Three easy and affordable ways to revamp old pieces:

1. Paint it

This is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to update a piece of old furniture. You can even paint a couple of mismatched pieces – like dining room chairs – in the same colour or shade to create one look. Also, play with different painting techniques, like the white-washed or second-hand look. (For the latter, gently sand the piece of furniture again after applying the paint.)

BEFORE pluralid.blogspot.com

AFTER pluralid.blogspot.com

2. Cover it up

A slipcover is an inexpensive way to revamp a couch or armchair. If sewing is not your strong suit, shop around for someone who can custom-make you a slipcover at a decent price. (You can save a lot by buying your own material.) Consider getting a slipcover for one couch and update the rest of your living room set by adding throws and scatter cushions.

Click here to see our five favourite throws or 10 great scatter cushions.

3. Mosaic it

Take an old side table from drab to fab by covering the top with a mosaic artwork. Either use mismatch tiles (we all have some of those lying around at home!) or buy mosaic tiles and mirrors for your DIY project. Play around with the pieces and take a photo once you’re happy with the overall design. Remove the pieces and clean and sand, if necessary, the surface of the table before gluing the pieces of tile onto the table top. (Use the photo if you can’t remember which tile went where.) Finish off by grouting and varnishing your handiwork.

R14 each, Hadeda

R121/sheet, Pudlo

4. Just do it

Can’t commit to or afford a major revamp right now? Start small. New buttons or feet on an armchair will have a greater effect than you might think. The same goes for new knobs on a chest of drawers or handles on your closet doors.

R76, Cape Handlebar

R45, Les Collectables