How to Flip Your First Your First Piece of Furniture

I was scrolling through Facebook Marketplace one lazy afternoon when I stumbled upon an old wooden table listed for just $10. It was covered in scratches and stains, but I saw potential. With a bit of creativity and some leftover paint from my parents’ basement, I transformed it into a stunning piece that sold for $250. This was my first flip ever.

Furniture flipping involves buying/finding old or worn-out furniture, refurbishing it, and then selling it for a profit. It’s a rewarding hobby that combines creativity, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Whether you’re looking to make some extra cash or simply enjoy the process of transforming something old into something new, furniture flipping can be a fulfilling side hustle.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the process of flipping your first piece of furniture. From choosing the right piece to the final touches, you’ll learn everything you need to know to start your furniture flipping journey.

Section 1: Understanding Furniture Flipping

What is Furniture Flipping?

Furniture flipping is the process of either finding free or purchasing used low-cost furniture, refurbishing it, and then reselling it for a profit. The transformation often involves some of the following: cleaning, repairing, staining, painting, and adding new hardware to the piece.

Benefits of Flipping Furniture:

Creativity: Allows you to express your artistic side and create unique pieces.
Sustainability: Helps reduce waste by repurposing old furniture.
Potential Profit: Can be a lucrative side hustle if done right.

Tools and Materials You May Need:

Sandpaper
Paintbrushes
Rags and Applicator Pads
Screwdrivers
Hammer
Paints and Stains
Primer
Finishes
Wood Filler
Cleaners
Random Oribital Sander
Detail Sander
Spray Gun
And many other possible tools/materials

Section 2: Choosing the Right Piece

Where to Find Furniture to Flip:

Local Thrift Stores: A treasure trove of inexpensive furniture.
Garage Sales: Great deals if you’re willing to hunt for them.
Online Marketplaces: Sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp.
Estate Sales: Sometimes get large quantities of high quality furniture at discount.
Flea Markets: Great place to discover unique, vintage, or antique furniture.

Tips for Scoring Good Deals:

Go early to garage sales for the best selection.
Negotiate prices, especially if buying multiple items.
Look for local online listings regularly.

What to Look For:

1. Quality of Construction

Solid wood pieces are generally more durable and easier to work with than particleboard.

2. Structural Integrity:

Ensure the piece is stable and not excessively damaged.

3. Potential for Transformation

Consider the design and style to see if it has good bones for a makeover.

Section 3: Preparing Your Workspace

Setting Up Your Workspace:

Finding an Appropriate Space: A garage, basement, or outdoor area works well.
Ensuring Proper Ventilation and Lighting: Important for both safety and visibility.

Safety Considerations:

Using Protective Gear: Always wear gloves, masks, and goggles.
Safe Handling of Tools and Chemicals: Follow all safety instructions for tools and materials.

Section 4: Prepping the Furniture

Cleaning the Piece:

Remove all dirt, grime, and old finishes using appropriate cleaning solutions. I like to use Krud Cutter, spray ity on, wipe it off. Then clean again using water.

Repairing Any Damage:

Fix loose joints and fill in any cracks or holes with wood filler.

Sanding the Surface:

Sanding is crucial for a smooth finish. Use different grits of sandpaper for best results.

Section 5: Staining and/or Painting – & Finishing

Choosing the Right Paint:

Types of Paint: Furniture paints, chalk, and milk paint are popular choices.
Considering the Piece’s Style and Intended Look: Choose a paint that complements the style.

Painting Techniques:

Priming the Piece: Apply a primer to help the paint adhere better.
Applying the Paint: Use a brush, roller, or spray techniques for an even coat. Avoid brush strokes by applying thin layers.

Applying the Stain:

Application Tools: Use a clean cloth, brush, or foam applicator for applying the stain. Cloths provide more control, while brushes and foam applicators are good for larger surfaces.
Technique:

Apply the stain in the direction of the wood grain.
Work in manageable sections to ensure even coverage.
Apply a generous amount of stain, allowing it to soak into the wood.
Wipe off excess stain with a clean cloth after a few minutes. The longer you leave the stain before wiping, the darker the color will be.
For a deeper color, apply additional coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Drying Time: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times. Typically, oil-based stains take longer to dry than water-based stains.

Adding Finishing Touches:

Applying a Topcoat: Protects the paint and adds durability.
Reattaching or Replacing Hardware: New hardware can dramatically change the look.

Section 6: Final Steps and Selling

Staging and Photography:

Take high-quality photos with good lighting and a clean background to showcase your piece.

Pricing Your Piece:

Consider the cost of materials, time spent, and market value when setting a price.

Where to Sell:

Online Marketplaces: eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace.
Local Consignment Shops: Some shops take a percentage of the sale price.
Social Media Platforms: Instagram and Pinterest can be great for reaching potential buyers.