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Mastering the Art of DIY | Home Decor Upcycling
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items Breathing new life into old furniture and décor is not only budget-friendly but also a creative and sustainable way to personalize your space. This list should give you everything you need to master DIY upcycling, from the essential tools and techniq...
Sections
3
Essentials & Tools
Step-by-Step Tutorials
Inspiration & Resources
Essentials & Tools
A successful upcycling project starts with the right materials. This section covers must-have tools. You'll also find budget-friendly options and suggestions on where to source quality supplies.
Safety first, you really need to think about protection and cover your eyes no matter the project.
HPYNPES Clear Anti-Fog Safety Glasses 4PK
You really need these on hand when finding old treasures at a second-hand store, garage sale, or flea market.
2 Pack 25ft/16ft Self-Locking Tape Measure
Ensures accurate cuts, spacing, and alignment for a professional-looking finish.
CRAFTSMAN Keychain Tape Measure, 6 FT (CMHT37106G)
At some point you will need to rebuilding or secure something, clamps are helpful as a second hand.
WETOLS 90° Corner Clamp, 4Pcs Wood Clamps
This set is great for the project that has several fixes. You will need more than one clamp always, its inevitable.
10 Packs of 3.5" Heavy Duty Spring Clamps
Essential for smoothing surfaces and prepping furniture for paint or stain.
45Pcs Assorted Wet Dry Sandpaper Sheets
Make sure you clean up after, especially before any painting or staining.
Vacmaster VOM205P 2.5 Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum
Perfect for securing joints, fixing broken pieces, or attaching decorative details.
Gorilla All Purpose Wood Filler, 6oz, White
Essential for repairing holes, dents, or cracks before painting or staining.
Minwax Color-Matched Wood Putty, Walnut
Needed for disassembling and reassembling furniture, tightening screws, or adding new hardware.
Megapro 151TP 15-in-1 Tamperproof Screwdriver
Different sizes for applying paint, stain, or sealant smoothly and evenly.
Pro Grade 5-Piece Paint Brush Set
I love that this product comes with a tray and extra foam rollers. You can get all the projects done with this purchase.
Mister Rui 8 Pack 4" Foam Paint Roller Kit
Makes drilling holes, attaching screws, and installing new features quicker and easier
AVID POWER 20V Cordless Drill Set with Bits
This option is great if you are looking to update your drill or get another. Note this product does not come with a battery.
DEWALT 20V MAX 1/2" Hammer Drill, Bare Tool
Makes drilling holes, attaching screws, and installing new features quicker and easier. This option comes with the WHOLE set up.
Pink 20V Cordless Drill Tool Kit Set
Essential for smoothing surfaces and prepping furniture for paint or stain.
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless 5-Inch Sander
Great for cutting fabric, trimming excess material, or scoring surfaces.
M MEEPO 4-Pack Heavy Duty Box Cutter
Step-by-Step Tutorials
Learn the techniques that turn old furniture into statement pieces. This section includes video guides and tutorials on refinishing wood, distressing for a vintage look, and repurposing items in creative ways. These are all easy-to-follow instruction...
Properly sanding a surface removes old finishes, smooths rough areas, and helps paint or stain adhere better. Learning when to use an electric sander vs. hand sanding can make a huge difference in your final result.
How To Sand Previously Painted Furniture
Wood stains enhance natural grain patterns, while sealants protect surfaces from wear and tear.
How to Stain Wood Like a PRO - 4 Simple Steps!
Understanding how to apply and blend stains, plus choosing the right topcoat (polyurethane, wax, or lacquer), ensures durability and beauty.
How to Stain Wood Products Easy!
From chalk paint for a vintage look to spray painting for a smooth finish, knowing different painting techniques (like dry brushing or distressing) helps create unique effects on furniture and décor.
How to Paint Furniture: A Beginner's Guide
Whatever paint you are using or even stain, brush strokes drive me crazy. It is the part of DIY that gets me in a bad mood.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Chalk Paint Finish / DIY Guide
Swapping out old knobs, handles, and hinges can instantly upgrade a piece. Knowing how to properly align and secure new hardware adds a professional touch to any upcycling project.
How to Install Cabinet Hardware!
Adding decorative paper, fabric, or stenciled designs to furniture or home décor items can transform plain surfaces into eye-catching statement pieces. Mastering these techniques helps personalize projects with creative flair.
Use Posh Chalk Decoupage and Posh Chalk Stencils to create a masterpiece. #diy #upcyclecrafts
Looking to add statement pieces. This technique is easy to try. Mastering these techniques helps personalize projects with creative flair.
Create decor stencils with @ReDesignwithPrima „Royal Brocade” #diy #craft #redesignwithprima #top
Inspiration & Resources
Sometimes, the hardest part of an upcycling project is knowing where to start. This section highlights the best follows on Social Media, design blogs, and books to help you find ideas, troubleshoot common mistakes, and keep up with the latest DIY tre...
Angela is hilarious and is constantly doing a new project alongside everyday life. Does she have any more rooms to make-over?
Angela Rose | DIY and Design (@angelarosehome)
Constantly working on a project and sharing on Instagram.
Home - Come Stay Awhile by Amanda Vernaci | Modern Farmhouse …
Currently renovating a gorgeous 1976 home.
Kelsey + Ryan Mansingh | DIY & Renovation …
Jenn is the best follow on IG, she also has a HGTV show. Hilarious and yet you feel like you are her friend.
The Rambling Redhead
The funniest and real person ever, sometimes shares too much. Always the most gorgeous holiday decor
Mary Beth - thrifting & DIY