For this green feature I’d like to share with you another way to do your part for the planet, save money and give old pieces new life. You probably have some great pieces, but no longer see the potential in them. Maybe they’ve been battered, torn or stained but there are several ways to update them that won’t break the bank or your back. With simple changes to the hardware, paint, or upholstery a new look is created, expanding their design potentials.

If you don’t have any pieces to work with, buy a new—to you—piece at a local garage or estate sale. Buying unloved pieces for mere change is excellent. The key is finding the right pieces and knowing which ones have promise.

Here are some tips of what to look for:
• Find pieces with a wood structure—nothing made of MDF!
• Upholstered pieces should have a spring base, as this means they are generally well made and will withstand a lot.
• Also with upholstered pieces remember the covering doesn’t  matter. If it’s worn and tattered, you can replace it.

Like with several renovations, an easy way of getting something to go from drab to fab is with a new paint job. There are several lines of environmentally-friendly paint available perfect for the job. Make it a weekend project with a little sanding, priming and painting. Try painting wooden pieces white, especially ones that are more ornate as it gives them a modern edge. Also, don’t limit yourself to just furniture—inexpensive frames can also look amazing with a little paint and inspiration.

Ordinary pieces, like an IKEA bookshelf for example, can be made into something extraordinary with a little imagination. Try putting fabric or wallpaper in behind the shelves to add some character. Putting three shelves side by side will definitely add some pizzazz to your room. Bolder, patterned fabrics are best to use—solid colours wont give you the needed impact.

Re-covering upholstered pieces such as side, dining and accent chairs is easy and fast! All you need is a staple gun, some foam, and gorgeous fabric. It’s as easy as taking off the seat, changing out the foam and replacing the fabric, no need to go out and get new chairs.

YAY—go green! Be wary of the large pieces however. Don’t try to tackle large upholstered pieces on your own. Some things are best left to the experts. Take a chair in to a place like Modern Upholstery in Calgary and they will be able to tell you exactly how much fabric you need for your piece, how long it will take, and how much it will cost. Easy, breezy!

There are also great online sources available such as Bemz (http://www.bemz.com) that sell after-market slipcovers for IKEA sofas. Available in the trendiest of the trendy fabrics, they come ready-made and will save you from going out and buying a new piece of furniture. It’s a fabulous way of changing the look of an outdated and, yes, sometimes dirty sofa.

Occasionally it’s as easy as picking out new hardware—an in-expensive way to completely change the look of a piece. Rather than buying a whole new chest or credenza, you can invest in high-end knobs and handles. It might be just the touch it needs to keep it out of the landfill. The availability of hardware is endless at stores, such as Calgary and Edmonton's The Art of Hardware, Banbury Lane Design in Calgary and Richelieu (http://www.richelieu.com).

Next time you’re considering tossing a piece of furniture, consider one of these ways to re-vamp it. It won’t take much work, just a little TLC to be good as new. If you’re sure there’s no saving the piece, you can also consider passing it on to a consignment store or selling it online. Don’t assume that it has lost all value—it will be appreciated by someone and fit perfectly in his or her décor.

Happy Green Decorating!