Well-traveled nightstand

Years of use and moving-van trips can make a nightstand look road-weary. We gave this one a lift by decoupaging it with maps scored for $25 at a flea market (you could also use those old ones in your car). No need to ask for directions – just follow these instructions.

Step 1: After unscrewing handles and knobs from the stand, sand it. Follow with two coats of paint. Let dry.

Step 2: Using a ruler, pencil and utility knife, trim maps to fit the sections of the stand you wish to cover; we left the sides unembellished.

Step 3: Brush an inch-wide strip of Plaid Mod Podge Matte glue ($3.50 for 8 ounces; createforless.com) along one edge of the underside of a map, then align it with the corresponding stand edge. Smooth with your palm. Continue, gluing a few inches at a time, smoothing as you go. Prick any air bubbles with a needle, then flatten them with your finger. Let dry.

Step 4: Varnish with Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane finish ($7; hardwarestore.com). Let dry, then reattach the handles and knobs, or replace them, like we did, with something spiffier.