Up Cycling

Up-cycling furniture is something I’ve also wanted to do. Its a fun and simple way of creating unique pieces of furniture since you don’t have to manufacture it from scratch, however you do have to find bits and bobs to use and put together, which requires alot of imagination and skill. Before undertaking such a project, I’ve decided to categorise the types of up cycling in order to further understand the processes involved.

Resurfacing

Resurfacing is the the most simple form of up-cycing and arguably its just basic DIY. The method consists of taking a basic item of furniture and using wood stain, colour or pattern design and applying it after sanding.

Source – http://www.paulawattmurals.com/

Merging

Merging is a fairly self explanatory method of up cycling - to merge 2 or more items of furniture to create a hybrid piece  This method can be complicated depending on how many parts are used , but is often used to create more striking furniture.

Hacking

Most furniture and design enthusiasts who know about “Ikea Hacking” will have some idea what this next method is all about. Most examples of up cycling use this method as it is the most rewarding. Hacking is a complete overhaul of an old item of furniture – totally customising everything. New materials are often added, the furnitures purpose is change, the form is altered and so on.

With these three methods I hope to be posting my own up cycling and furniture hacks soon. If this post has inspired you to do them same, please do post about the outcome and your experiences with up cycling.