How to upcycle bargain buys into chic accessories

Transform everyday items into stylish must-haves with our easy how-to guide…

We all love a thrifty buy and charity shops are a great place to find hidden gems! But sometimes great second-hand ornaments just don't quite match your colour scheme.

But don't panic, because Rust-Oleum has a product that will create a beautiful finish on any fab find.

The Rust-Oleum Universal All-Surface Spray Paint is ideal for transforming everyday objects into beautiful mantelpiece accessories.

Keep reading to see our handy step-by-step guide on how to revamp your outdated ornaments in just one hour.

You will need

Assorted ornaments to be painted
A dust sheet
A protective face mask
Rust-Oleum Universal All-Surface Spray Paint in White Gloss and Flat White

Step 1

Preparation

Old items can be full of dust and years of greasy finger marks so make sure your pieces are clean and free from dust particles otherwise you won’t get an even finish. Place outside on a large dust sheet, and make sure you wear a protective mask for this one.

Step 2

Paint

Using Rust-Oleum Universal All-Surface Spray Paint, hold the can about 12 inches away from the object and using nice even strokes spray 2-3 thin coats on. Keep the can moving and overlap each stroke slightly. Thin coats will dry quicker and give a much neater finish. If you do happen to get drips on the object, then don’t panic, just use kitchen roll to dab off the excess and it will cover up in the next coat.

It will take between 30-60 mins between each coat to be touch dry. The first coat will look speckly, that’s fine, if you try to get full coverage in one spray you’ll get drips.

Step 3

Styling

By painting all of the objects the same colour you can instantly create a co-ordinated collection, so you need to find the perfect place in your home to display them. It works best to group things in odd numbers and add height using books or boxes. If there are vases in your collection then flowers will create extra height too. Don’t go for tallest to shortest, mix up your heights. If you have a deeper shelf or surface then using the space to bring things forward and play with the space.

Project courtesy of Rust-Oleum. Check out more Rust-Oleum products at www.makeityours.co.uk.