OK, you know those dated, your grandma-had-one tables that you often see at thrift stores or auctions? You know the ones....
Sometimes it's hard to find these little tables in solid wood. I was lucky enough to come across one for a steal at one of our local thrifts - along with this tray (with awful ivy stencil. Yikes!). A makeover couldn't come fast enough!
I've been waiting to do this to one of these tiny, two-tiered tables:
That's right! Remove that awkward 1/3 of the table addition. It's super easy - just a little 'unscrewing' on the underside of the table.
At this point I also took the opportunity to get rid of some of the wobbly-ness of the table by tightening the legs. So many people pass up great items at thrift stores because of a little wobbling. This can always be fixed, people! Do not be deterred by the wobble!!
I wanted to coordinate the tray and the table to have them work together as a set. I see them out in a sunroom or on the porch or balcony this summer! You can prep cool drinks and snacks in the kitchen, carry them outside on the tray, and serve them on the table. Yes, I think SO!
After I finished both graphics, I felt that the 'At Home' graphic (c/o The Graphics Fairy as always!) needed to be 'bolder' to blend more seamlessly with the frame graphic on the table.
These graphics are added using the regular technique - I use a projector and permanent marker. There are all kinds of techniques you can use to transfer graphics. I prefer my way because it gives me the most control over my image and I can play around with placement a lot before committing to a design.
The final step was to dry brush on a layer of off-white paint over the top of the table and inside the tray. This gave the whole thing an aged feel and served to tone down the darkness of the graphic. I also distressed the table legs, top, and tray.
Can't wait for summer!!
Wow, I'd never thought to remove that horrid third shelf. I have new respect for those tables that yes, you see EVERYWEHRE. Thanks for the idea. Question. Do you spray a fixitive on your permanent marker before painting the top coat of paint or sealer?
ReplyDeleteHi Erin, thanks for stopping by....no, I don't spray or brush on a fixative before I paint on the top coat of paint or sealer. I do usually let things sit for a day or longer, though. Also, the floor finish I've been using recently is 'Varathane Nano Defence Premium Clear Floor Finish.' I like semi-gloss, but that's personal preference. I love it - it doesn't yellow, dries hard and generally streak-free!
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