Some people are all in when it comes to buying new versus used furniture. They can’t imagine why anyone would take the time to “save” a piece just to save a few bucks. If you’re on Team New, I respect that. However, in this blog I’ll make a pitch for refinishing—even if you’ve never refinished a piece before.

I view refinished pieces like the rescue dogs of interior design. True, they may take more effort, and you may have to look past some initial flaws, but they have the potential to bring great fulfillment and joy to your life.

I’m a champion for all the scratched tables and outdated chairs out there, and here’s why…

Shopping Your Own Home for Furniture Pieces

Going way back to my childhood (and I do mean waaaaay back), I was always looking for things in other parts of our house I could use in my bedroom. For instance, when I decided I wanted a desk in my room to help me not (ha) write term papers—I preferred doodling—rather than ask my parents to buy me one, I asked for the desk in our guest bedroom that no one was using. No dummies and wanting to save a buck, my parents of course said “Yes.” To my surprise they also agreed to let me paint it! Yes, my desire to paint stuff has long roots.

My motivation back then was simple; I wouldn’t have to wait for a new desk and by painting it I could make it mine! This idea has stayed with me throughout adulthood. When I got older, the fun feeling of customization was still there with a new appreciation for being responsible. We live in what justifiably is called a throw-away society. We like shiny and new. I do too. Getting new things is sooooo easy. Click a few buttons and new stuff arrives at your door. And while I’m a fan of “new” in many areas of life, I’ve taught myself the value of embracing “used” over the years.

Extra Benefits of Refinishing Furniture

Among the benefits of using refinished/refurbished/repurposed items in your home, the biggest one to me is the opportunity to get creative. Choose the exact color you want. Add awesome hardware you love. It’s all about you! Another benefit: it’s a great feeling to show off a piece to friends and family, especially when you can share before and after photos. Of course, saving money is always a good thing, and I find refinishing furniture to be relaxing and fun. If it’s new for you, start small. Choose a piece that’s in good shape and only needs a little sanding and paint. Work your way up to more challenging pieces as your skills grow. I invite you to view a gallery of pieces I’ve refinished in recent years.

Heroic Home Remodeling

I will always encourage people, regardless of their budget, to consider incorporating at least some used items for their home. With a few rare exceptions, refinished pieces can fit in nicely with any style and often bring a stronger sense of character to a space. Next time you’re in the market for something new, I hope you take a side trip to a thrift store and check out the alternatives. After all, how often do you get to be a hero and perform rescues in life?

Now, what will you do next to love where you live?

Please feel free to reach out to us at The Redesign Habit and ask questions or simply share a project that you are working on or have completed.