Revamping Furniture: Time-Weathering Techniques for a Rustic Look | Lifestyle

The Home Furnishing Resale Trend: How DIY Furniture Refurbishing is Taking Over

A recent study by Straits Research has revealed a growing trend in the home furnishing industry that is set to reshape the way Americans approach interior design. The study projects that home furnishing resale rates will continue to rise through 2030, driven by a combination of inflation-related penny-pinching and a renewed interest in sustainability.

In recent years, consumers have been turning away from big box stores and luxury furniture retailers in favor of thrift stores and online marketplaces. This shift in consumer behavior can be attributed to the desire to find quality pieces at affordable prices, as well as a growing awareness of the environmental impact of fast furniture consumption.

One of the key factors driving this trend is the high cost of home renovations. In 2023, consumers spent more on paint than any other renovation project element. This has led to a surge in interest in refurbishing pre-owned furniture, as consumers look for cost-effective ways to update their living spaces.

The process of refurbishing furniture may seem daunting to some, but experts suggest following a strict order to achieve the desired result. The first step is to inspect the furniture for any defects, such as water damage or chips. Once the furniture has been inspected, it should be disassembled to make the refurbishing process easier.

The next step is painting the furniture. Consumers can choose from a wide range of colors and finishes to achieve the desired look. For those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic, neutral tones like white, taupe, and black are popular choices. On the other hand, those who prefer a more eclectic look can opt for bold, eye-catching shades like fuchsia, turquoise, and emerald.

After painting, the furniture should be distressed to give it a weathered look. This can be done by rubbing the surface with coarse materials like sandpaper or steel wool. The level of distressing can be adjusted to achieve the desired aged look.

Once the distressing is complete, wood toner can be applied to even out the color of the wood. This step should be done carefully to avoid stripping the paint. After toning, the furniture should be waxed and buffed to protect the surface and give it a polished finish.

Overall, the DIY furniture refurbishing trend is gaining momentum as consumers look for creative ways to update their living spaces without breaking the bank. By repurposing pre-owned furniture and giving it a fresh new look, consumers can not only save money but also reduce their environmental impact.

As the home furnishing resale trend continues to grow, it is clear that DIY furniture refurbishing is here to stay. With a little creativity and some elbow grease, consumers can transform old, worn-down pieces into stylish, one-of-a-kind treasures that add character and charm to their homes.