The top 10 blog posts of the year. The posts that have captured imaginations, prompted comments and even occasionally caused anger. This list is based on the posts that have been read the most. By subscribers, regular readers or the casual pop-by-er. You may see some on this list that you haven’t seen before. I’d…
2021 in numbers. It’s the year this blog began. So, here’s a summary of the year and its significant numbers, to reflect on. If you’ve read my story, you’ll know how Tea and Forget-me-nots came about. December is a good time for reflection. Whether to create a new year’s resolution or to just think about…
It can be so easy to give a new look to a bookshelf. This makeover explains the best way to paint pine bookshelves. Bookshelves are great sellers for me. They’re also a good starting piece for a new upcycler as the shape is quite basic. My recent decoupaged bookshelf sold within a week and another…
White wax on furniture creates a faded or whitewashed look over paint or natural wood. It’s a simple process and can have a dramatic impact. My friend, Katherine, asked if I would like this mirror before she put it on Freecycle. Of course, I said yes because it had pretty details and I thought it…
Distressing furniture is messy. This makeover is how to create mess-free distressed furniture with a simple household item. It’s so easy you’ll be able to do it before you can say ‘shabby chic’. I found this wine cabinet while I was doing a furniture painting course. The one where I painted these blue and copper…
And the reason you won’t guess is because even I can’t quite believe it. I started upcycling in 2018 and this was my first ever project. I excitedly bought a peacock stencil and some pens for glass and mirrors. It’s funny that what I’m most known for are my flower and bird furniture pieces and…
Author Notes These are the best tools that I’ve found and are based on years of testing. You’ll find examples of how I’ve used them throughout this website. Most of these tools are items that I’ve bought myself. Some I have received as gifts but I only share items that I regularly use and recommend…
There’s no need to spend money before looking for quality free furniture. Here are 5 places and simple tools to find free furniture to upcycle. If you’re starting upcycling, free pieces of furniture are a great way to do a test run. Not the family heirloom. The upcycling movement has kicked up a notch as…
Know a fan who would love themed Star Wars furniture? Here’s how to make a chest of drawers using Star Wars wallpaper decoupage. A common concern I hear from people wanting to paint furniture is that they’re afraid to start. And if your first piece is a family heirloom then yes, be cautious. If you…
Want to make money upcycling decor from charity and thrift shop finds? From candlesticks to picture frames, here’s how to make them more valuable. Let’s start with the obvious thing. You aren’t becoming a millionaire by upcycling candlesticks any time soon. But they can be fun little projects in their own right, either to sell…