My Top 5 Products For Thrift Store Makeovers

I have a passion for giving old things new life such as ugly figurines from the thrift store or a beat up, painted-too-many-times piece of furniture.

I thought it would be helpful to put together a list of the basic materials and tools I always have on hand when I discover a new treasure just begging for an affordable DIY glow up!

1. Spray paint

One of the easiest ways to create a high end look is with the power of paint. One of my favorite thrifting tips is, "look at the shape, not the color." Old, outdated colors can be easily swapped for chic neutral tones with a few light coats of spray paint. These are the 3 colors I always have on hand in my home.

Here are a few of the makeovers I've done using only spray paint!

the look for less - white fluted bowl

$4 floor lamp makeover

thrifted metal tree

2. Rub'N Buff

An easy way to elevate the look room in your home is with art, but frames are expensive these days! I always make sure to look through wall frames and mirrors at thrift stores because there's nothing a good cleaning and some rub'n buff can't do to transform an old frame into a high end gallery worthy one! My favorite gold tones are gold leaf and Grecian gold.

And rub'n buff isn't just for frames! Use it on lamps, decorative objects, hardware, and more! I even added rub'n buff to the ceiling fan in my office to give the gold parts an antique brass look.

3. Citristrip

From removing paint and gunk on old hinges and hardware to easily removing finish and paint from furniture, Citristrip is a product I use exclusively to help makeovers be a whole lot easier. It also does not give off harmful fumes and odors, so while it's still important to use in a ventilated area, it's much more tolerable to be around.

4. Restor-a-finish

When you are lucky enough to find a beautiul piece of furniture at a thrift store or on Facebook Marketplace that doesn't need a lot of work and you don't want to change the color, Restor-a-finish is an awesome product to conceal minor scratches and knicks. You wipe it into scratches with a soft rag and they "magically" vanish, leaving you with nothing but a gorgeous vintage treasure!

5. Acrylic Paint & Baking Soda

An awesome technique for turning ugly, shiny vases and vessels into high end looking pottery is with paint and a simple kitchen staple - baking soda. See the super easy tutorial for this technique here!

looking for more Thrift store makeovers?

For more thrifting inspiration, start here!

xoxo, L