Kate Creates: Upcycled Mirror

I've been shopping around for a mirror to hang over the vintage dresser that I purchased for my guest bedroom.  During my search, I remembered that I've had a mirror sitting in my storage closet for years.  I got a great deal on it when I worked at Hobby Lobby in college.  It needed some work after years in the heat but I knew I could turn it into something fantastic.

For my project, I bought some craft glue to reattach the mirror inside the frame.  I also bought some new ribbon and flower details from Hobby Lobby. I also used a hot glue gun, paint, foam brushes, and polyurethane to complete the project...all of which I already had in my craft supplies. 

My before picture.

First, I glued the mirror back into the frame.  Then, I mixed acrylic paints until I found the perfect shade.  I painted the frame using foam brush.  Once the paint dried, I covered the frame with a coat of polyurethane.  I attached the flower details using a hot glue gun.  Finally I tied a new piece of ribbon through the existing brackets on the back of my frame. 

Here is my finished product!

I love this part!

The total cost for my supplies was under $10, which was far less expensive than the mirrors I had been looking at.  I just love how it turned out!  I hope this inspires you to upcycle something in your home!

à bientôt!

Thrifty Tip: Buy Used and Save the Difference

So....this tip actually came from watching the Duggar family on TLC.  When it comes to retail purchases, the family's motto is "buy used and save the difference."  I use this motto when it comes to things like furniture (with the exception of sofas, matresses, and other fabric covered pieces), items for my crafting (picture frames or lamp shades), and books!  I find that furniture made years ago is a much better quality product than the affordable options that are available today.


Here are some of my favorite "new to me" purchases:



1930's-1940's waterfall style dresser. This was a bit more than what I usually spend on my used furniture purchases but unlike most of the pieces I buy, it is in excellent condition and I have no plans to alter it.   

Source: A Hole in the Wall Antique Store- League City, TX

Cost: $150



Solid wood 4 Tier Shelf. I fixed this up using a few coats of tung oil and polyurethane.  Also, I got a great deal at Goodwill on the Malcom Gladwell book on the bottom shelf!

Source: Estate Sale- Waco, TX

Cost: $15 

Solid wood 2 Drawer nightstand.  I refinished it using spray paint, polyurethane, and new knobs (Hobby Lobby has an excellent selection).  It is used for extra storage in my closet. 

Source:  Goodwill- Webster, TX

Cost: $13

 

 

The costs that I listed do not include the materials used to refinish the pieces.  This usually costs about $5-15 per piece.  Still, buying used furniture can save you money while allowing you to create pieces that are unique to your personal style!  I hope you'll think about buying used the next time you are in need of furniture.  

 

 

à bientôt!