Junk Chic

by Kathryn Elliott

Thrift stores, flea markets, basements and attics offer plenty of inexpensive--or even free--materials that, with a little imagination and transformation, can become exquisite decorative items. But, do you feel at a loss when you look at that battered table, those surplus chairs, those seemingly past-their-prime decorative objects? Dozens of beautiful and unique projects provide the answer to your quandary with a wealth of inspiration and how-to guidance. So, instead of regretfully passing by that bargain, you'll eagerly apply painted finishes and other craft techniques to bring out the hidden beauty in almost any kind of furniture and accent pieces. Discarded wooden cupboard doors give a boring hallway new life as a Secret Garden. A pair of beat-up lamps morph into living room accessories. Recycle an old trunk by making it into a table. Reupholster outdated chairs with the magic of a glue gun and some fabric. You'll have a beautiful home on a shoestring budget!

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference

160 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[D. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though published in 2001, the style of decor and projects have a late -1980s/early 1990s maximalist vibe. Heavy on the romantic European old-is-new where every surface that can be distressed or reworked is.

That said, the author's techniques are clever and easy to do. She provides great step-by-step instructions that provide great starting points for today's DIYers. I appreciate Elliott's friendly narrative and the positive energy clearly imbued in the work in and around her family home.

Nice photographs, approachable and clear guidance through projects.

[Diana Kocher · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a faux painter, I am always exploring. This is an older title that contains some excellent techniques and ideas. A real keeper, that inspires and would be a good start for beginners.

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting painting techniques. I especially liked the weathered wood, distressed plaster, and cloud and sky walls.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of the ideas in this book are from the author's home...very impressive and lovely home.

She says exactly where she got the piece before she refurbished it (thrift store, someone's rubbish pile, etc.) and says how much (if anything) she paid for it.

Ideas include a pot rack from an old coffee table!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't wait to try some of these ideas. Some great tips for painting techniques ~ I will certainly turn to this book a lot when my husband & I get to the fun part of redecorating our home. (Right now we are just working on putting up new insulation, walls ~ you know, the totally neccessary but totally mind-numbing boring stuff!)

[Caryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can do anything with paint and a glue gun! Decorate your house with little money and lots of imagination and it can look great!

[Tammy Morman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy DIY ways to fix up things you never thought you could fix up.

[Hope L. Justice · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book is nice to flip through and minimally worth reading for her techniques in antiquing.