DIY Thrift Store Makeovers offer an incredible way to breathe new life into old and discarded items, turning them into stunning pieces that reflect your personal style.
Whether you’re an experienced DIY enthusiast or just starting out, these transformations show that creativity and a bit of effort can turn any thrift store find into a beautiful and functional addition to your home.
With a focus on upcycling and repurposing, DIY thrift store makeovers not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. From furniture revamps to creative decor hacks, the possibilities are endless.
Each project demonstrates how you can give new meaning to items that might otherwise end up in the landfill.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to be inspired by these amazing DIY thrift store makeovers that will have you seeing potential in every corner of your local thrift shop.
1. Focus on Timeless Styles:
When giving thrift store items a new life, aim for designs that have a classic appeal. Timeless styles tend to blend seamlessly with various decor themes and are less likely to feel outdated quickly.
This approach ensures that your makeovers have staying power, making them valuable additions to any space.
2. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity:
In the world of thrift store makeovers, it’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of cheap finds. But investing in high-quality pieces that might need just a little love will yield more satisfying results than working on multiple lower-quality items.
Quality pieces have better construction and materials, which can elevate the final outcome of your project.
3. Use Versatile Techniques:
Opt for makeover techniques that can be applied to various types of materials and objects. Versatility in your approach allows you to refine your skill set and apply your creativity across a broader range of projects.
Techniques like painting, refinishing, or reupholstering can be adapted to suit different items, making your makeovers more impactful.
DIY Thrift Store Makeovers
21. Galvanized Bucket Makeover from Knick of Time
An old galvanized bucket receives a fresh, vintage-inspired look through a creative image transfer technique. The process involves applying a charming Milk & Cream graphic onto the metal surface, giving the bucket an authentic farmhouse appeal despite dents and rust.
The image may appear cloudy at first, but applying a sealer like tung oil clears the haze and sharpens the design. This makeover transforms a simple thrift store find into a stylish, rustic decor piece perfect for adding character to any space.
20. Thrift Store Farmhouse Canisters from Twelve On Main
A set of thrifted canisters is transformed into charming farmhouse-style storage with a simple makeover. After cleaning and painting them white, subtle sanding adds character before stenciling labels like Flour, Sugar, Coffee, and Tea on the lids for a personalized touch.
The process demonstrates how inexpensive items can be refreshed with basic supplies like spray paint and craft paint. The finished canisters offer a stylish, functional addition to any kitchen, combining vintage appeal with modern farmhouse aesthetics.
19. Thrift Store Pitchers Makeover from The Painted Hinge
This item demonstrates how to transform inexpensive thrift store pitchers into stylish white farmhouse decor pieces using spray paint. It highlights the process of priming and lacquer-coating the pitchers to achieve a smooth, updated finish while preserving their shape and usability as decorative vases.
The makeover allows users to create affordable, custom farmhouse-style accents without buying new items. It also offers practical tips on drying times and cleaning to maintain the painted pitchers’ appearance over time.
18. Repurposed Thrift Store Vase from It All Started With Paint
This item demonstrates how to transform inexpensive thrift store vases into stylish home décor using simple materials like washi tape, stickers, and spray paint. By applying tape and stickers to create patterns, then painting and peeling them away, it reveals clean, decorative designs such as polka dots and stripes.
The process adds a fresh, personalized touch to plain vases, making them perfect for bringing a bit of spring indoors. It offers a creative way to refresh your space while repurposing affordable finds with minimal effort and cost.
17. Thrift Store Farmhouse Bowl from Twelve on Main
A plain wooden bowl is transformed into a charming farmhouse decor piece by spray painting it white and adding a hand-painted number on the inside. The process involves transferring a printed number onto the bowl and carefully painting within the lines to create a rustic, personalized look.
This decorative bowl is ideal for displaying seasonal accents or everyday items, adding a subtle farmhouse touch to any room. It is intended purely for decor, not for food use, making it a versatile and stylish addition to home styling.
16. Gold Painted Wood Bowls from Endlessly Inspired
15. Painted Dishes Inspired by Martha Stewart from Sincerely Sarah D.
This item demonstrates how to transform thrift store dishes into stylish white decor pieces using glossy spray paint. It encourages selecting dishes based on shape rather than color or pattern, applying multiple light coats to avoid drips, and creating custom pedestal stands by gluing plates to candlestick holders.
The finished pieces are intended for decorative use only and are not food safe. These DIY dishes brighten up home spaces and can be used in various rooms to add a clean, simple aesthetic without spending much money.
14. Cheese Dome turned Cloche from House of Hepworths
This project transforms a thrifted cheese dome and candle stick into a stylish cloche, perfect for displaying decorative items. The base and dome are glued together, then spray painted with layers of black and oil-rubbed bronze paint to achieve a metallic shimmer finish.
The cloche can be personalized with seasonal or decorative accents inside, such as faux fruit, to create a charming centerpiece. It offers an affordable and creative way to upcycle thrift store finds into unique home decor.
13. DIY Gold Dipped Jars from Artsy Chicks Rule
These gold-dipped jars transform ordinary thrift store glass containers into elegant, decorative pieces with a simple spray paint technique. By filling the jars with water, a clean, even line is created to guide the gold paint application, resulting in a polished, store-bought look.
The project offers a budget-friendly way to add a touch of sophistication to any space, perfect for displaying flowers or other decor. Multiple coats of gold paint ensure a rich finish, and the jars remain durable and attractive for years of use.
12. Fancy Chalkboards from Confessions of a Serial DIYer
These chalkboards transform vintage frames into stylish, functional decor pieces by adding a smooth chalkboard surface inside. The frames are painted and distressed to reveal gold accents underneath, giving them a unique, elegant look that stands out in any room.
Each chalkboard includes a small handmade fabric bag attached to hold chalk, combining practicality with charm. The surfaces are prepared with chalkboard paint and seasoned for easy writing and erasing, making them perfect for notes, menus, or creative displays.
11. Farmhouse Style Tray from a Thrift Store Cutting Board from Sadie Seasongoods
10. Thrift Store Picture Makeover from Christina Faye Repurposed
This project transforms an inexpensive thrift store picture frame into charming farmhouse decor using simple materials like chalk paint, striped fabric, and vinyl lettering. The makeover involves painting and distressing the frame, adding fabric as a background, and applying a custom vinyl quote or stencil to create a personalized rustic look.
The process encourages creativity with affordable supplies and can be adapted whether or not you have access to a vinyl cutting machine. It offers a practical way to refresh old frames and add a cozy, handmade touch to your home’s decor.
9. Farmhouse Decor from $5 Thrift Store Frame from Confessions of Serial DIYer
This item features a creative transformation of an old frame into a charming wreath backdrop with a rustic farmhouse vibe. The frame is painted with white chalk paint and fitted with chicken wire, creating a versatile display surface that complements seasonal wreaths or other decorative elements.
The chicken wire also allows for practical uses such as hanging photos, notes, or mementos with clothespins, adding both function and style. The weathered wood and simple materials combine to produce a timeless piece that enhances any mantel or wall space with a cozy, handmade feel.
8. Old Metal Tray Repurposed with Chalk Paint from Artsy Chicks Rule
An old metal tray is transformed into a functional chalkboard using chalk paint, creating a stylish menu or note board. The tray is painted with multiple coats of chalk paint for durability, then decorated with a transferred graphic and hand-painted lettering for a personalized touch.
The chalkboard surface allows for easy writing and erasing, making it perfect for daily menus or reminders. Sealing the painted areas except the chalkboard ensures the piece remains protected while maintaining its usability as a writable surface.
7. Thrifted Candlestick Pedestal from Simply Beautiful by Angela
6. TV Tray Makeover from In My Own Style
This item demonstrates how to transfer typography onto wood furniture using a simple wax paper method. It guides the user through preparing the surface, painting with chalk paint, and creating a mirrored image to print and transfer cleanly onto the wood.
The process helps transform ordinary furniture pieces into personalized, stylish items with custom lettering. It also includes tips for sanding, painting, and positioning the design to achieve a professional-looking finish that enhances home decor.
5. Thrift Store Basket Makeover from Artsy Chicks Rule
This item demonstrates how to transform old or thrifted baskets using simple painting and staining techniques to give them a fresh, updated look. It features two distinct makeover styles: one with a dark base and white overlay, and another with a soft, bleached effect achieved through light dry brushing.
The process highlights easy steps like taping handles, applying spray paint or chalk paint, and sealing the finish for durability. These makeovers help repurpose baskets for practical use, such as organizing supplies, while adding a personalized decorative touch to any space.
4. $2 Thrift Store Tray from Looking for a Fly on a Dime
3. Reclaimed Wood Bookcase from Confessions of a Serial DIYer
This item features a small bookcase transformed using reclaimed fence pickets as a new backing. The wood was cut to size, white-washed for a coastal summer look, and attached to replace the original damaged back panel.
The bookcase is painted white and sealed with a protective finish to withstand everyday use. Summer-inspired decor, including painted thrift store finds and fresh hydrangeas, completes the light, airy aesthetic.
2. Knock Off Pottery Barn Dining Chairs from Bless’er House
These no-sew dining chairs transform outdated castoff furniture into stylish, budget-friendly pieces inspired by high-end designs. The process involves cutting and sanding chair backs, painting and staining wood for a weathered look, and upholstering with canvas and foam for a comfortable, polished finish.
The project uses simple tools and affordable materials like drop cloth fabric, mattress foam, and nailhead trim to achieve a custom appearance without sewing. The result is a set of sturdy, attractive dining chairs that combine craftsmanship with cost savings, making it accessible for anyone looking to refresh their dining space.
1. Thrift Store Patio Makeover from Liz Marie
How can I ensure my thrift store makeovers look professional?
To achieve a professional finish, focus on preparation and attention to detail. Always clean and sand your items thoroughly before starting. Take your time with the paint or stain application, ensuring even coats.
Use high-quality hardware and accessories to elevate the final look. A professional finish comes down to patience and precision.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when doing a thrift store makeover?
A common mistake is not taking the time to properly prepare the item. Skipping steps like sanding or priming can lead to poor paint adhesion and a subpar finish.
Another mistake is using cheap paint or finishes that wear out quickly. It’s also important to avoid taking on projects that require skills beyond your current level—start small and build your expertise.
How can I add a unique touch to my thrift store makeover?
Adding a unique touch involves creative customization. Consider adding personalized stencils, unusual color combinations, or decorative hardware. You can also incorporate different textures by using techniques like decoupage or upholstery.
The key is to think outside the box and let your personal style shine through.