New 2 You

Brand new furniture can be expensive, and sometimes shopping at thrift stores can be a bit discouraging if some of the furniture is quite dated. But don’t let that dishearten you, rather see it as an opportunity to refinish something to be exactly the way you want! A little sandpaper, some paint, and maybe some different hardware can make an old dated item become the centerpiece in your home!

Graduation is right around the corner, but don’t break the bank trying to throw an expensive party! Stop at New 2 You for ideas on how to use old picture frames to display special moments or to make into a sign. Collect some jars and vases to set utensils, straws, napkins, or even candy in! We’ve even got a large selection of dishes and platters to pick from for large assortments of food! With these unique items you’ll be able to create a memorable and special day your grad and guests won’t soon forget!

Weddings can be expensive, but with the right tips and tricks you can save big at that special celebration. Whether you’re planning a large traditional wedding, or a small rustic one, here are some great, inexpensive ideas that start at your local thrift store.

Center Pieces

Center pieces are a part of the reception where you can really let your creativity fly! But being creative doesn’t have to be expensive. Here at New 2 You we receive donations of vases and glassware in all shapes and sizes every day. Put together a combination of different sizes and styles to bring shape and dimension to the tables. You can even spray paint to bring your wedding colors to each table!

Displays

With the right stencils, a mirror or picture frame can be the perfect wedding party display. Stylish and unique, it exudes class at the ceremony or reception. A little chalk paint and creative writing can go a long way! We have dozens of frames at New 2 You!

We all have them somewhere: a pile, a box, a stack, or any assortment of old picture frames. It’s easy to just throw them away, or you could revamp them into any number of things!

Simply get some spray paint, glue, and wood pieces to create stylish shadow boxes or shelves.

Still a mirror or a back inside that frame? See our DIY Mirror-to-Chalkboard tutorial, or start using those old frames in other unique ways.

We have a giant assortment of picture frames at New 2 You for your next DIY project.

Why Upcycle?

Upcycling is one of the smartest, most creative, and inexpensive ways to upgrade your life. By finding simple items at home or at your local thrift store, you can unleash your artsy side and make some truly unique creations. There’s seemingly no end to what can be done, and to prove that here’s some of the wildest DIY transformations you never thought you would see.

No one ever knows what to do with old silverware anyways, but now you can turn them into stylish hooks for your kitchen!

Great for displaying recipes while you cook!

Ever look at a sweater and think: “Boy, that would look really good as a pillow!”. No? You will now.

Candles melt away over time anyways, so why not replace them with something more permanent?

A stylish knife rack! Just remember to clean and dry your knives before and after use.

Drawers are great for holding all sorts of things, but who says they have to be confined to the dressers they came in?

Sure, the globe lost most of it’s practicality, but this makeover turned it into a fabulous decoration!

Upcycling at it’s finest: Turn the spines of those unrepairable classics into bookmarks.

Every item you see above can be commonly found at New 2 You so that you can start upcycling today!

Looking for something fashionable, fun, and “new” for your house? With this method, you can easily and inexpensively add a unique chalkboard using items from your local thrift and craft stores! It’s a great project for all ages, but young children should have the assistance of an adult.

Simply find an old mirror (we have a ton of them at New 2 You!) to be the base for your chalkboard. Any size will work, any style.

Make sure the mirror and frame are clean and dry before you get started. Then we recommend putting a few thin layers of primer on the frame and mirror. After the primer is dry and no longer sticky to the touch, you can start painting your frame. A couple coats of paint will do.

Maybe you want to keep the frame the way it was before, and that’s okay! Simply use painters tape or masking tape to tape off the frame, and just apply primer to the mirror.

When your frame is dry, make sure to use the correct tape and some newspaper to cover up your frame, and you’re ready to use black, chalkboard spray paint on your primed mirror. You’ll want to put on several thin layers, and it’s a good idea to let them dry in between coats. After your last layer is dry, grab some chalk and some felt(which makes for a great eraser) and you’re ready to go!

For something a little different, have both a chalkboard and mirror together!

Choose Krylon’s Looking Glass spray paint to turn thrifted lamps into stunning decor pieces for your home!