Explore a variety of creative thrift flip and upcycled ideas, from DIY furniture projects to clever makeovers of everyday items to decorate your home.
Some of our favorite pastimes include thrifting, yard sales and flea markets, there’s definitely a thrill in the hunt for that one of a kind treasure, to take someone’s trash and turn it into a treasure is exhilarating!
Whether you’re looking for thrift store items to upcycle for your own home, or to flip and sell, clearly transforming a discarded piece is so rewarding!
Thrift stores are magical places where you can go back in time and reminisce.
And if your hunt is successful, your goodwill finds will be something you can definitely brag about.
So today, we’ll be doing a little bragging…
We are excited to share some of our favorite repurposed and upcycled ideas with you today.
Please share your favorite finds from flea markets, thrift stores, yard sales too!
We’d love to hear about it!
- Repurposed Furniture
- Upcycled Utensil Caddy
- Upcycled Built-in Storage
- Painted Pottery
- Upcycled Ideas with Paint and Gold Leaf
- Update a Dresser with Hardware
- Upcycled Vintage Jewelry
- Paint a Pattern
- Repurpose a Hutch Top
- Embellish with Vintage License Plates
- Upcycled Color Block Vase
- Update with Salt Wash
- White Washed Pot
- Upcycle with Chalk Paint
- Upcycle a Stained Tablecloth
- Paint a Grain Sack Stripe
- Upcycled Pedestal Tray
- Upcycled Dining Table to a Coffee Table
- Upcycled Sofa Table
- Glaze for a Coastal Look
- Salt Wash Vase
- Upcycle with Stain and Paint
- Upcycled Coffee Table
- Update with Spray Paint
- Updated China Cabinet
- Refurbish with Wallpaper
- Painted Lamp Base
- Restore Rusty Furniture
- Update a Desk with Cane
- Upcyle with Spray Paint and Wax
- Dated to Modern Floating Nightstand
- Upcycle with Fabric
- Upcycled Coastal Tray
- Repair a Wobbly Chair
- Upcycled Bed Frame
- Updated Dresser with Cane
- Modernize with Faux Fur
- Clock Update
- Upcycled Twin Beds
- Upcycled Thrifted Bowls
- Upholstered Headboard
- Upcycled Table with Bleach and Paint
- Upcycled Wood Bed with Vinegar and Steel Wool
- Repurposed Corbels
- Dresser Makeover with Bleach
- Thrifted Chandelier Makeover
- Updated Thrifted Ottomans
- Chandelier Makeover with Vintage Crystals.
- Upcycled Accent Table
- Wire Spool and Utensil Caddy Light Fixture
- Upcycled Chandelier with Rope
- Repurposed Globe Light
- Embellish a Lampshade with Rhinestones
- Upcycled Picture Frames
- Repurposed Wagon
- Scrap wood and Croquet Mallet Blanket Ladder
- Book Page Decor
- Repurposed Dresser Mirror
- Upcycled Thrift Store Vase
- Repurposed Train Case
- Repurposed Vintage Crate
- Upcycled Cutting Board
- Repurposed Candlestick and Plates
- Upcycled Jeans to Fall Decor
- Repurposed Window
- Upcycled Sofa Table to Bed Crown
- Repurposed Dining Table
- Upcycle a Vintage Door into a Barn Door
- Repurposed Postal Sorter
- Upcycled Industrial Bread Pan
- Repurposed Vintage Chair
- Upcycled Christmas Ornaments
Repurposed Furniture
Certainly one of the easiest ways to update a thrift store find and flip it into something extraordinary is with paint.
Not only will paint give you a lot of bang for you buck, but it can totally update just about anything.
With a little imagination a lateral filing cabinet is re-imagined as a Tool Chest Dresser.
I think it’s the perfect dresser idea for a car themed bedroom.
Clearly, upcycling is so rewarding!
Upcycled Utensil Caddy
Transforming a thrifted wood vase into a stylish kitchen utensil caddy is a creative and practical upcycling project.
This simple idea not only breathes new life into a forgotten piece, but also enhances the functionality of your kitchen space.
A light sanding removed scratches in the surface and then we painted a fun navy blue stripe.
Upcycled Built-in Storage
Next up, Facebook Market Place bookcase and dresser are used to create an amazing built in desk with tons of storage.
If the thought of building actual built-ins seems intimidating, then try this built-in idea with second hand furniture.
Painted Pottery
Dated thrift store pottery is easily updated with paint and now looks amazing as a collection on Steph’s coffee table.
See this video transformation here.
Upcycled Ideas with Paint and Gold Leaf
I believe this yard sale dresser has good bones and just needed a little refresh.
Looking beyond its current condition and seeing its potential is all it takes.
For a quick flea market flip, paint furniture the easy way with a Wagner sprayer.
The old worn faux finish on this vanity really needed an update.
And now isn’t she gorgeous!
Once again Refinished easily with the Wagner paint sprayer and sold for a nice profit.
Update a Dresser with Hardware
While this dresser was already in excellent condition, a quick refresh with paint and new vintage inspired hardware was all it needed.
Upcycled Vintage Jewelry
Next up I took vintage brooches and scraps of lace that belonged to my grandma and made a simple bunting.
While this costume jewelry is not thrifted, it’s easy to find at your local thrift store.
Paint a Pattern
Along with a little creativity, and paint this vintage Bombay chest is now a fun conversation piece.
And it makes the perfect statement piece to anchor a Travel Collage Wall.
Enjoying these repurposed and upcycled ideas?!
Please Pin it, save it and share it with your friends.
Sharing is caring!
Repurpose a Hutch Top
When I spotted this hutch top for $5 at the thrift store, I had to snatch it up.
I didn’t know what I’d use it for, for a while, but with a coat of paint, striped wallpaper and French style legs it’s the perfect little bookcase in the guest bedroom.
Embellish with Vintage License Plates
Another quick yard sale flip with paint, hardware and vintage license plates.
The perfect piece for this car themed bedroom.
Upcycled Color Block Vase
This color block vase is inspired by a $160 Pottery Barn vase.
And this look is super easy and inexpensive to achieve with painters tape and spray paint.
Update with Salt Wash
Certainly this console table was in great condition, but needed a little personality.
Now check out this aged and worn finish on this furniture flip with SaltWash and paint.
White Washed Pot
A set of terracotta pots with pretty embossed details are easily updated with a white wash.
Upcycle with Chalk Paint
At first this table looked like it should be headed to the trash!
But with a little elbow grease and chalk paint this piece is now transformed into a farmhouse style coffee table!
Upcycle a Stained Tablecloth
So what do you do with a stained linen tablecloth?
Why of course, make toss pillows with a painted pattern!
Paint a Grain Sack Stripe
No doubt that flipping a thrift store find can be profitable.
This pub table was quickly transformed with paint and sold for a good profit.
Upcycled Pedestal Tray
If you love to entertain like I do, then you’ll love this upcycled pedestal tray idea.
For the base we used a thrifted metal stand that I believe came from an old hurricane and the top is a lazy susan.
Upcycled Dining Table to a Coffee Table
My grandpa rescued this table from a house that was to be demolished over 80 years ago.
For years it was used as a workbench in the garage.
When I got my hands on it, I shortened the legs to use it as a coffee table and lightened it up with chalk paint.
Upcycled Sofa Table
Steph needed a super long sofa table for her sectional that would also function as a spot for the kids to eat their snacks.
Would you believe this was created with 2 old benches and the legs from an old table?
Check out the full tutorial here.
Glaze for a Coastal Look
Scratched, worn and abused, this coffee table had seen better days.
But once again, paint and a glaze transform this coffee table into a show stopper.
If you’re new here, welcome! We’re so glad you’re here.
Let us introduce ourselves, we’re Michelle and Steph, a mom and daughter team who love to DIY and decorate our homes.
Not only are we passionate about making our homes warm, comfortable and unique, but it’s our mission to help you create that same feeling in your own home.
You’ll find ideas for repurposing, creating, decorating and making your home truly yours, while always mindful of a tight budget.
Undoubtedly we love finding ways to make your home look high-end on a small budget.
Plus you’ll also find a recipe or two as we share our family favorites with you.
We’d love it if you’d join our community of doers so you won’t miss any inspiration for your home.
We love new friends.
Salt Wash Vase
Try this quick and easy upcycle idea that looks like aged pottery.
Take thrifted canisters and layer on a textured finish with paint and Salt Wash additive.
What do you think of the results?
Upcycle with Stain and Paint
Certainly, the beauty of yard sale and thrift store finds is that you can find good quality pieces that just need a little love.
For instance, take a look at this Thrift Store Desk Makeover.
Not only is it solid wood, which is hard to come by these days, but with a little work it can become a piece that you’ll treasure.
Upcycled Coffee Table
Steph needed a large round coffee table for her family room, but they all were so expensive.
So she found an old wood dining table with the dimensions she needed and repurposed it into the perfect coffee table.
Update with Spray Paint
Of course scouring the online classifieds is another great way to find furniture.
For instance Steph found this locker bed for $40.
And the bed was in great shape too!
In fact, it only took a little spray paint to customize the bed for Gavin’s industrial bedroom.
Updated China Cabinet
Give new life to an old china cabinet with black chalk paint.
And don’t forget the hardware, it was also refreshed with Rub n’ Buff.
This quick and easy project was completed in only one day.
Refurbish with Wallpaper
Another online classified find, this old dining hutch was transformed with milk paint and wallpaper.
Painted Lamp Base
As you know we are drawn to many Pottery Barn pieces, but just can’t swallow the price.
This lamp makeover was inspired by the Faris ceramic lamp.
A little paint and air dry clay is all that’s needed to recreate this painted lamp base.
Restore Rusty Furniture
Can you see the beauty in this rusty old piece?
Would you believe this chair was one covered in rust?
Personally, I think this chair is now a show stopper!
Yes, rusty old furniture can be refinished with paint.
Update a Desk with Cane
Ok, this desk is one of my favorites!
It was a free road side find and my husband only saw it as junk.
He didn’t want me bringing it home and thought it couldn’t be saved.
But I knew it was a solid wood desk, and I believe everything can be made useful once again.
It may be my favorite just because I had to prove him wrong.
The oak trim and cane, along with the ebony stain really make this desk a show stopper now!
Upcyle with Spray Paint and Wax
Take a pair of dated brass lamps and give them a simple update with black spray paint and white wax.
This easy project can be completed in no time.
Dated to Modern Floating Nightstand
A floating nightstand was necessary for this locker style bed with drawers.
And with a tight $500 budget to makeover this bedroom for Aiden, that mean we’d need to upcycle or repurpose a piece.
I think it’s perfect for his bedroom and looks amazing!
Upcycle with Fabric
These fabric bar stools were once dirty and worn, but the actual frames were in great condition.
Now the bar stools look up to date and are so chic with new fabric, chalk paint and a little wax.
Certainly this chair has such beautiful lines, but definitely needs some loving!
You can see here how we reupholstered a chair with a French country, Boho flair.
Are you loving these upcycled Ideas?
Let’s stay connected! Follow us on social media!
Upcycled Coastal Tray
This beautiful tray is a quick and easy project that can be made in under 30 minutes.
And another amazing thrift store find, with leftover cane and wood beads, it now looks like a chic tray you may find and Serena and Lily.
Repair a Wobbly Chair
Another great yard sale find, two vintage chairs for only $5!
However, they were a little wobbly.
Not only did these chairs get an update with fabric, but we also repaired it, so now it’s good and sturdy.
Upcycled Bed Frame
Have you ever stumbled upon a hidden gem while thrifting or on Facebook Marketplace?
That’s exactly what happened when we snagged a $50 solid wood bed frame from the Marketplace.
With determination and a vision in mind, we transformed this rustic bed frame into a modern masterpiece that’s perfect for Gavin’s room.
Updated Dresser with Cane
Keeping with the modern vibe for Gavin’s room, this handcrafted dresser build by my grandpa has seen many makeovers with paint.
But we had another vision with the family heirloom and I think grandpa would be pleased with our dresser makeover with cane.
Modernize with Faux Fur
Certainly the bones of this ottoman were in perfect condition, however the fabric really dated it.
But, with a fun faux fur fabric choice it’s now so chic!
Clock Update
I immediately fell in love with the lines of this pretty clock, but the finish was dirty and chipped.
This quick and easy makeover only requires black paint and Rub n’ Buff.
Upcycled Twin Beds
A pair of vintage French provincial twin beds are upcycled into a daybed.
While these beds originally were not upholstered, but we had another vision for them.
I mean just take a look at the transformation!
Don’t you think this French style daybed looks amazing?!
Upcycled Thrifted Bowls
While thrifting we recently spotted a set of seven wooden bowls.
It’s super easy and requires no special tools!
In fact, you can craft a footed bowl in less than an hour with a couple of wooden bowls, wood glue and paint, if desired.
Upholstered Headboard
This 4 poster bed frame was given a simple makeover with fabric.
And now this upholstered bed looks amazing!
Upcycled Table with Bleach and Paint
Would you believe this table was a free road side find?
It had definitely seen better days, but we could see the potential.
This solid wood dining table looks absolutely gorgeous now!
With white farmhouse legs and apron and the beautiful natural finished top, clearly it’s a piece worth saving!
Upcycled Wood Bed with Vinegar and Steel Wool
This bedroom set had been in the basement for years, just needing an updated finish.
And this furniture flip has been a favorite of our readers!
Steph had been eyeing a bed at Restoration Hardware, but with a price tag of nearly $3000, it clearly wasn’t in her budget.
While there are stains you can purchase to create this weathered finish, often they look fake.
Check out our method to Weather Wood with a Vinegar and Steel Wool Stain.
Repurposed Corbels
Do you find you’re drawn to old, chippy, vintage items?
Maybe you love the worn character and are drawn to the history of the piece?
For Steph and I, this is always the case!
When Steph first laid eyes on these old, broken corbels she knew they were coming home with her!
She didn’t have a specific need for them, or even have an idea of where she’d use them.
While in rough shape, she restored the corbels and repurposed them on her fireplace mantle.
Dresser Makeover with Bleach
Take a look at this yard sale find with beautiful French Provincial lines.
It had been painted, however it was done poorly.
So we knew we’d be stripping off the finish.
Once the paint was removed, we saw the beauty of the natural wood finish of this stunning dresser.
Thrifted Chandelier Makeover
Certainly dated shiny brass light fixtures can easily be found at any thrift store.
With a little creative painting and natural wood beads, it has a French country, Boho vibe.
Updated Thrifted Ottomans
New fabric and feet revived two dated thrift store ottomans.
We definitely wanted to keep this project quick and easy, so you’ll find that you won’t need expert sewing skills to complete these ottomans.
Chandelier Makeover with Vintage Crystals.
Try updating a modern thrift store light fixture with vintage crystals.
Now this chandelier is so stylish and certainly unexpected in a laundry room!
Upcycled Accent Table
This simple accent table is a chic addition to any room, costs practically nothing to make and is a fun little DIY project.
Can you guess what we used to create this table?!
Would you believe a floor lamp and wooden tray?!
I believe it’s the perfect side table in my modern cottage master bathroom.
Wire Spool and Utensil Caddy Light Fixture
Searching for a more industrial looking light fixture for Gavin’s room, thrifted Ikea utensil caddies are used to create this unique light fixture.
Clearly, it’s the perfect light fixture for this industrial teen bedroom.
Upcycled Chandelier with Rope
Certainly, this Facebook Market Place orb chandelier was great as is.
However with a little jute, it now has the casual coastal style that fits perfectly in Steph’s coastal bedroom.
Repurposed Globe Light
Personally I think this lamp is such a fun conversation piece!
While visiting my favorite thrift store I spotted the lamp and globe.
Now this lamp shade was super easy to make.
First the globe was cut in half with a saw, then a leather strip was adhered to the cut edge.
Finally I placed the globe on the lamp base.
Super easy!
Embellish a Lampshade with Rhinestones
While this Vintage Lamp Makeover was not a flea market find, however it was my grandmother’s lamp, a wedding gift from her in-laws.
Certainly the lampshade needed a little refresh.
I love the transformation of this family heirloom.
Upcycled Picture Frames
Frames of course are always a great find at your local thrift store.
Not only are they easy to transform with paint, but they are so economical to update.
Almost every frame on this gallery wall is thrifted and a few are given that aged worn look with SaltWash.
Repurposed Wagon
Have you got an old red wagon lying around?
Then upcyle it into a fun wagon shelf, the perfect accessory for Aiden’s car themed bedroom.
Scrap wood and Croquet Mallet Blanket Ladder
So what do you do with some old croquet mallets and scrap wood?
Of course, you make a blanket ladder.
While only the handles were used for this project, we’re saving the mallets for another project.
Book Page Decor
Mat and frame pages from a beginner reading book for cute art in the toy room.
Repurposed Dresser Mirror
You just can’t go wrong with a beautiful vintage mirror.
In fact, I love the pitted and imperfect finish of this mirror.
Removing the large plate glass mirror and adding a vintage mirror adds so much character to this Bathroom Remodel on a Budget.
Upcycled Thrift Store Vase
Glass vases are also easy to find at your favorite thrift store or flea market.
Plaster of Paris and paint give this old glass vase a whole new look!
It’s certainly cheap and easy DIY home decor.
An old ceramic vase certainly gets a new look with drywall mud.
That worn aged textured pottery is a look that we both love and it’s so easy to do.
Repurposed Train Case
Vintage suitcases and train cases are a little more difficult to come by.
In fact, this one was purchased at a local antique store.
But isn’t it pretty as a container for a sunflower floral arrangement for fall?!
Repurposed Vintage Crate
And a vintage canned goods box makes a great planter for summer flowers.
Upcycled Cutting Board
With a little creativity, just about any thrift store find can be transformed into beautiful home decor.
This footed tray was created from an old cutting board, candle cups and half wooden balls for fresh summer decor.
Repurposed Candlestick and Plates
Tiered trays are all the rage right now, but to buy one can cost you a pretty penny.
Would you believe we were able to make this beautiful Tiered Tray for Only $5!
A wooden candlestick, and 2 thrift store plates, glue and paint is all it takes.
Upcycled Jeans to Fall Decor
So, what do you do with an old trick or treat bucket and jeans?
Why of course you turn it unto fun fall pumpkin decor!
Certainly this is one of our favorite projects!
What do you think?!
Repurposed Window
Decorating with old windows certainly is popular.
Of course there are so many ways to use them.
A painted flag in the shape of the United States is the perfect patriotic decor.
Upcycled Sofa Table to Bed Crown
Would you have guessed that this bed crown was once old sofa table?!
It makes the perfect bed crown and canopy for a special princess.
Although Ellie will tell you that she feels like she’s camping in a tent now.
It’s all good! She still feels special!
Repurposed Dining Table
Giving new life to old wood dining table is nothing new, but maybe not so common in the laundry room.
However, an old wood table top makes the perfect laundry room fold table.
Next a $5 vintage door gets new life in the bathroom.
Upcycle a Vintage Door into a Barn Door
With a little Bondo, paint and hardware this $5 vintage door becomes the perfect barn door in this Jack and Jill bathroom.
Not only is it affordable, but also so trendy!
Repurposed Postal Sorter
Take a look at this vintage postal sorter that we picked up for $40.
It only required a little cleaning and attaching a piece of wood to make a simple desk.
Upcycled Industrial Bread Pan
Have you ever thought of an old commercial bread pan as decor or storage?
I believe it does both in my craft room.
It not only keeps my ink pads organized, but it also looks great on my wall.
Repurposed Vintage Chair
Certainly a chippy old wooden chair is the perfect addition on my back porch.
It makes a beautiful place to display plants.
No makeover necessary here, just enjoy the old worn finish as is.
Upcycled Christmas Ornaments
I wanted to incorporate my grandma’s vintage costume jewelry into my Christmas tree, but knew alone they’d get lost in the tree.
Then the inspiration hit me, use my vintage door plates along with the vintage jewelry
I think these vintage door plated ornaments look so pretty on my tree.
Check out the full tutorial here.
Are you enjoying these repurposed and upcycled ideas?!
What’s your favorite upcycled ideas you’d like to add to your home?
Have you upcycled projects in your home?
Please share your ideas with us!
Pin it and save it for later.
Share it with your friends.
Sharing is caring!
Did you find a little inspiration?
Are you ready to start scavenging for treasures, finding your own upcycled favorites?
Do you have a favorite upcycled idea?
What special treasures have you found at the flea market or thrifting?
Please share with us, we’d love to hear all about it!
Please PIN and share with your friends!
Sharing is caring!
If you’re new here, WELCOME!
We love meeting new people.
Say hi in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
You can also learn more about us here.
Thanks for stopping by Sunny Side Design.
Empowering you to create a home you love!
Be sure to follow us on Pinterest for even more home decor and DIY ideas.
To see what we are working on before it’s on our blog, follow us on Instagram.
You will also find our video tutorials on our YouTube channel.
Just signed up for your emails and I am following you on Pinterest. Don’t you think that Flea Market savvy is almost the same as the “new” trend of Vintage Maximalism?
That is basically my decor look. Lots of stuff, that I adore and oooh the hunt for those treasures too! Best of all, my hubby loves to hunt too.
Thanks for following along Suzan. We love thrifting, flea and vintage markets and yard sales. In a couple of weeks we are heading to our favorite Vintage market and we can’t wait to share what we find. Truly someone’s junk is another man’s treasure! You’re so lucky your hubby enjoys is with you. I really hate to bring my hubby with me he moans and groans about me bringing home another treasure. Enjoy the hunt!!
wow!
Thank you Harper, we are so happy you enjoy these ideas.