't see anything wrong with. You did a great job on it!
When I was looking for a dog gate, I was unable to find just what I was looking for. Using upcycled crib rails was the perfect solution for my problems.
I needed it to
The design and construction is very simple. Making it versatile for the small/large dog is easy as well.
Laurel: You are brilliant. I'll be passing this along to my daughter for her West Highland Terror (and no, that's not a typo.) 🙂
Julie: Great use of crib rails, I would never have thought of that. Louie doesn't look like he wants to be left behind there though! My little Chihuahua would just about fit through the spaces, and probably get stuck trying!
Sandra: Note of caution: the sale of many cribs have been banned for use as cribs due to the danger to children getting stuck in the rails. Just because it's on the floor and meant for dogs, does not mean it would be safe for toddlers.
I have this thing with boxes, crates, etc. I simply can't pass one up at the thrift store. Generally I buy them not knowing what I'm going to do with them. That was the case with this gem.
This is sort of an in-progress shot as I'm working through the thought process. I always take you (honestly) through the ins and outs of all my projects.
Jennie: This is great. I’m always seeing wooden boxes, or silverware boxes at thrift stores. This would solve the heap of mail on the kitchen table.
Nova: what a wonderful idea! love the tape; it really does dress it up.
Do you do decoupage? No? ohhhh, you should! It's like instant gratification! Seriously it's fun and easy!
Baskets are easily found at thrift stores, but I'm guessing you may have one somewhere in storage. I started by painting mine. That makes it better if you're using a light colored image in your decoupage medium.
Mary Ann: So beautiful..a must try project..if it only looks half as beautiful as yours, I'll be thrilled! Thanks so much for this great idea.
Karolyn: Just plain LOVE it! I, too, thought you had painted it on when I had only seen the picture, but happily found you had decoupaged it!!! I have been finding Longaberger baskets at a thrift shop near me and they are selling for pennies considering what the original costs were. Maybe they'll come back up in value like everything else, but for now they seem to be bought second hand as a bargain....ANYWAY...I am so going to try this and thank you for giving me some confidence to try it!!! Blessings for a wonderful Spring...
Helen: I have used napkins to decoupage many times. I also did a box without separating the napkin. Was very surprised how it turned out. Actually felt like cloth! Friends were surprised and impressed.
I've made 45 headboard benches, and this one is right up there in my top five. I love the way it turned out. It's perfect for a small entryway, on a patio, or even at the end of the bed.
It's small and it offers some extra storage with a bottom shelf, perfect for baskets!
Leann: I think a pretty quote across the back would be super cute! 🙂 I love this simple sleek bench!
Stephanie: Oh now that is a keeper! The shelf serves so many purposes and adding baskets gives it texture. I love Naval Blue, love it. Nice change from the black 🙂 You out shined yourself on this one Gail. I love it against the snow. But your crazy to do that!
Mindi: It is perfect!! I love the shelf on the bottom! I think you scored on this one, but I love all your headboard benches! I still have a stash in my garage waiting for a transformation, I totally want to do another one now. I also like how small it is, not too deep! Great job Gail! And take it easy with that shoulder! I have had to drill my pocket holes on the outside in those tight spaces, but that stinks cause then I have to fill them, but it is much easier to build!
Easy piano bench redo with a little paint, glaze and a Chalk Couture transfer. This quick and easy piano bench makeover tutorial gives all the steps needed to upcycle your own piece of furniture. Don't throw it out, redo it!
Alexandra: This is beautiful! Wow! The white was perfect for it, and I love the use of it as a coffee table. Going to have to keep my eye out for a piano bench. As a musician, I am in love! Pinned.
Nova: what a wonderful refresh for the piano bench. love the color, love the glaze, and love that you left the inside original.
Jennie: That’s a great idea. I never thought of a piano stool for a coffee table.its a great place to hide the multitude of clickers too. I see so many of these at thrift stores. I had to laugh when you said you’ve lived in the same house since 76’. I moved alone twice and 8 times with my husband since then. Now in a small house in a nice city, by my kids and grand baby, I’m never moving again!
I love marrying items, combinng them to make new and useful household items. Old doors are very useful in making halltrees or maybe you call them entry tables.
I sort of collect orphaned legs. I have a regular supplier of legs at a local Vendors mall. Most people would pass up a set of two legs, but not me!
Pam: Yes! I love this color. Thanks for all the details about using the Kreg screws. It's supremely helpful.
Beth: I have two old doors and this is going to be a project for one of them. Thanks
Eliz: I need a bigger house for these beautiful entryway projects! Love it!
Many thrift store furniture projects can be rescued with just a little TLC. First, you should make needed repairs, then clean. I really like to go the extra step and refresh the top of tables, as in the case of this project.
Christina: Wow it looks a amazing! You saved her 😀
Velvet 1121: Curious, did you just clean the paint or repaint it? I LOVE the color on the side of the table!
Gail: The table was green, I painted it naval with my paint sprayer.
Marti: Great job redoing the top. I would like it as a bench, but then, I need a bench right now. lol
My friends and I are sharing over 100 Fugal gift ideas to inspire you. Nearly all of them are thrift store projects that you can make for yourself, or give as a birthday or holiday gift. This is but a sampling of all the great ideas included in this collection.
What they are saying:
Cheri: Lots of great ideas:) Hopefully I've finished shopping but will save these ideas for another year:) Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
I love cabinet door projects! Around my area, orphaned cabinet doors are plentiful! In addition, there are just so many ways to change up any cabinet door! Sometimes, I make several at a time.
Julie: You have a great blog! I'm gathering ideas for my home project's. I currently am on Chemo, but after im done I plan on sprucing up my home. I have a cabinet door I want to make over. I am pinning your site for later use. Thank you for your tutorials 💓
Kim: I love your ideas, everything turned out so cute. Thank you for the detailed instructions! I just made a coffee bar area and was looking for ideas to go above it. This is great and we have several old doors to use.
Sheila: I love your writing style. It's not just a tutorial, it has personality and humor. Did you ever write a blog about your favorite tools? I would love a compiled, comprehensive list of tools that work from a person that has actually used them.
Thank you again, Sheila
If you're saving some branches or small logs for projects, I have some great ideas for you.
Yep, I have a few ideas to share with you. You will need a few tools, but if you have some experience, these will be really easy.
Mindi: Gail I love all these!! The candle holders are so pretty and the ring box, what a cleaver ideas! You are so inspiring! Pinned!
Shirley: I really like the grain pattern on the box lid. I see a bird or dove!
Angie: Love these ideas Gail! I can picture those candle holders on my table during the holiday season...thanks for the idea! 🙂
This simple spray paint drawer project is perfect for a small jewelry collection. I'll show you step by step how to transform an unwanted drawer.
The color in this image is a little off, the finished project is so pretty with the cooardinating fabric and hooks.
Susan: So pretty Gail! I love the fabric idea!
Laurel: Hi, Gail! Sure love your jewelry organizer. xo
Christina: This is adorable Gail! The fabric choice is perfect 🙂
Wow, sometimes I even surprise myself. Many people deconstruct desks to make nightstands. That isn't what I did to this desk. I've never seen anything done like this before. I was totally making this up as I went along. I realize that you may not have the exact desk. But my goal is to encourage you to think outside the box and 'see' what something CAN BECOME.
The next time you're looking at furniture, maybe even in your own home, take a good look at the bones and ask yourself how you could make that with something else? That's what I do. Sometimes I even turn pieces upside down to see what they want to become. :)
Here's the desk in question. At first glance, maybe YOU would say matching nightstands.
Of course, all of the details are over on the site.
Barb: What a beautiful job! I love your thought process. To take two sets of drawers and build something new - what a great idea and you carried it through beautifully. Love everything about it! You're stupendous!
Sherry: You come up with some of the most clever ideas!!! I wish I had your 'vision'. I am creatively challenged. lol Love your stuff!
Nola: Incredible! Love that you did not give up when it looked hopeless! Amazing piece, you are so very talented!
Yes, I repurposed a bowling ball into an unbreakable gazing ball. There are many ways to do it, but this is the easiest ever!!
Did you know BLUE is my favorite color?
This is a project for our monthly Thrift Store Team, so BONUS! You get all these other ideas.
Kyra: The addition of the high-gloss sealer really makes it shine. I was missing that step. Thank you! I'm going to do this to my purple one! My blue one split after being outside for several years. But as I mention above, now I shoved some dirt and moss into the splits and added sedums. It still looks pretty darned cool!
Linda: I love this idea! So simple. Now I need to find me a couple pretty bowling balls all I have is a black one I bought to turned into a lady bug but have changed my mind about that.
Jan: I have 3 bowling balls ready for this project. Thanks for the great instructions!
I first made this indoor pet ramp for my aging dog Louie. He was beginning to have difficulty jumping off the couch. Fast forward all these years later, and my sweet Lulu Mae (5 1/2 years) still uses it every day. It was also very helpful for my sweet boy Matt (cat) as he aged.
Hop over to see how this indoor pet ramp came together.
Jenni: This is the most creative idea ever! As a mom to many furbabies, I commend you. We have a nine year old Golden, an eight year old Lab, two nine month old pups (one Aussie and one terrier mix). We also have a cat, a hedgehog, frogs, and a potbelly pig. While the two older dogs don't get on the furniture, the two young ones have the run of the household lol.
Laurel: This is such a great project, Gail. I love your video, and what a well trained cutie you have there! A star is born!
Katie: Love this project!!! I can see us needing to do this for our pup in a few more years.
I'm sort of known for my headboard benches. I've made so many that I've lost count. It's hard to pick a favorite, but this one is really high on the list. I just love everything about it, including it's small size, the color, and the lower shelf not shown in the image below.
Another thing I love about this bench is the perfect distressing!
Mary: Love it!! Keep being creative. It keeps ya sane. Makes me think that I can do it too. 🙂
Mary
Terri: You are so creative! Thanks for sharing your ideas and how-to's. I enjoy seeing all of your tools too.... My dream build is an indoor porch swing bed..... Have you ever built one? I'm thinking the headboard benches w/some creative and safe modifications. . .
Mindi: Yes, I found you through your headboard bench tutorials!! I am so glad I did, what a blessing in my life you are Gail! I love the white and wood combo, and of course the lower shelf! Makes me want to build one...
Over the years I've used a lot of chalk paint and DIY chalky paint (homemade). But I'm not a fan of waxing, so I figured out a way to use my chalky paint and protect it with a glaze. It's really easy to do, and you can get a lot of different variations using the same glaze, depending on how heavy you use it.
A quart of this glaze goes a long, long way. If you use a chalk paint, and don't like waxing, you should try this. Or, if you love the glazed look of furniture as much as I do!!!
Ronna: I just found you and am so glad. Your attitude and presentation is really delightful. The tutorials are so easy to follow and very informative. Thanks for providing such great info/tainment.
Becky: So pretty! Does the glaze act as a sealer/topcoat or do you add a topcoat to protect your pieces? Thanks for showing your technique using the glaze, a video is worth a thousand words!!!
I picked up an old broken coffee table for less than $4 at the thrift store and turned it inot an upholstered bench! There were a few misteps along the way, but in the end, it all turned out.
Would you have paid $4 for it? It's got pretty good bones, I guess.
Carol: Wow, I love your persistence. I hate it when a project doesn't come together as imagined. I have one in my garage now that I have to revisit that has been ignored for too long. Thanks for the inspiration to keep trying! This project turned out great! Love the button tufting tip.
Deanna: Excellent job. I have a heavier coffee table that I wanted to do this to. Great Ideas.
Eliz: The bench is beautiful. The buttons are perfect! I have a table a table at the end of my bed! I have too much stuff! LOL!
Are you wanting some barn doors? I was, and I needed a specific size--so I built them myself. Wow! I have been so happy with how these doors block off the kitchen. So much better than the awful bifolding doors that were there for years!!!
All the details on how I designed these doors over on the blog. That's the best thing about doing it yourself, you can customize your project to YOUR needs!
Robyn: These doors look great! I like the way that you varied the wood widths and put the diagonal piece across. You make it look easy to get everything to line up so well.
Dan: Was searching for diy shed doors and I stopped when I found this page. What a great idea, so easy to get different widths. I went with 1x8s on the sides and three 1x4s in the middle and bam - 25' wide on the nose. They're perfect, they look great. Thanks for posting!
Rose: So THAT's the secret room....good to have a picture of it, I was having trouble visualizing the entry.
You really worked hard on these doors, but they came out amazing and in comparison they really aren't as expensive as you think they were. If you had bought new doors off the shelf(not even barn doors) it would have cost you way more than this.
Great job on the tutorial too!
This Dollar Store Basket Solar Light is always in the top 5 on My Repurposed Life!!
The prism pieces were bought at a craft store on a coupon or clearance. I can't remember, but they were a really good deal. Aren't they pretty? This really easy project is something you could make in about an hour!
Liz: I did mine but I got all my bling off of amazon because the dollar tree did not have a good choice. I have it hanging outside my kitchen window and love looking out there and seeing it lite up at night and think it is so pretty….I wish I could post a picture of it.
Naomi: Gail, that is so clever and elegant! I was imagining spray-ainting the basket white as well as the solar light, hanging the crystals and using it in the large, east-acing bay window as a night light. Where did you get the hanging basket? You said at the dollar store, but was it DollarTree?
Debbie: Love it Gail! I really need to make some for my outdoor area. Pinning for later!
I took a few extra steps in making my blanket ladder, but I'm sharing an easier way for YOU to make one for your home. They are perfecct for throws, blankets, and quilts.
It's really all in the details. I chose not to use screws, for an older look. But I'll show you how to make it extra sturdy with these nails.
Cheri: Another great project!! If only I was so industrious! But alas!!!!
elicbxn: Would I make it? No. While my house is more 'Early Goodwill' than anything else, I'd love to buy one. However, I suspect my cats (9 of them at the moment) would think it was great fun to knock it over... Oh well.
I got a couple of free ladder back chairs. I'm wondering, would you have painted them?
I certainly didn't want to tackle these by hand, so I reached for my favorite paint sprayer. There was a small issue with the seat. Plus, I ended up glazing the white paint. You can read all the details on my site.
Bonus! This was a thrift store decor team project. . . .
Jo: Love the chair makeovers with the glaze.... have an idea for you that I do alot of and is popular here in NC country.... when I find chairs with the cane or rush busted out (often!!), I simply use men's neckties and weave new seats on them! No screws or glue required, just tie knots! Makes for chairs with a great homey feeling like Grandmas braided rugs!
Bonus: neckties are also great for rugs or lampshades... just whatever suits your fancy!!
Pam: I'm a huge fan of chip brushes too! Plus they're cheaper than a regular brush so there's that! Oddly enough I was just out in the garage and saw my VERY OLD paint sprayer on the shelf that I may not have cleaned adequately before I put it away last time and just tossed it in the garbage. I'll check out Homeright's sprayers!
Christy: Gosh, I absolutely love both options! Thanks for the glazing tips. I need some chip brushes!
Did you notice in the countertop redo project from last week that I still have THIS in my kitchen from 2010?
Who knew you could paint a glass jar, and have the paint stay put for TEN years!!! That's amazing. I painted this jar as well as a knife block that I'm still using in my updated kitchen.
Gaylene: I LOVE your work! Wished I had you for a neighbor your ideas brighten my days just by looking at the ideas you put into place THANK YOU
Sandra: LOVE the Stainless Steel projects, great job and a huge inspiration for me. The kitchen looks great 👍🏻
You may not even know you could paint laminate countertops! I first painted mine 10 years ago, and now I've redone them again. It's sort of a long story and you can read all about it on the blog.
This photo shows how I was preparing to redo the countertops. Originally, I used a countertop kit, but not this time. The paint I used is really amazing. I've been using it on a lot of my projects lately.
Nova: this looks SO good. you did a great job!
Jennie: I love the updated countertops. 11 years ago we were just having a new kitchen installed in our old home when you did this. I thought at the time I picked the countertops well I can always change them. Now that we downsized, I thought the countertops were the same. I keep swatches in file folders for each room as I redo or change them. I looked it’s the same countertops. White might be a nice change.
Roseann: Fabulousness! I'm dying to try this,question can this be down on granite?
Gail:
Roseann,
I spoke to Melissa with HTP All in One Paint. She said it can be done on granite, but it would devalue it for resale of your home.
Wow! You won't believe how abused this poor piece of furniture was!
This makeover involves a little bit of paint, but I think you will approve!
Kathy: What beautiful piece, I was struck at how the lines of the wood were matched up on the drawer fronts.
Therese: Gail - I have 2 waterfall dressers that I want to repurpose. How did you save the detail strip on the front? I have detail on the front and I am afraid if I sand it down lightly it will remove the detail? Any suggestions??
Jessica: Stumbled upon your entry here as I am looking up ways to refinish my own waterfall set. Just picked up two new pieces, and they are in varying degrees of wear. This was a great source of info for refinishing it and not just slapping some paint on there! Thank you!
What do you get when you marry a floor lamp with an old chandelier? An awesome outdoor solar light feature!!
When you paint everything all the same color, it makes it all come together!!!
Jennie: I love this so much that I did 2 from hanging lights on sheapherd hooks. I kept my solar lights in the little cups by using the globes that I found. The sun in Arizona is so strong after a year maybe 2 the solar lights need to be changed out. I bought the least expensive solar lights .99cents each, they all last the same amount of time.
Charlotte: Love, love, LOVE this! I am going to be on the lookout for these pieces!
Jo: Thanks for these very good instructions on making the solar lamp post. I have an old lamp I want to do this with and so pleased to find good instructions.
Baskets are found everywhere, yard sales, thrift stores, probably in your own closet, basement or garage!!!
I love repurposed basket projects, there are so many things you can do with them.
Dianna: Great basket makeover. I like the belt inside, but like the option of being able to carry it. Also appreciated the spray paint tips I am one of those people who have been doing this for years so I would not have read the directions lol
Karolyn: I love this basket re-do and I like the look of the belt inside! But I also like the option of using it to carry, too!!
Terri: Thanks for the spray paint info. The basket is adorable. I like it best with the handle tucked inside. Great idea!
You may think this project is too difficult, but I did it on a whim by myself! Yep, had been wanting to do it for awhile. . .
After I did this, there was no turning back!
BONUS!! 16 more ideas for getting organized!!
Jamie: I love this and will be doing my own this weekend. What type of hinge did you use for the door? Can you open the door all the way?
Ivory: Omg, I need something like this. I will be looking throughout our home to see where we can put a closet. I need something like this to store 🧹, dustpan etc. thanks for the fabulous idea. By the way, I plan to join your fabulous site. I love your Diy’s
Carole: Was actually shopping for a small door to have one built in our new bathroom that we are about to gut. Now I have pics to show my contractor. Thanks a lot!
Do you have some t.v. tray tables? Maybe they are black like this one, or maybe they are stained. In any case, get them out of the closet and make them pretty. Your furniture pieces should bring you joy!
Before
This table was given to me, it was no longer loved by it's owners. But, now it makes me smile every time I use it in my camper! A folding table like this is perfect for small spaces. It's used indoors and out, whevever it's needed.
after
Ann: Thank you so much for sharing! Your project is absolutely darling!
Kathy: I love the color of your TV Tray and I distress furniture because of the same reason. I feel my customers probably are rough on furniture too!!
Beth: I've used emory boards to sand craft projects but never knew about brown kraft paper trick - BRILLIANT! Have a great weekend!
This project was so easy, I put it together while I was camping!
Tips include how to clean, dry and paint an old frame for this repurposing project!
Bonus! Because this project was part of our Thrift Store Decor project, you can see these projects as well!
What they are saying:
Cheri: I love, love, love this!!! As I first began looking at your photos I thought PLEASE let her paint it and not leave it that gaudy gold! Thankfully I kept reading:) I would have probably done white as I love white but the black looks awesome and perfect with that Parisian fabric. I am torn about the crisscross ribbon. I think it would look great either way, but I think I would at least get some ribbon and lay it down to see how it looks to you. I made one of these (not nearly as cute) years ago using an old bulletin board I had and I have the ribbon and really like it. You, girl, are so super talented! And by the way, I am envious of the fact that you are out in nature in some cool air. It's still hot as Hades here! Enjoy yourself. Another job well done:)
Kathy: Great project! I agree--no ribbon--it would detract from the design. That cloth's design is just perfect for that frame. Nice tutorial, too!
Do you love scrap wood projects? I do! I rarely throw away drop offs!
This is a great way to use up those small pieces of 2x4's and larger boards to make gifts or small items to sell at a farmer's market.
The best part?
FUN COLORS!!
What they are saying:
Lena: Gail, I made one over the weekend. I don't have scrap 2x4s (I envy your 'stash') so I bought some and my first bench turned out so cute. Thank you for the idea. My husband didn't understand why I was making it but I just had to try to build something all by myself and this was the perfect project for me. He's so good at building that I usually just let him do it so it was confidence building to try this one on my own.
Marti: Oh, I love these and will have to make some.....I am terrible at building, I even broke my pocket hole tool, but I think I can do these!!!!!
Debbie: Oh those are all so cute.. i love little stools and Becky;s site is one of my favorites.. i love her paint technique but cant quite get the same effect. I recently made a little bench too and the grandgirls are using it to stand at the kitchen sink and 'help' MeMe wash dishes.
Here's the answer to a dilemma! How can I have an awesome shelf system in a closet without making permanent changes? In my case, I needed shelves in my camper. However, some 30 years ago, I needed shelves in a small area where there was a brick wall. No way to secure the shelves.
I know, it can sound confusing, but it really is as easy as 1, 2, 3.
It's all about 1) The Left Side 2) The Right Side 3) The shelves!
You'll understand when you see the finished project on the blog. But, this works for campers, renters, AND homeowners!
What they are saying:
Karen: Love it Gail, Will have to do it on my camper.
Julie: That IS brilliant! And I love your bedspread/comforter.
Using a thrift store candlestick and a pot lid, you can make your own CUSTOM birdbath or succulent planter. I'll show you how, step by step.
Bonus!!
How to get the perfect patina using a combination of paint colors.
Linda: This is so neat! It turned out really pretty. I am always stopping to look at the lamps at good will, thinking what could I make with that. Birdbath never crossed my mind. (-; Thanks so much for sharing!
Debra: This is a great idea and just love it! Now I will be on the lookout for a large candle stick. 🙂
SSH: I want to be inside your brain for all of a few minutes so I can possible get ideas for some things I have laying around here. THE birdbath! I just dropped my jaw on that one. I did wonder the depth too. I know my birds like shallow water. I see yours do too. What an amazing eye you have for creating.. Brilliant!!!
This project inspired Woman's Day to do their own version:
How about a great tip for removing wine bottle labels to make the easiest wine bottle project ever?
Blue is my favorite color, and I fell in love with this bottle. I don't even drink, but my friends saved this pretty bottle for me after a fun camping trip. I turned it into a fun solar light feature, but wait till you see how easy it is to remove labels in your kitchen!
What They Are Saying:
Kristin: This is super cute, I have some of those lights but they are with a battery, love the solar idea! I keep all of our bottles that are that color, they are so pretty! I didn't know you could take a label off like that either, thanks for the tip!
House of Hawthornes: What the heck! I had no idea that's how you took a wine label off! Cute fairy light idea!
petticoatjunktion: I have to try this. Thanks Gail for the idea!
If you don't like painted furniture, look away! This library table had seen better days, and it needed some major TLC.
Sometimes, a good furniture makeover needs a little paint. BUT! I think you will approve of the final result.
Mary: One good-looking table!
Debbie: Love it Gail, the color is perfect! Definitely a trash to treasure makeover!
Donna: Gail thank you so much for sharing all of your projects,they are awesome and you are so creative !!!!
Are you a lover of wind chimes? I have many in my yard, and I can remember exactly where I got most of them. Sadly, they don't last forever.
They end up looking something like this . . .
Some of the tubes were missing, and had to be located before I could even begin to make repairs. I'm sharing tips for what kind of string to use, and how to freshen up the tubes and wood pieces.
Lise: Did painting the chimes change the tone? I have not had good luck doing this in the past, it change the tone from a beautiful sound to a tinny clank.
Catherine: Great job—why didn’t you do this sooner? I threw away the sad leftovers of a nice old wind chime in May! I never thought about “restoring” it! : (
Liz: Gail…you are truly an inspiration…I have three sets to restore, I’ve ordered the thread but gonna need someone to make me a new top for two of them…I also recently found some large GLASS coasters at PIer one that I am using to the windcatcher…I will offer this up…Normally when I buy a new one, haven’t in years but I sprayed the entire thing with clear varnish…It has kept them lasting so much longer, the ones I’m fixing were never sprayed…
Thanks so much for your guidance!
Love the good ole USA? Or maybe Canada? I suppose this easy project could be adapted to where YOU live!
This flag project is quickly and easily made from wooden stakes like these. It's really a great project to do with the kids. You could display it during the red white and blue holidays, or like me, leave it in the garden all year long! :)
Marie: Gail, your garden stake flag is so stink’n cute! You’ve inspired me to make a Canadian flag for Canada Day on July 1st. It’s been fun doing the challenge with you!
Larissa: How cute is that?! Seriously love it and it’s perfect celebrating our nation’s birth. Great job, Gail!
Krista: This is awesome Gail!! I saw these fence pickets at the hardware store the other day and was thinking about how I could possibly use them… now I have an idea!!
Christy: This is perfect for adding a little patriotic flair to your garden! I never thought to use those garden stakes for anything before…clever way to get around cutting! Love the rustic version too! XO
BONUS!
A dozen other ONE tool project ideas. :)
Maybe you think I've been doing this for so long, that I don't struggle? Oh, but I do! Things don't always go as planned. But I do love a good challenge!
I've always loved chair benches. Maybe you remember the EASY red chair bench? THIS bench was more challenging to say the least. But, oh how I love the way it turned out in the end. My favorite part? The color!
Pinterest loves something about this project, it's been pinned 418,000 times!
Toni: I was so inspired by your bench that I had to try my hand at it. I had some chairs that were going to the trash so decided to make two benches. Sized them to some settee cushions I found. I cut the second one wrong so I think it’s destined to become a coffee table but the bench is awesome! It is nearly done and I’m so proud of it I can’t wait to show it off. Thanks for the great idea and tutorial.
Kim: I am a repurposer myself…… and I have a plan in my head, but truely am a wing-it type of person too….. I just finished making a bench out of an old dresser someone was going to throw away… as for me I look at the wood and not the item.. if the wood is still sound you can use it for anything….. I love the 2 chair bench idea… less cost in material, but still get a great look and style…. I am also all about comfort……. I would have lowered the sides just slightly so your arms rested comfortably…… I also love your original idea with the sign… I wish you would have kept that or made another sign that would have worked…. Remember… ” to try and fail is really success if you learned from your mistakes…!”
Cristi: Hi! Thank you for posting your project fail. I am beginning my journey into the repurposed world and its nice to know even those who have been here for a while still have “uh- oh” moments lol.
This bench turned out great! I really like how the boards for the back go with the curve of the chairs.
I love your blog. You have given me so many ideas. Looking forward to future projects.
Whoever thought it was a good idea to make plastic furniture that looks like wood? IF you happen to have something from the 70's and want to update it, keep reading!
I suppose this was some sort of radio cabinet, maybe with speakers on either side? My homemade version of DIY chalky paint primer will stick to anything! Even a plastic cabinet.
Dottie: Hi it looks amazing! I have a vanity in my bathroom that is not wood but plastic, I dont know what it would be called. I wanted to paint it but was told I couldn’t. Can I?
Carol: Beautiful makeover! I’m fascinated by your ability to see the potential in your projects. Plastic console, I wouldn’t have looked twice. Now I think I’m going to challenge myself more when shopping.
JoAnn: My jaw is literally dropping… PLASTIC? never heard of that before… and it looks like real wood – fabulous make over! And Love the chicken wire addition!
Do you have an old ceiling fan that has glass globes laying around? I have the best use for those old decorative glass globes. Because I didn't have an old fan, I picked up my globes at my local Habitat for Humanity ReStore for .50 cents. They were normally $1.00, but they had a 50% off sale that day.
Who knew they come in so many shapes and styles? Have you ever thought about pairing these globes with solar lighting? I have a step by step tutorial for you that will have you wondering why you never did it before.
Nina: I made one! I found the glass shade at the thrift shop for 99 cents and decided to give it a try. Had wire and purchased a solar light for $1 at Walmart. Put it together in minutes and I used hot glue! This is my test run to see if I like it and how easy it was to work with the wire… easy peasy! Love it and thank you! I’ll be making more to decorate my porch this summer!
Kathleen: Gail I am grateful for your video tutorial. I’m a senior citizen and have ALWAYS needed to see and do NOT read and do. So, THANK YOU for going above and beyond (by using video instructions) inorder for others to do the DIY PROJECTS. Once again thank you so much.
Robyn: OMG!! These will look fanTAStic in my fairy garden!! Thank you!
Yes! Who wouldn't LOVE an unbreakable gazing ball. You may already have one in your closet, basement, or garage!
YES! A bowling ball. They are durable, pretty and can be made very shiny. Shiny enough that you can see your reflection. AKA DIY gazing ball!
You can also decorate your old bowling ball. I made my first one way back in 2009, and it lasted for nearly 10 years.
Kyra: The addition of the high-gloss sealer really makes it shine. I was missing that step. Thank you! I’m going to do this to my purple one! My blue one split after being outside for several years. But as I mention above, now I shoved some dirt and moss into the splits and added sedums. It still looks pretty darned cool!
Linda: I love this idea! So simple. Now I need to find me a couple pretty bowling balls all I have is a black one I bought to turned into a lady bug but have changed my mind about that.
Jan: I have 3 bowling balls ready for this project. Thanks for the great instructions!
I had these very old landscape timbers, but you could easily pick up a new one--they're not very expensive.
For me, this was a very fun, easy and sentimental project. I hope you hop over to check out the easy directions and final project.
What They're Saying:
Bonnie: Gail, love it and the initials are so sweet. This would be a awesome DIY for a beginner. Happy summer to you!
Kandice: this is great! A little extra light in the yard is always a good thing!!
Paula: What a great way to use your old landscape timbers! This looks great in your yard and the extra light at night will be nice to have.
BONUS! More great projects . . .
How do you know you've hit a home run? When your project is popular on Pinterest! That's the case of these small stools made from reclaimed lumber.
Sometimes I use my own reclaimed lumber, and when I see a good deal to buy it, I never pass it up! These little benches and/or stools are handy in any room in the house. They're also great for the kiddos.
This easy project uses only wood screws. Only tool you really need is a miter saw.
Susan: That is awesome Gail!!! I never knew what that little tool was used for with the ruler and the level. I have one and now I know! Thanks for all your great inspiration!
Marie: Being vertically challenged, I could sure use one of these in my kitchen. Love it’s rustic charm too! Pinned to share and bookmark because I need to replace the ugly metal one I inherited from my mother that hides in the closet until I need to use it.
Serena: This turned out so cute, Gail! And the best thing is that it’s easy as heck. It’s a great project for a newbie, but a seasoned DIYer could enjoy making it too! 🙂
I am not a hoarder. Well, I may sort of hoard picture frames.
There are sooo many projects you can make with picture frames. Have you ever made a shadow box out of a picture frame? Don't let the other tutorials scare you.
Christina: This is adorable! I never pass up old picture frames at the thrift store! 🙂 They are so versatile!
Julie: I always like your shadow boxes from frames. Have yet to make one myself though!
Mindi: It is so cute Gail! I have been wanting to make one ever since I saw the rustic looking one you did! It is such a great way to use your frames!
Because it was well constructed and I saw a lot of possibilities--and it was only $2.00
Those are just a few of the great tips included in this project tutorial.
Ellen: Love this project & the awesome tips like the brown paper of which I get a lot of, can’t wait to try. The Vaseline- wish I’d seen this 2 days ago. Appreciate your sharing. Ellen
Cathy: Ok, now I want to do this with a hexagon table I have that belonged to my mother from the 70’s. I have a coffee table to match. the problem with the two pieces is they have this plastic inset piece in the doors that I absolutely hate. any ideas? I’d love to remove them but I don’t know how.
Beth: Wow! I love this! I wasn’t committed to it until I saw your fabulous final photos! It’s terrific and your instructions are perfectly clear! Thank you!
Sounds like you need a great coat rack shelf!
This repurposed bunkbed project is easier than you might think. You can tweak it to suit your own needs, or follow my step by step directions.
You will most likely learn something new, or even just take away a helpful tip. After all the years of doing this, I have learned a lot, and I love to share that knowledge with friends like you!
Roberta: Great way to re-purpose an old item. I am sharing this on Pinterest.
Pam: I see some of these great projects you do and I think I need to get up off my rear and get busy!! Great job once again. I really do like that.
Terri: Love this…but then I love everything you do!
Here's my special secret! Suspend them on rods of any kind. You could use dowels, rebar, whatever you have handy. I used a bunch of spare rods from dismantled cribs.
Free bottles and jars make great home decor items.
I'm sharing all my favorite tips and tricks with you today!
Dolly: OH thank you soooo much for the tip on how to get the wine bottle label’s off. I’m assuming this would work for any label-yes? I have a project for wine bottles that turns them into torches. There is copper piping and copper clamps involved. a wick and lamp oil. They get mounted to the back side of a house facing a deck or on grape arbor poles where a table and chairs are set up for an alfresco dinner. They throw a lot of lite,last along time, and if bugs are a problem, just fill the bottles with citronella liquid. Green wine bottles are my favorite to use. I think they look the nicest with the copper, especially after a patina starts.
Lana: I just recently found your web site. I love it so much. I am addicted to it. I have already learned so much from here. I would use the sprayer for everything from cans for punched lanterns , to bottles for tike torches , to lamps and lighting fixtures , to furnature . I am so tired of using spray paint. And the tent would be great. Right now I am ruining my back porch with flying paint. Thank you for taking your time to help other people.
Lisa: I would love to attempt the repainted winebottles project above. Those are gorgeous!!
Simple chairs, but one of the prettiest benches ever!
Do you think you can't build a bench? I say you can! This is one of the easiest chair upcycles ever. I'll show you how, step by step with lots of pictures.
Kate: Man, this is so simple even my not-handy husband could probably do it (under my direction)! I’m going to be on the lookout for three similar chairs from now on.
Allison: Gail- this chair bench is beautiful! I’m completely inspired!
Patty: I love the way your bench turned out, that red is so delicious and would look so good on my porch. I have some antique oak chairs I had planned to fix and refinish, but you know this would be so much easier and less time consuming. I think I just might give this a whirl. Great tutorial, thanks Gail.
Are you looking for a great paint and primer? I've got you covered. I've been using this formula for years, and it never lets me down.
I use red primer under my red paint. It's the perfect way to get the best look quickly! How do I get any color primer I need? I make my own primer.
When you're painting a lot of furniture, time is money. This paint actually can be used on any of your DIY projects where you're looking for a very flat finish that will stick to almost anything.
Lindsey: First I want to say I love that you actually reply to all the comments or at least a lot of them, I didn’t read all of them. I’ve seen a lot of chalk paint recipes and most of them are the same, most people say you can’t mix paint and primer with PoP but you just add more water than most people. I had mixed some in a sample of valspar and found out later it had primer in it, it got thick very fast but now I know I just needed to add water. I’m about to repaint a changing table and I wanted the best primer using what I have on hand.
I’m so glad I found your blog now.
Chris: I’m so glad you share all of your info here. I bought some chalk paint this weekend at the flea market and the lady there told me never to use chalk paint in a sprayer. But I knew that I had seen you talk about using it in yours. I just looked back over you FB page and sure enough found where you do use it without any problems. She also me told I should never use latex on furniture because it would ruin the integrity of the piece. Any thoughts on that? I thought I’m not too worried about the integrity of a piece if I’m painting it anyway.
Do you have an old dresser that needs an update? Just paint it! Seriously, it doesn't get any easier than this step by step tutorial.
Sure, it looks okay-BUT painting this little lady made such a huge difference!
I totally understand. I have a few rules myself about painting family pieces. BUT, thrift store items are an 'anything goes' project!
What color do you think I painted it? Read more to find out . . .
Leona: This is one of the nicest makeovers for an antique piece of furniture. You didn’t destroy this lovely dresser like so many people do with making them another color. Don’t get me wrong I love bright beautifully painted furniture. On some piece it does make them classier.
Great work.
Kate: At first, I thought “No, don’t paint it!” But a closer look at the photos showed that it wasn’t an antique. I consider the 20s vintage, but not antique. Your makeover looks great. Subtle and sophisticated. Thank you for not painting it a bright color.
Lori: Gail, I love this chest of drawers. And the hardware looks great. Thank for sharing.
If you're a homeowner, and have to trim old trees, you probably have some rotted tree trunk pieces.
No? I have something for you too!
While installing a new fence, some trees had to be removed.
Those little pieces with holes in them? PERFECT!
Click here for other UNIQUE succulent Planter Ideas
What people are saying:
Janis: I used this information to plant flowers in 3 hollow logs I have at home. Thank you for sharing this!
Bernie: Thank you for sharing. Those log planters make great edges to raised garden beds. Gives the garden an extra boost of color, a whole lot of fancy and pop, and fun to be outside period!!
Kanchana: Fun idea. I have done a similar project. Have a lot of trees in my yard. We lose a couple every once on a while. Never done the smaller one. It looks great.
Maybe you like small gatherings. Or is YOUR house the one where everyone gathers on weekends?
This pallet bar project is fun to make and use.
It uses two pallets, and it folds for storage.
Don't think of it just as a bar, but a place to serve food, beverages and more.
Show me the Folding Pallet Project!
These are the kinds of tips I share with you on My Repurposed Life.
We all learn as we go, and I try to keep it simple for you.
This portable bar is great for special occasions like weddings and celebrations!
Serena: I absolutely love this, Gail!! Don’t you love when an idea comes to fruition?! It’s perfect and I could see this being something many people do for their own backyards! Well done, girlfriend! Pinning! 🙂
Missy: OMG…..You are not intimidated by those power tools at all! That is one great BBQ bar!
Toni: OMG – You stood in line many time when creativity was given out! I love seeing the amazing things you make! If I lived near you I’d love to take classes! Do you teach?
Thanks for all the great eye candy stuff!
If you're a woodworker, or a weekend warrior, chances are you ask yourself . . .
Yep, I hear ya loud and clear! I'm here today to show you the perfect project to use up scrap 2x4's.
My project actually uses reclaimed wood from an old deck, but you can definitely use new lumber drop offs.
The directions can easily be modified to make other sizes.
I actually made a couple of small benches and a table for the new deck.
This wood was from the deck that was removed.
Read: Simple 2x4 Benches (tables)
Brette: Simple carpentry projects that even I can do. This is what I like. Keep ’em coming.
Adina: Wow Gail – way to make those scraps into great. I love the benches!
Nina: Came across your blog when looking for picture ideas for 2 x 4 furniture. This is awesome! You have definitely inspired me! I will have to check back often.
