Side Table Makeover

Today I thought I’d share a recent makeover we completed of two matching side tables.

 These babies are the real deal – solid pine through and through and super sturdy with count ’em – 6 legs!  They are most likely from the 70’s and were in good condition when we found them… other than needing to be revived with a more current aesthetic.

So for this project, I striped the table tops using stripping gel and then went over them with an orbital sander to remove any residue.

I used Minwax dark walnut stain and then applied several coats of polyacrylic for a smooth, hard-wearing surface.

For the  legs and frame I did a very light hand sanding and then applied  Miss Mustard Seed’s milk paint in “grain sack”.   I added bonding agent (also from Miss Mustard Seed) to the paint to get a  stronger adhesion.

Here’s what they looked like after the first coat of milk paint (Yes, I painted them on my kitchen island).  One of the great things about milk paint is it is completely natural so ventilation is not an issue.

After the second coat, I lightly sanded them where ever  I wanted a chippy finish – this is what Miss Mustard Seed’s milk paint is  known for.  If you want a lot of chippy, then you don’t need to add the bonding agent.  I finished up with two coats of polyacrylic for a smooth, durable finish.

These tables would look great in a living room or even in a bedroom as bedside tables.  For added height next to a tall bed, they can be layered with books.

I love how the milk paint brought out the detail in each of the legs.

We are selling the set for $165 if anyone needs a great pair of side tables!  They are currently listed in our etsy store and are available for local pickup.