Welcome to the latest edition of our monthly series on therurallegend.com, where we breathe new life into thrift store items by transforming them into stunning home decor! Each month, we highlight recent upcycle projects and the materials we used, all while demonstrating the endless possibilities hidden within secondhand finds. For real-time updates and to see these thrift store makeovers as they happen, be sure to follow us on Instagram!
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Magazine Rack Glow Up
When I spotted this wicker and metal magazine rack with its metal bow and tassels, I immediately saw its potential as a standout thrift store item! I purchased it for just $4.99 at Goodwill. After soaking it in warm soapy water, I began the transformation.
Check out my Top 5 Products for Cleaning Thrift Store Finds!
The metal frame was attached with screws, so after removing them, I carefully detached the wicker lining without causing any damage. I painted the wicker flat black and gave the metal a coat of my favorite gold spray paint, followed by a touch of Rub’n Buff in gold leaf. Pro Tip: Applying Rub’n Buff adds depth to the metallic finish, giving it the appearance of brass or aged gold.
After reassembling the piece, I added it to our family room, storing a few of my favorite throw blankets inside. This makeover quickly became popular on Instagram, proving that even simple upcycles of thrift store items can result in fabulous decor with minimal effort.
From Candle Holder to Outdoor Solar Light Fixture
This metal piece, originally designed to hold glass votive cups and tea light candles, caught my eye as another fantastic thrift store item. Inspired by my previous solar chandelier project for our back patio, I decided to convert this $4 find into a solar light for our patio table.
I began by cleaning the metal and spraying it black with my go-to spray paint. Next, I attached affordable globe solar lights using heat-resistant super glue, ensuring durability throughout the summer. After the glue cured, we added this piece to our dining table, threading the patio umbrella through the center hole.
Our new solar light fixture adds a warm, inviting ambiance to our evenings, with a Parisian vibe thanks to the globe lights.
Outdoor Essentials:
patio umbrella / umbrella base / outdoor rug / garden beds / solar garden lights / outdoor cushions
Pumpkin Pedestals
This simple Fall upcycle project is one of my favorites, and the best part is that these “pedestals” can be used throughout the year! I repurposed $5 table lamps from the thrift store, removed the wiring, and painted them flat black before adding faux pumpkins on top. You can find the full, easy tutorial HERE!
Picture Frame Fall Wreath
I discovered this beautiful, vintage picture frame at a thrift store for $10, and it quickly became one of my favorite finds. After some thought, I decided to transform it into a Fall wreath for our front door. I painted the frame gold, aged it with black acrylic paint, and added neutral fall stems with a dusty blue velvet ribbon.
Even if you’ve never made a wreath before, this project is simple to follow. Customize it to fit your style and front door using my step-by-step tutorial.
Get a full tour of our Fall front porch HERE!
Thrifted Makeovers From The Archives
I’m excited to continue sharing these upcycle projects with you each month! While you wait for the next edition, explore some of my favorite past makeovers featuring thrift store items:
- How to Make Thrifted Finds Look Like Aged Brass
- DIY Pedestal Table with a Lamp
- DIY Brass Wall Sconce
- How to Turn a Vase Into a Lamp
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xoxo, L
