Once you've decided to take on upcycling as a hobby or business venture, the first step is finding furniture pieces that are worthy of being brought back to life. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn't have to be second-hand furniture either – sometimes the best items come from unexpected places.

Upcycling has become increasingly popular in recent years as people look for ways to reduce waste, save money, and create unique, customised pieces for their homes. This eco-friendly approach to interior design involves taking old or discarded items and repurposing them into something new and functional.

However, finding great pieces of furniture to upcycle can be a daunting task, especially if you don't know where to start looking. In this article, we'll explore how to find great pieces of furniture to upcycle and share some tips and tricks to help you find unique and interesting furniture pieces that are perfect for your next upcycling project.

Benefits of Upcycling Furniture

Upcycling furniture offers numerous advantages. First, it's environmentally friendly, reducing waste and making the most of existing resources. It can also save you money, as repurposed furniture often costs less than buying new. Plus, upcycling allows you to create one-of-a-kind pieces that showcase your creativity and personal style.

Top Sources for Finding Furniture to Upcycle

Charity Shops
In recent years charity shops have recognised the trend in upcycling and become a good source of furniture for upcycling. Checking out your local charity shops such as the British Heart Foundation, St Giles Hospice or the Red Cross.

Second-hand & Vintage Shops
Second-hand/vintage shops are great places to find classic vintage items or quirky items with character. Vintage shops are treasure troves for upcyclers. They often have a wide selection of furniture at affordable prices, making them a great place to search. Look for items with solid construction and materials that can be easily repurposed.

Car Boot & Garage Sales
Car boot or garage sales offer another excellent opportunity to find furniture for upcycling. Many people sell items they no longer want or need, providing you with a chance to score quality pieces at bargain prices. Check your local newspaper or online listings for upcoming sales in your area.

Online Marketplaces
If you're after something more unique, take a look online at websites, social platforms or apps such as Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Preloved and Shpock. Here you can browse through items that are being sold privately, so there's always the chance of finding something one-of-a-kind.

You could also try visiting classifieds sites like Freecycle and Nextdoor – these sites connect people who have items they no longer need with people who are looking for them – perfect for finding those special pieces!  These sites allow you to search by location and price to find pieces near you (or however farther afield you’re willing to go). Just remember to act fast when you find something you like, as popular items can sell quickly. And don’t forget to read the seller's description carefully before making any purchases.

Auction Houses
Don't forget about auction houses either – they are an excellent source for finding furniture to upcycle. They often have plenty of furniture to choose from, and if you do your research you may be able to find some real gems.  Whilst auction houses can sometimes be more expensive than other options, you may find truly unique and high-quality pieces that make the investment worthwhile. Research local auction houses and attend upcoming events to see what's available.

Do bear in mind that if you’re purchasing the piece without viewing it in person, these pieces are often ‘sold as seen’, which means you can’t change your mind after purchase unless the item description is inaccurate. Check out online listings well before the auction begins and call to request more information before bidding if you’re unsure from pictures provided.

Opportunity Knocks!
Finally, keep an eye out for furniture in unusual places; think outside the box! You never know what you might stumble on when you least expect it. It could be a piece of discarded furniture sitting at the roadside outside someone's house, or furniture being thrown by family or friends during a house move, renovation or room makeover. A bit of perseverance and detective work can go a long way when first sourcing your furniture – you could end up with a one-of-a-kind piece for next to nothing!

Tips for Choosing the Right Pieces

Assess the Structure and Material
When searching for furniture to upcycle, choose items with a solid structure and good-quality materials. Look for sturdy frames, hardwoods, and well-constructed joints. These elements will ensure your upcycled piece lasts and functions well for years to come.

Consider Your Skill Level
Choose furniture that aligns with your skill level and experience. If you're new to upcycling, start with simpler projects, such as painting or refinishing a wooden chair. As you gain confidence and expertise, you can tackle more complex projects, like furniture in need of repair, repurposing items such as a dresser into a bathroom vanity, or even an entirely new skill set such as reupholstering a sofa.

Think About Your Upcycling Goals
Before purchasing a piece of furniture, consider how you want to upcycle it. What kind of transformation are you hoping to achieve? Are you looking to make a bold statement or create a functional, practical piece? Keep your goals in mind as you search for the perfect furniture to repurpose.

So if you're looking to add some character to your home, why not try upcycling furniture? It's a fun, creative and rewarding way to breathe new life into old pieces while also being environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

With a little creativity and effort, you’ll have no problems sourcing great pieces of furniture that are either dated or damaged which you can transform into functional, one-of-a-kind pieces that enhance your home. Good luck and happy painting!

FAQs

What tools do I need to start upcycling furniture?
Basic tools for upcycling include a screwdriver, sandpaper and sanding block, paintbrushes, a hammer, and a measuring tape. As you tackle more advanced projects, you’ll need additional tools such as an electric sander, a staple gun, or a sewing machine. Start basic and, as your confidence and expertise grows, invest in more and more tools to help you produce a professional standard of work.

Can I upcycle furniture without any prior experience?
Absolutely! Start with simple projects and gradually build your skills. There are numerous online tutorials, videos, and workshops available to help you learn the basics and develop your abilities. Start on a piece you’re not precious about – old picture frames are great to upcycle as they are manageable but give you a feel for the skills.

How can I ensure my upcycled furniture is safe and functional?
Always choose furniture with a solid structure and high-quality materials. Take the time to properly clean, repair, and reinforce your pieces as needed, and follow all safety precautions when using tools and materials.

Want to learn more?  Sign-up to our Furniture Painting Masterclass.