Do you ever purchase something because you feel sorry for it? Like, you see it sitting there looking sad, and you don’t need it, but you know you could give it new life? That’s what happened when I spied this Ethan Allen table that someone was selling. I was actually purchasing other items from this person and had them lump it into my sale. Why not, right?
These classic vintage pieces were made to last and have such fun designs. The only major problem with this one was that the top decal has flaking off, as was the paint over the rest, and it had water rings from being used as a plant stand. The signature Ethan Allen stamp was on the bottom, so I figured I would give it a go.
DIY TIME
The simple floral pattern was pretty but needs to come off. I spy beautiful maple wood below that decal, so I grab my sander and had at it. I love this tool and the power it gives me to make things new.
It all came off pretty easily, so on to the next step. I applied a couple coats of two different stains (1) Early American and (2) Espresso to give it a deep rich color.
TIME FOR PAINT
As for the rest, it was time for some paint. If you know me, my favorite finish is a paint/stain combo. My vision had me creating this table to have a cottage chic flair, so I use a soft shade of pink. You can see it in action on my vintage vanity makeover in this post.
My littlest even wanted in on the action, so I let her have a go at it. Look at her tongue action…hee hee hee. She’s not new to this game, as are my other 5 kids. You can see her table makeover (with help) HERE.
Now I have the stain and paint done, time for adding that cottage vibe. I find therapy in hand-painting, do you? Since I wanted to stay true to the original design of this table, I recreated the top design in my own style with a soft palette.
FINE DETAILS
THE REVEAL
Last, I added a couple of coats of a poly topcoat. This helps protect the wood and my artwork. Finally, this little Ethan Allen table is sporting a new look.
When refinishing a piece, I really do try to stay true to its character and draw out the best features. The sweetness of this Ethan Allen table and the quality of craftsmanship really drew me in.
I’ve always thought these size table fit in nicely in most any spot of your home. If you’d like to own this table, you can find it available with all my other work and finds in my online shop.
My goal is to inspire you to give DIY a try. Do pin and share to give others that boost of confidence they need to have so they too can make their house their home.
Up next, as promised I am showing you the reveal of this armoire from my Lexington set I revealed HERE. See the after of this one HERE.
Before you go, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!
Also, more furniture makeovers like this Ethan Allen table:
Love it, and love that you added the floral design.
Thank you, Melissa. That was fun for me.
Nice job, Larissa, it looks so pretty! You always inspire me with your makeovers. And your little one is adorable…those tiny toes!
Yes, love tiny toes!! Don’t know what I’d do without them. 😉
Gorgeous free-hand painting my dear!!! LOVE IT!!! You’re amazing – the best I can paint free are little stick figures. HAHA
You are so sweet to say so, Cathy. Thank you!
Love it. Great job Larissa! Your free hand painting is so gorgeous. You never cease to amaze me with your creativity!
Thanks for saying so, Debra. I had fun!
Oh my gosh, your little helper is so adorable and quite focused with that tongue action going on. I wish I could say I’ve mastered the square brush like you’ve shown here. I still need tape OR more practice. Not only are you a uber talented DIYer but an artist too! Love how you created your version of the decals on the much nicer stained table top. Very pretty!
She has such a way with getting me to let her join in the fun. hahaha. Thanks so much, Marie!
Larissa you have done it justice! Beautiful colors and the addition of the flowers is the crowning glory!
You are so kind, Mary. I really wanted to give this new life, and am happy you like it. Thank you!
I’m curious how you mixed the stains. Did you apply the lighter coat, let it dry, then apply the darker coat? Or did you mix them together prior to application? I love both colors but tend towards the Early American. I do like the look you created by mixing the two together. Thank you for sharing your techniques!
Depends. This time around I went with Early American first, then added the Espresso. I didn’t want the Espresso to be to dark so I used the EA as a base. Hope that helps!
I’m not usually a pink kinda girl, but I love this table.
Saweet!! Thank you so much, Donna.