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6/10/2010

How to Recycle Flea Market Furniture for Big Profits

One of the top sellers at flea markets that cater toward garages sale type vendors is furniture. Small furniture is easy to transport in a van, easy to find in good condition, and profitable. Some flea market vendor's merchandise is comprised completely of furniture found curbside before trash pick up day.

Things You'll Need:
Old furniture
Paint/Finish stripping chemicals
Sandpaper
Paint and stain
Paintbrushes and rags
Well-ventilated work space

Step1
Find old, used furniture to recycle for profit. This can be found at garage sales, thrift stores, or on the curb on garbage days. Check your local laws about picking garbage and, if you do it, be respectful and neat. Grabbing a chair or small table does not mean you toss garbage about.

Step2
Clean the furniture thoroughly. Use cleaning products that will not harm the wood or whatever material the furniture is made from. If you are not planning to refinish the piece, spot test a small area with the cleaning fluid before using it.

Step3
Strip all old stain and paint off the furniture if it is in bad condition. Sand any rough patches, use wood filler to repair dings and holes. Scrub any hardware and clean it thoroughly as well.

Step4
Repaint or re-stain the piece of furniture you with to sell at the flea market. Repair upholstery on chairs with attractive, trendy fabric, preferably in a neutral shade. Reattach hardware that is totally clean and prepared.

Step5
Truck all the recycled furniture to the flea market and display it for sale. Intersperse the furniture with small accent pieces such as pillows, vases, or other objects that will attract interest.

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