When did you start doing what you’re doing?

I started painting in February 2019, so about two years ago now. I was doing up my room but couldn’t afford new furniture so I had the brainwave to paint all of it, and that started everything. 

What got you interested in painting/upcycling?

I always loved art when I was in school but i didn’t practice painting anymore. So when I started seeing people upcycling on Instagram I knew I wanted to give it a go and create furniture I hadn't seen before. At the time I was just running my dad’s Instagram page @phoneboxman for him so it was great to join him on there and start painting! 

What makes the perfect upcycling piece/what types of pieces do you look for?

Oh this is a good question. I love mid-century modern pieces. So clean lines and nice legs are a must. I personally don't like pieces with carved details, I think it limits your design possibilities. 

Can you tell us a little bit about your process when finding and upcycling a piece?

Usually I find my pieces on adverts and then I'll use the piece’s shape for inspiration with the design itself. I usually do a little sketch to keep me on track. I struggle picking colours so this is where the design process is so important. Otherwise I can end up picking some pretty gaudy colours!!

Your colour combinations are always so on-point. How do you choose which colours to pair?

That is so kind, especially seeing as I feel this is the area I struggle with! But usually I take inspiration from a million different things for colour combinations. If I see colours I like on clothes, in nature or on TV, I'll take a quick picture for reference. I feel this helps get me past that block. 

Do you have a favourite colour to work with?

Definitely orange. I think it’s such a great colour to work with and complementary of a retro style. 

Your colour combinations are always so on-point. How do you choose which colours to pair?

That is so kind, especially seeing as I feel this is the area I struggle with! But usually I take inspiration from a million different things for colour combinations. If I see colours I like on clothes, in nature or on TV, I'll take a quick picture for reference. I feel this helps get me past that block. 

Do you have a favourite colour to work with?

Definitely orange. I think it’s such a great colour to work with and complementary of a retro style. 

Do you have a favourite piece you’ve made over the years and why is it your favourite?

Every piece I do is my new favourite! But overall probably a sideboard I did with some curved retro stripes in yellows and oranges. I think that was the first piece that felt really like me and my style. 

What would your advice be to anyone who’s wanting to get into the field?

Just paint! Find a piece of furniture in your house that you don't really like so it won't be a big deal if it doesn't work out. I have plenty of beginners videos on my youtube that are helpful for anyone starting out also! https://youtube.com/channel/UCyVFUCMnMMc5VQuvifpurtw.

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions Sarah, and we look forward to following you on many more exciting upcycling adventures in the future.

We highly recommend you also follow Sarah on Instagram here, and find her on YouTube here. Her website is found here: https://www.colourfulsaz.com/.