Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Rescue, Restore, Redecorate: Amy Howard’s Guide to Refinishing Furniture and Accessories

by

Rescue, Restore, Redecorate: Amy Howard’s Guide to Refinishing Furniture and Accessories is the ultimate guide for anyone who wants to bring their furniture back to life. Whether you’re an experienced DIY-er or just starting out, this book is packed full of essential tips and techniques to help you turn an old piece of furniture into a showstopper.

Amy Howard is a true expert in her field, and her step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow. Even I, someone who’s not exactly handy with a paintbrush, was able to understand the process. The techniques she shares are foolproof and will help you achieve a professional-looking finish every time.

What I loved most about this book was the variety of finishes that Amy covers. From painted and faux finishes to gold leaf and distressing, there’s something for everyone. And the before-and-after makeovers from her studio are just incredible. It’s amazing to see what a little paint and some elbow grease can do!

If you’re looking for a guide to help you restore your furniture and accessories to their former glory, then Rescue, Restore, Redecorate is the book for you. Whether you’re dreaming of restoring an heirloom or just want to modernize a flea market find, Amy Howard’s design and refinishing secrets will help you get there. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and get started!

 

Related Posts:

Have you read?

I Found a Table Made from Mannequin Legs—and I’m Still Not Over It

 

manequin table recycled

Okay, I have to tell you about one of the most bizarre-yet-brilliant DIYs I’ve come across in a while. While scrolling through google (as one does when deep into a late-night upcycling rabbit hole), I stumbled on a video tutorial for a table made out of mannequin legs. And honestly? I couldn’t look away.

This project is peak creative chaos—in the best way. The concept is exactly what it sounds like: four mannequin legs, flipped and fixed in place, supporting a standard tabletop. It’s got this quirky, surreal vibe that makes it feel part high fashion, part modern art installation. Think: Tim Burton meets IKEA.

What I loved most about this video is how surprisingly accessible it is. The creator breaks the process down clearly—so even though the end result looks totally wild, the steps are manageable. You’ll need a few tools and a decent amount of glue or screws (depending on how permanent you want this table to be), but nothing too technical.

Design-wise, this piece is an absolute conversation starter. It would look amazing in a creative studio, a funky coffee shop, or even as a statement piece in a minimalist home—anywhere you want to break the “normal furniture” mold. The contrast between the realistic mannequin legs and a basic tabletop is just the right kind of weird.

If you’re into recycled home decor, eco-conscious DIY projects, or just love adding some unexpected personality to your space, this one’s worth bookmarking. Whether or not you ever make it yourself, it’s guaranteed to make you see mannequins—and furniture—in a whole new way.

Catch the full tutorial and see the visual magic for yourself on Recyclart. Just be prepared to say, “Wait, is that a leg?” every time someone visits your house.