Repurpose. Renew! Home DIY

You may think certain items in your home are worn down, worn out or ready to trade in or trade up. However, a little creative thinking and a few of the ideas below may help you realize that many are worth another go. If you have any more ideas, please share them with us on our Facebook page!

Shoes It’s amazing what a good shoe repair shop can do to make your shoes look just like new for a fraction of the cost of buying a new pair. From new heels to a quick polish job to a new sole, shoe repair shops are a recycler’s best friend. Shoe repair shops can even renew old leather purses as well.

Lighting Don’t ditch your lamp before checking out new shades. Lampshades, that is. A new topper on your lamp can literally light up the room.

Crystal Crystal stemware can be renewed in several ways. Tarnished gold trim can be refreshed by LIGHTLY rubbing with a soft silver polishing cloth, or a soft cloth dipped in a heavily diluted amount of silver polishing cream. Again, go over the trim very, very lightly or it may permanently damage the trim. Then carefully wash and dry the stem.
If your stemware has lost its like-new luster, wash it in the sink with a splash of vinegar. Rinse and towel dry for a sparkling shine.

Chairs Simple upholstery jobs can be accomplished with a heavy fabric and a staple gun. Stool tops are good candidates for such a job.

Wicker Baskets It’s easy to find wicker baskets around the house. Make cheap baskets look chic by spray painting them a matching color (don’t do this to your Longabergers!). Match them to your table setting or your accent color in your room or powder room.

Furniture Oak tables can easily look dated. Consider painting them a glossy white or black or strip down to natural wood for a modern look. Order a custom-sized glass top (these are not expensive) for protection from scuffs and glass marks.

Yard Items Spray paint ornamental iron items and metal planters with rustproof verdigre-color spray. They will look great and last a little longer.

Cabinets Change out the pulls and knobs to update your kitchen with just a few twists of the screwdriver.