Meet the Stourbridge upcycler who loves turning 'forgotten treasures' into unique furniture
Katrin Winstanley is passionate about breathing new life into forgotten treasures to create unique furniture. It all started as a hobby for the 52-year-old who loves restyling period pieces to suit today’s homes.
She couldn’t bear the thought of furniture, that carried so much history and that had been cherished for generations, being thrown away when all it probably needed was a bit of TLC.
“I started restoring and refinishing furniture seven years ago, originally as a hobby. "I loved finding old pieces and giving them a new life, and over time it grew into a full-time business,” explains Katrin, who is based in Stourbridge.
"Before turning this into a full-time business, I was the manager of a busy wedding venue. The skills I learned there have actually helped me in this work — patience, attention to detail, and enjoying a project from start to finish,” she adds.
Katrin mainly finds her vintage furniture at auctions and through Facebook. I’m especially drawn to Art Deco furniture with strong lines and character – pieces that have something special but just need a bit of care to shine again,” she explains.
With every project, whether it’s a drinks cabinet, dressing table, desk or sideboard, Katrin aims to celebrate the furniture’s character, staying sympathetic to its era and history.
The restoration and refinishing process starts with Katrin sanding each piece back to the bare wood and carrying out any repairs that are needed.
