Recover A Couch and Save The Planet!!

Like a queen on her second hand throne.........

Who doesn't love furniture shopping? Ok, scratch that. Who doesn't love the end result of having a lovely piece of furniture in your home? Yeah, it's nice to skip that first step. You know, the one where the salesperson drives you nuts.

Here's another thought. Do you have an antique piece of furniture, or even just a 20 year old chair, that has 'good bones' but desperately needs some new padding and/or fabric? Instead of trashing it or giving it away, why not have it reupholstered? Often you can give an old chair or couch new life for a fraction of the cost of a new one. It's a fabulous example of recycling, too. Less in the landfill, more in your home.

Here's a THIRD thought: why not go shopping at your local thrift store for furniture? Don't curl your lip at me, young lady/man. Have you ever perused the goods at Goodwill? If you haven't, give it shot before you turn up your nose. Odds are you will be flabbergasted at what you find.

Chairs, like the one pictured above, can be had second hand for $50 or often less. Don't like the fabric? Get it reconditioned! You'll have a custom piece for pennies. Is the paint yucky? Strip it and stain it a shade more your speed. Not just couches and chairs, but desks, tables of all sizes, china cabinets, dressers......the list is endless.

Yes, there is a good amount of crap furniture there, too. SOMEONE has to buy up all the plywood end tables, ya know. Sometimes I think the sets from 'Miami Vice' came to rest at a thrift store near you. The black veneer bedroom sets from the 80's? Yours for the taking, gang!

Dig through all that yang and look for the well made, quality wood furniture. It isn't too hard to find. Look past the '70's mustard yellow, bright orange and avocado green velvet couches, and pay attention to the wood end details. Sit on the thing and see how sturdy it feels. Don't be put off by the color and fabric! Remember, for much less than new, you can grab that oldie but goodie and reupholster it to your taste.

Plus, you can pay for it all in CASH. You won't be a slave to the furniture stores' handy dandy credit payment plan.

Claire is already dreaming of the day she furnishes her first apartment. She will be way ahead of the game, because she's going to do it all second hand. Plus, she'll save even MORE money, because she's a huge fan of those '70's colors and patterns.

Rock on, little one.