The 2^nd Annual Furniture Flip Design Challenge is underway!

The idea: transform discarded furniture and home accessories into distinctive one-of-a-kind art, furniture and home décor pieces. The catalyst: Participating artists and designers will be up-cycling items found at the Bend Area Habitat ReStore and other area thrift stores in celebration of Earth Day.

Now in its second year, the ReStore’s Furniture Flip is a golden opportunity for all you creative types to strut your stuff during a festive community-wide event held at the Bend Area ReStore. And this year, participants will have a variety of ways in which to do just that. Folks who like to think big can tackle all three of our designated categories (which will be revealed at a later date) and produce three different creations, or those who prefer to focus their energy may submit one or two designs from the category of their choosing.

DESIGN FYI

If you’re interested in participating in the Flip, please submit your application by March 11 (today is the last day!). You’ll have one month to shop, design and up-cycle your creations. We’ll also give you $25 ReStore dollars to go toward the creation of each piece you produce in one or all of our three categories. You’re also free to shop elsewhere for components of your design (preferably at other area resale shops).

And here’s great news for those who aren’t sure they have all the tools necessary to assemble their masterpieces: DIYcave, Bend’s original makerspace, is providing all the Flip designers free access to its well-stocked shop for an entire month.

EVENT DETAILS

The Furniture Flip reveal event is April 23 from 7-9 p.m., at the Bend Area Habitat ReStore, which will showcase all the Flip entries — both inside and outside the store. During the event, all the designs will be for sale, auction-style.

As part of the festivities, Shred Town’s food truck will be on hand in the ReStore parking lot, to satisfy any hungry guests.  Thirsty guests: Bring a mug, or buy one at the event, for Cascade Lakes beer, Humm Kombucha, or Dutch Bros. coffee.

A panel of judges will determine several “Best in Show” awards; the announcement of the winners will be made at 9 p.m. Flip attendees will also have a say in the awards; with each ticket purchased, you can cast a vote for the piece deemed “People’s Choice.”

Tickets are $5 per person. You can purchase them at the Bend Area Habitat ReStore for $5, or 5 for $20. Proceeds benefit Bend Area Habitat for Humanity projects.

Thanks for supporting the environment, the arts, and our community by participating in this year’s Furniture Flip!