Giving old furniture new life with paint is a rewarding home improvement project.

With a little bit of effort, very little cost, and the willingness to make a little bit of a mess, you can turn something less than desirable into a nice piece of furniture. The dresser above was purchased for $50 at a thrift store.  Structurally there was nothing wrong with the piece, the dresser just needed a little help from someone with a little creativity, patience, elbow grease, and of course some paint.

When considering a few things to consider before buying used furniture to makeover with paint.

• Is the piece in basically good condition?
• Can I fix what needs to be fixed with little help or effort?
• Is it surface dirt or something more?

Places to find inexpensive furniture-

• flea markets
• thrift stores
• parents’ garage
• Craigslist
• Freecycle
• your attic

It doesn’t take much to give old furniture a new life.  Never underestimate the power of a good coat of paint.

Photos by Heidi