Friend, two years ago I was stunned, nervous, and excited at the possibility of writing and publishing a real book. Not just any type of book, but one that encompasses my passion for teaching and inspiring others to be more creative with furniture and decor makeovers while on a thrifty budget.
One year ago today (June 4th, 2019), Amazing Furniture Makeovers: Easy DIY Projects to Transform Thrifted Finds into Beautiful Custom Pieces was born into this world.
It was created from blood, sweat, and tears (all of those things many times during the process) – but most importantly, hope and love.
Today I want to celebrate by sharing some of the projects from the book, makeovers from blogging friends who were inspired by the book projects, and then of course give away some awesome stuff!
If you’re not yet familiar with Amazing Furniture Makeovers, it includes 25 step-by-step furniture makeovers with photos of every step – and they’re exclusive project tutorials that don’t exist anywhere else.
Have you ever wished you could print out a bunch of my projects and keep them together in one place to refer to whenever you want, even when you’re not online? Friend, that would take a whole lot of paper and ink. –> This book is your answer (plus it’s prettier and more cost effective).
Below are a few fantastic projects that were inspired by the makeovers in AFM:
Read Confessions of a Serial DIYer’s blog post about this beautiful stenciled chair here.
Read The Interior Frugalista’s blog post about this adorable dollhouse makeover series here.
Read I Restore Stuff’s blog post about this charming suitcase nightstand here.
This is another one of my favorite makeovers from the book (actually there are two in the photo below):
AFM covers the basics like prep work, tools, painting and staining, and then fun techniques like painted patterns, decoupage, reupholstery, layers and texture, image transfers, using nailheads, and of course repurposing and upcycling!
Many of my painting idols / talented friends have reviewed Amazing Furniture Makeovers, which include Annie Sloan, Marian Parsons, KariAnne Wood, and Jamie Lundstrom:
And I’ve also been blessed to have many thoughtful comments left on sites like Amazon:
If you already own AFM, or plan to buy it, would you pretty please do me a favor and leave a review? Often people forget, but it’s SO helpful for the book and the author!
Read more about AFM and consider ordering from these fine retailers (or anywhere books are sold):
Amazon (affiliate) – Barnes & Noble – Target – Books-a-Million – Book Depository – Indiebound – Walmart
Also available on Amazon in Canada, UK, and AU. Book Depository offers free worldwide shipping.
Now let’s have fun with some giveaways!
Last year I mailed gifts to people who preordered my book and sent me their order confirmation – a handy GITG tote bag, tape measure, and an autographed official bookplate to stick inside the book.
I still have a limited number of those gifts leftover, so here’s the deal: If you order my book between now and Tuesday (June 9th), go here to give me your order details and your address and I will mail you a GITG tote bag, tape measure, and autographed bookplate sticker. (I’m sorry but this is for US only since I’m personally sending these packages out.) I only have limited quantities left though, so I may take that page down before Tuesday if I run out.
ALSO… because I’m feeling very celebratory today:
I’m giving away each of the above goodies PLUS a copy of Amazing Furniture Makeovers to 2 lucky blog readers (and 1 of the same packages over on my Instagram page)!
And out of all the packages I’m sending, I’ll randomly pick a few to include some extra goodness… you’ll just have to wait and see if it’s you! 😉
Enter the giveaway here (sorry, US only):
Thank you so much for your support – I appreciate you! – Jen
Cheryl L says
Looks like the perfect DIY book I’d refer to over and over again. Love to have this in my library!
Jen, Girl in the Garage says
Thank you so much Cheryl! 🙂
Rhonda says
Love your blog. I’m a beginner and I have been really inspired by your creativity 😁
Cindy Brooks says
I’ve painted quite a lot of furniture, but nothing creative….yet!
Jana Bendawald says
Jen: Have so enjoyed your book over this last year. It is my intention (haven”t yet) to use this down time to try out more of your ideas! So enjoyed my little gifts you sent last year and putting them to good use. Congrats on your 1 year anniversary and hope you have another book in your future!
Jana
Jen, Girl in the Garage says
Thank you so much, Jana! I really appreciate it! I’d love to see some of your projects 🙂
Lisa says
I am waiting on a book like yours to get me started. Hopefully I will win. 🤞🏻
Thank you 😊
Deb says
Can’t wait to win 😁
You do such beautiful work!
Kerin Brown says
I love getting a piece of furniture for little or next to nothing and turning it into a piece I can be proud of owning or giving away!
Amy Mercier says
I’m a 50 year old who paints like she’s 5. Oh this would make me happy.
Kerin Brown says
Love the challenge of turning someone’s trash into my treasure!!
Nancy Shaw says
Congratulations! I have been a huge follower of your makeovers because they are truly wonderful. Not just a different color paint and that’s it like so many bloggers do. You give me ideas and the faith in myself that I can do it. I’ve just decided my bedroom furniture is do for makeovers and this email came at the perfect time to get me started. Thanks!
Carol S. says
I have painted a few pieces, but I’m still a bit nervous. Excited to read your new book.
Carol S. says
I subscribe to your blog and love it!
Toni says
Oh, I’d love to own this book. Everything under one cover!
Fiona says
Congratulations! You and your book are a real inspiration. 🙂
lyn walten says
Thank you for the great giveaway!
Mother Deer says
I’m a beginner and always enjoy reading about your projects on the blog. I haven’t tried chalk paint yet and look forward to giving it a whirl. Thanks for the opportunity to win your book 🙂
Susan B says
I am in love with those suitcase nightstands! So creative!!
Vickie Norrid says
I bought your book last year as soon as it came out. I have enjoyed it and it’s pretty on my side table. I have been following you on Facebook and am inspired by your work. I have 5 antique booths and love creating unique pieces.
Mea Cadwell says
I didn’t even know your book existed! So, as a newcomer to Girl In The Garage, thank you for bringing it up. I just purchased it and can hardly wait to use your knowledge to do things. Thank you! 🙂
Jen, Girl in the Garage says
Awwww thank you so much Mea!! <3
Lola Fields says
I love my copy of your book.
Linda says
I’ve been a subscriber for a long time and love what you do! Would love to win a copy of your book!
Kathy E. says
I’ve painted a few smaller pieces of furniture, but would like to go big and dramatic! I’m hoping to learn how to stencil and add details to make my projects unique and stand out. I’d love this book!
Barbara LaGrandier says
I enjoy redoing small pieces of furniture, I love learning new things!
Kristin L. says
I am a beginner- wanna be- girl in the garage😊. I have made over 2 pieces, And it was true therapy for me… but I need more guidance! That is why I love your blog and advice so much! Thank you!!
Kristen says
I am excited for your book. I have been renovating furniture over the past 9 years for ourselves mainly. But live learning and getting new ideas!
Michelle says
I have been subscribed for awhile, love your style, would love a hard copy of the book, and here’s to the furniture future!
Marie-Interior Frugalista says
Jen, your book sits proudly on the open shelving in my home office right next to Annie Sloan, Marian Parsons, and KerriAnne’s books. I’ve found myself referring to your book often, even a year later. I think of you every time I add more updates to my granddaughter’s bookcase dollhouse, thanks to the inspiration found in your book. Appreciate the shout out here in your post and I can’t wait to give my sweet little Everly her dollhouse this Christmas.
Sharon Rice says
This would be so wonderful to have. At 70+ the creative juices are still going strong, just need some inspiration. Your book would do it.
Trisha G says
Super cute tape measure!
Kim Michael says
I have painted quite a few pieces but I’m always looking for new, creative ideas. I love getting your emails and reading your blog. I also recently enrolled in your academy! I’m working my way through those materials.
Jennifer says
Happy 1st Birthday! Your posts are always inspiring to me. Just put the book on my Amazon wish list😁
Lisa O. says
I’ve only recently begun revamping furniture. I was glad to find your blog and I appreciate the tips you provide, not to mention the gorgeous makeovers. Thanks
Cecilia from Georgia says
I have referred to your book many times when painting furniture. I am trying to get the nerve to put nail heads on a piece but haven’t had the patience to try it. Great book!
Edie Smoak says
Beginner but have big plans and hopes!
Melanie says
I really admire your talent!
Melanie says
I am an email subscriber already.
Audra says
I’m a beginnner and I would love to make over a few things that have seen better days in my house!
Nancy K. says
Well, I have so many curbside “rescues,” but they are just sitting in the garage, because I can’t get up the nerve to start on anything. I hope your book will inspire me to get over my hesitation and my fear of failure and just do it!
Allison Anselmo says
I look forward to getting the email that your blog is up every week, there’s always a great project in store for us. I love how you can take something simple and plain and turn it into a one of a kind work of art! You encourage us to believe that we can create something special too!
Jen, Girl in the Garage says
So sweet- thank you Allison! <3
Cat Insley says
What an accomplishment!! Congratulations! I look forward to your posts every week! Thanks for all your hard work and inspiration. Hugs, cat
Jen, Girl in the Garage says
Thank you so much for the kind words, Cat!!
Patsy McQuade says
Your ideas and work are beautiful. The book looks interesting and informative!
Julie Kludt says
I’m a beginner & can use all the help I can get!! Appreciate your tips & enjoy getting your emails>
Kim says
Your talent is AMAZING! I would love to win your book to get some inspiration.
Jen, Girl in the Garage says
Thank you so much Kim!!
Tamara A Sulak says
I am a beginner at almost all that I’m trying right now! I do alot of crafts but I mainly make dollhouses and everything in them! I hope to learn new techniques from everyone that I can. I just started my own business with my twin sister and we love learning new things that no one really expects or thinks of! Everything I have read on this blog is amazing and helpful!
Jen, Girl in the Garage says
Thank you so much, Tamara! Best of luck with your business!