Upcycling is a new trend that is gaining a lot of popularity due to increasing environmental pressure.  People are realising that we should not be throwing away our perfectly good items simply because they have gotten a little bit worn or run down.

Upcycling basically has no limits on what you can create, and it can be undertaken by everyone.  You don’t need lots of building and design knowledge to come up with a great item that will give you a lot of satisfaction in the process of doing it.

Here are our top tips on how to succeed at upcycling.

Prepare

Make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials needed before you start the job.  Make sure you give the item the necessary preparation it needs before you start.  For example, cleaning, sanding down etc.

Get Inspired

Look at upcycling ideas online and try to be imaginative when you find potential upcycling items.  Try to be creative and don’t be afraid to take a chance on something that will be thrown away. Remember, upcycling is also about repurposing.

Style is Important

Try to encompass the original style of the piece you are working with.  Be sympathetic to the original design for the best results.

Look After Your Brushes

Get some good quality paint brushes and make sure you look after them.  You should wash your paint brushes properly after use with some paint thinners, and you can wrap them in cling film in between coats to keep them moist and performing at their best.

Waxing

Waxing and staining is an important part of the restoration process, and if you upcycling wooden furniture then this is a crucial step that should not be overlooked.  Keep old rags so that you can apply stainers and wax when you need to, and make sure that multiple coats are used so the the wood finish is protected for year to come.