Beth Furgurson photos
We sniffed out a few secondhand items with hidden potential and added some fresh and fabulous color. From candlesticks to storage chests, there's no limit to what you can reinvent with a hit of hue and a little imagination, even on a serious budget.
Take A Seat
Snagging an old wooden chair for just $10 at Diversity Thrift (1407 Sherwood Ave., 353-8890) was easy on the wallet. A bit of sanding and a few coats of red paint took it from ordinary to iconic in an afternoon. Cost: $25
Curbside Color
Collecting a few mismatched terracotta pots from Goodwill and the Salvation Army set us back just $10. A few shades of punchy paint transformed them in a snap. Cost: $35 — for terracotta sealant spray, exterior paint and pots
Get Benched
Another quick pick was this $7 piano bench from Love of Jesus Thrift (5503 Midlothian Turnpike, 230-4144; 5158 Nine Mile Road, 737-9494). Painting it a sweet celery tone and adding some sophisticated fabric from Williams & Sherill (2003 Huguenot Road, 320-1730) took this old piece from eek! to chic. Cost: $30 — for the bench, fabric and supplies
Looking for more ways to color your world?
- Cover used hardcover books with colorful craft paper to add a burst of personality to your bookcase or coffee table.
- Recover an old seat cushion like you'd wrap a present: Just remove the cushion, stretch the new fabric across it, and staple it to the underside.
- Switch neutral lampshades with brightly colored alternatives to easily inject hue.
- Liven up your table by adding a vibrant fabric runner and some festive cloth napkins — even colored dishware can create a bold new look.
