Many ways to Rescue Old Furniture With just a few minor adjustments and a small investment, you can update any piece of furniture so that you can actually use it in your home. Here are a few ideas that work every time.

Update the Finish

It is extremely easy and affordable to paint an old piece of furniture and give it a second wind. Sand off any loose paint or dirt to make a nice smooth surface, and then you can simply prime and paint the piece. Then you can add several coats of a polyurethane sealer to protect the finish. It really is that easy. You will have a new piece of furniture that you can use in any room that you wish. Finding a new purpose for an old piece of furniture, like using an old dresser as an entertainment center, is a great way to make use of an otherwise cast off piece of furniture

Cover It Up

Slipcovers are genius at making an old armchair or couch new again. If you have an old couch that simply does not match your décor, by adding a slipcover in a color or pattern that complements your furnishings, you can reuse your couch or chair and it will be just like a new piece of furniture. You can find slipcovers at department stores, from catalogs and online; and often you can get a really good deal on one at a discount store. Add a few throw pillows to complete the look. You can also make a pattern and sew your own slipcover.

Update Hardware

If you have an old dresser, cabinet or side table, consider replacing old knobs or pulls with new hardware. Look for new knobs that complement the rest of your room\'s decor. You can even have some fun with this technique by mixing and matching hardware on an individual piece. You may also want to customize a piece of furniture by hand painting your knobs and drawer pulls for a one of a kind effect.

Tile Designs

Tile is a wonderfully decorative element in kitchen and bathroom design, and now you can use it to update the look of your old furniture too. Add decorative tile to the center of an accent table to give it a completely customized appearance. Place tile pieces on the door of an armoire to give it a completely new look.