Old chairs: they’ve been sat on, stacked in the garage, and maybe even left curbside more times than we’d like to admit. But before you toss that creaky seat or worn-out dining chair, take a look at these incredibly clever and creative ways to give them a second life. Whether you’re working with a full chair, a lone backrest, or even just a few spindles, there’s no shortage of crafty potential hiding in those curves and corners.
From charming garden planters to practical storage solutions, old chairs can be transformed into stunning home décor with just a little DIY love. Some ideas keep the original function of the chair in mind—like converting it into a stylish French-style bench or an elegant dog feeding station.
Others think completely outside the box: imagine turning chair backs into towel racks or photo hangers, or using spindles to create whimsical wind chimes that add charm to any porch or patio.
You’ll also discover ways to use parts of the chair in unexpected and useful ways—such as turning legs into coat hooks, backs into earring displays, or full frames into scarf racks and chalkboards. It’s the ultimate reminder that even the most forgotten furniture can be reimagined into something beautiful.
Whether you’re a hardcore upcycler, a casual weekend DIYer, or someone who just hates to see good wood go to waste, these 25 chair makeovers will have you scanning thrift stores and garage sales for your next creative fix. You might even start hoarding broken chairs on purpose—because let’s be honest, there’s something magical about turning trash into treasure with your own two hands.
Ready to give that old chair new life? Dive into the full list of inspiring transformations and get ready to sit back (pun intended) and enjoy the results of your repurposed brilliance.
How To Make A French-Styled Bench From Old Chairs
How to upcycle an old wooden chair | with It’s So Chic furniture transfer
DIY Dog Bowl Chairs { Elevated Feeding Station } – the DIY village
Sidewalk Chalkboard from Wooden Folding Chairs – Knick of Time
Repurposed Chair – Vintage Chair Drink Stand – Oh My Creative
Nine Red: Giveaway: Cane Back Earring Rack
My gallery wall after six months in the making! | All Things Thrifty
Somethin’ Salvaged: Old Chairs and Dresser Drawers
How To Make A French-Styled Bench From Old Chairs
Repurposed Chair | Confessions of a Serial Do-it-Yourselfer
Set a Place in the Garden for a Succulent Chair Planter
How to Make a Chair Planter #lowescreator
Spindle Wind Chimes | Confessions of a Serial Do-it-Yourselfer
Upcycled DIY Pet Bed – Sparkles of Sunshine
Chair Back Towel Rack Shelf – My Repurposed Life®
A Re-Purposed Chair Back Photo Hanger – Organized Clutter
Thursday’s Theme – {Sitting Down on the Job} – Knick of Time
Looking for even more creative inspiration? We’ve recently updated our collection to include several charming fabric chair variations—perfect for adding texture, color, and personality to your next decoupage or furniture makeover project. Be sure to check them out and see how fabric can completely transform the look and feel of a simple chair!”
This one is for a wood chair, but it uses Fabric to decoupage the chair and here is another variation that uses Fabric on a flat wood chair.
