What keeps us thrift shop and flea market addicts returning to the scene
of the crime fun?  Inspiration!  And what's more inspirational than proof
that a sow's ear really can be transformed into a silk purse?  You know -
it's Before & After projects.

The Better Homes and Gardens blog recently featured several amazing
makeovers and I'm thrilled to feed your addiction share them with you:

This chest was begging for attention and, boy, did he get it!

 



What was a simple bookcase is now a classy mini-secretary:

 


New legs, new hardware, a paint job and a little contact paper completely
transformed this nerdy little particle board cabinet:

 


Vintage tin trays are quickly being snatched up so if you run across a
couple, grab them:

 




The laminate was very damaged on this antique bed but painted and repurposed,
it makes a beautiful settee:

 



Vanities are so versatile and make terrific desks:

 




A quirky, vintage end table has a new home and a chic new look:

 



Love, Love, Love this cabinet:

 

As much as I like natural wood, the paint treatment of this vintage tea cart

is so bright and cheerful:

 



Is this not the cutest ottoman cover ever?!

 


Most thrift shops have a wide selection of miscellaneous chairs, many under $20:

 

 

Almost all of these pieces were found in a thrift shop or at a flea market. 
Click here to view a few more of their inspiring transformations.

Get out there and find your sow's ear.  Happy hunting!

True forgiveness is when you can say, "Thank you for that experience ."  -- Oprah Winfrey