Ideas for Redesigning an Old Couch

Use Duct Tape

• Duct tape is one of the simplest ways to give an old couch a fresh look. Choose the traditional silver duct tape or opt for one of the patterned duct tapes or colored duct tapes now sold. Simply wrap the duct tape around the couch, overlapping each piece slightly. Remove the cushions from the couch and wrap each cushion individually in the tape. For a funky look, use a solid color of duct tape on the back, armrests and other areas of the couch. Cover the cushions in a patterned tape or a different shade.

Take it Outside

• Use the old couch as an accent for your front porch or front yard. For lighter-weight couches and those with a plastic frame, make the couch a swing for the porch. Couches with metal frames or heavy wood frames are typically too heavy to hang. Use brackets and chains to support the weight of the couch and attach those pieces to the roof of the porch. The same idea also works if you want to hang the couch outside from a tree. You may want to cover the couch with a water-resistant or waterproof fabric first.

Bathtub Couch

• Combine an old cast-iron bathtub with a couch to create a funky bathtub couch for your home. Clean the bathtub and cut in half lengthwise with a blowtorch. Sand down any sharp edges and paint the bathtub in a porcelain or ceramic paint, depending on the tub's material. Remove the existing cushions from the couch and place along the bottom edge of the tub, making a comfortable seat.

Quick Redesigns

• Redesign your old couch by changing the fabric. Reupholster the couch with a new fabric, a sheet or even a tapestry. Add more stuffing to the couch, by pulling off the cushions and wrapping with quilt batting. Cover the cushions with a matching fabric or a complementary fabric. You can even change out any hardware on the couch, such as metal tacks holding the fabric to the couch.