AN Oxfordshire woman who quit her job to follow her passion for upcycling has shared her top DIY tips.

Kayleigh Higgs, 33, decided being an interior photographer wasn't making her happy and left the field last year to pursue her love for transforming furniture.

ALSO READ: Mum who upcycled old Ikea Kallax unit launches business

She set up an Instagram account last year to share her work and has since gained more than 18,000 followers.

She's also been hailed and followed by popular influencer Mrs Hinch who has a following of 4.3million on the platform.

Here are her five top tips on upcycling:

  1. Preparation is key. Always start any upcycling project by wiping down the furniture with sugar soap. You’ll be surprised how much dirt and grease there is.
  2. If you’re planning on changing the hardware, remove and fill the original wholes in first. If you are keeping the original hardware, remove before painting and give them a good clean. 
  3. Always sand down the furniture before painting by using 120 grit sandpaper. This is so the paint has something to grip onto. 
  4. Respect power tools. Everyone can use power tools, but you need to make sure you respect them and use them properly. Researching or getting advice from friends and family is key, especially if you’ve never used them before. 
  5. Not everyone has to like it. Just you. So be brave, true to yourself and style. Most importantly have fun whilst upcycling. 

 

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