The piece of furniture is now becoming a common sale item in second-hand stores and, sometimes, selling them isn't easy.

But the innovative staff at Muswellbrook's Lifeline store have initiated a new project they call 'upcycling.'

The concept is new and it's transforming TV cabinets into great new household items, such as shelving for a children's play area in the kitchen.

The cabinet (pictured) will eventually feature a pantry with a blackboard door, fibre board with a plastic cover will imitate the refrigerator on the other taller door and the inner section will feature a stove top and sink.

Store manager, Annie Millward, has been impressed with the innovation that is coming out of the minds of volunteers and staff.

"We have had all sorts of ideas [with] the stove top being made out of painted placemats," she said.

She added that the broader Muswellbrook community is engaging in the idea, with donations coming from Garlicks Hardware, Edmund Joinery, Muswellbrook Tile and Paint, and Home Timber and Hardware.

"We hope to do one or two projects a month, it is bringing new life to some of our old furniture and it's been really good because some of our people are taking ownership of the projects and it's been interesting listening and seeing the ideas come to life," Annie said.

Ms Millward added that the store has received support from many people in Muswellbrook, including an electrician who wants to remain anonymous.

"Without him volunteering his time to check all the donated electrical appliances and tagging them, we wouldn't be allowed to sell them, so it's a service we greatly appreciate," Annie said.