If you’re a homeowner who likes to take the DIY approach to things, expanding your range of skills is important. Perhaps you have some furniture in the home that you haven’t felt confident in your ability to handle, but here, we’re going to look at some of the repairs you should be able to deal with yourself.
Dealing with Small Scratches
Small scratches and scuffs are common on wooden furniture, but they can easily be minimised or repaired. For minor scratches, rubbing a wax stick or matching furniture marker into the scratch can often conceal it effectively. For deeper scratches, wood filler can be used to restore a smooth surface, followed by sanding and refinishing to blend with the surrounding wood. These simple DIY repairs can help keep the piece looking polished and well-maintained.
Stabilising Wobbly Legs
Wobbly furniture legs can be more than just an annoyance, they can make the piece unsafe or unstable. Tightening any loose screws or bolts is the first step to stabilising the furniture, but if that doesn’t work, consider replacing the screws with larger ones or adding corner brackets for extra reinforcement. You may also use wood glue for joints that have become loose over time. These small adjustments can restore the integrity of the furniture and ensure it remains functional.
Repairing Torn Upholstery
Torn upholstery can make furniture look worn and unappealing, but simple repairs can extend its life. If the tear is small, sewing it up by hand or using an iron-on patch may be sufficient. For larger tears or heavily worn fabric, consider reupholstering the piece. Measure and cut new fabric to size, then staple it in place with a staple gun, ensuring a smooth and snug fit. This can give an old chair or sofa a fresh appearance without the expense of replacing it.
Fixing Cracks in Wood
Cracks in wooden furniture can compromise its strength, but they can often be repaired with wood filler or epoxy. For minor cracks, apply wood filler into the crack, smooth it with a putty knife, and sand it once it’s dry. Deeper cracks may require a two-part epoxy, which hardens into a durable material that can be sanded and stained to match. By addressing cracks early, you can prevent further splitting and extend the lifespan of the furniture.
The Importance of Fixing Your Furniture
Taking the time out to fix your furniture is almost always a more cost-effective means of keeping it around for longer, much more so than buying new furniture. What’s more, it’s the more environmentally friendly option, ensuring that you don’t have to toss out old furniture into a landfill when you can simply help restore it to how it used to be. What’s more, becoming more adept with the repairs above can make you a handier homeowner in general, more ready to tackle new challenges as they appear.
With the tips above, you should be equipped to deal with many of the minor faults and fixes that can affect your furniture, allowing you to enjoy them for a lot longer and prevent bigger issues from popping up as complications.
