Ever find yourself saying, “That’s just too good to pass up”? More often than most, I find that’s my mantra. Though my idea of what’s good vastly contrasts that of what others believe is good. Take, for instance, this vintage French provincial side table. It’s made by the Mersman furniture company and built to last.
However, it’s fallen into a bit of disrepair and needs some lovin’ attention. As you know, that’s my kinda good because potential is obvious and my DIY spirit calls me to take this stray in. It’s missing some hardware, has some damage to attend to, but all-in-all it’s solid and certainly offers oodles of storage space.
MAKEOVER TIME
First, I assume you can see how I’m smitten with the style with the ornate details and the potential to be useful in many rooms of the home. Now, I just need to find out what I’m dealing with – particularly on the top with the gouge. That is when I break out my sand paper and see if I can salvage the top from the gouge.
Unfortunately, the gouge is into the next layer as well as a few other spots. So, that means I need to paint. Often times people run their mouth and say I “slap paint on anything”. Not at all. I do my best to salvaged what I can even hauling “junk” off of yard to rescue them. Ah well…some just don’t get it. However, I can use techniques that will give it a wood look like this buffet using a glazing technique or this antique wash stand.
First, I begin with a custom mix in a beige tone, applying two coats letting cure in between.
Then, I prepare the bottom for a different sort of technique. I start with this blue (Serenity Blue) I’ve also used on a #trashure bread box and a thrifted tote.
WASHING UP
Next, once all my first coats are cured it’s time to do the next layers. I use a seconds color and a spray bottle of water to do this technique which is the same manner I use the frottage technique. I spray water lightly, then using a brush lightly filled with paint and wipe in one direction focusing heavier on the edges. Last, I use a metallic paint, Warm Silver, to highlight the accents I painted in the same color as the top as well as glaze the top.
Finally, to seal it all up I use a matte poly on the top, and a gray wax on the bottom.
THE FINISH
Here’s this vintage French provincial side table ready for many more years in its gilded glory.
Thankfully, I was able to find knobs in my stash to replace the missing ones. In addition, I’m pleased with the outcome in general even with the top originally having damage.
It’s kinda hard to see the metallic glazing in this view, but maybe you can see it better in this look.
Oh, and don’t forget the spacious inside…perfect for tucking away throws, or maybe make it into a pet palace.
Finally, as with most all of my projects, this table is available in my online store along with many other fun finds and creations.
Additionally, I’m always about inspiring you to get your hands dirty in some DIY fun making your own home story. Likewise, pin and share to inspire others too.
Before you go!! Make sure to sign up for my newsletter to see what becomes of this curbside find below. Head HERE to see that curbside table now. eep!
Also, more makeovers like this vintage French Provincial side table:
Tres bien!! ?? What a gorgeous finish. Love that you show in detail how you get such amazing results!! ?
Merci, Rebecca! 😀 It’s always fun for me to share my passion and hearing from those I write to makes it even sweeter.
Beautiful save. The paint colors and type of finish is perfect.
You have made my day, Rita. I sure had fun reviving it. Thank you!
Hi Larissa! Great makeover for this little Frenchie. I love it.
doin’ a happy dance! Thank you, Cheryl. Fun!
My mother loved French Provincial but me not so much. I was sent her dining room furniture and refinished it in cherry but sold it when we downsized. I have a new love for FP now and would love to have the dining set back. This is so beautiful! Larissa!
Isn’t it funny how times change our tastes? It’s a fun life adventure for sure. Thank you for the love, Fran!
Very cool Larissa. I am usually a naked wood person and from what I know of you and some of your past comments you prefer it too- however sometimes there is just bad wood, gouged wood, ugly wood, and nasty grain patterns were paint just works better. This little end table turned out great! See you Thursday or maybe not. I’m busy getting ready for my middles graduation…..eeekkk!!
Thanks! Yes, I love wood better fo’ sho’, but sometimes paint just does it. I am taking Thursday to catch up at home tackling my basement and workshop messes after a very long winter. Be back Tuesday! And congratulations to you and your child. Enjoy!
I so look forward to your make overs, upcycles, etc. I am always amazed at the outcome! You are sooo creative!!
That sure does make my heart happy, Angela. I do what I do because I love it and I get to share it with you. Thank you!
This is so pretty. I don’t usually care for F P type pieces, but this I like. Maybe my taste is changing also.
Its gorgeous Larissa! So glad you saved this beautiful piece from who knows what! Its beautiful and functional too – so much storage! Great upcycle project! Have a good productive rest of your week…this weather is gorgeous too and we just have to take advantage of it when we can. Blessings!
It sure was a blast to give it a try. Thanks so much, Mary. I’m tired, but getting caught up feeling is worth its weight in gold.
Such a lovely piece, Larissa! It’s just gorgeous! I’m sure it’s probably already sold because it’s a WINNER!!
awww…thanks so much, Caye. You’re sweet! 😀
Dang, too bad I reside in another country because this pretty little french lady would look so good in my living room! Well done as always, Larissa.
I just love your home and it would fit in perfectly, Marie! I so wish I could run up and give ya hug. Thank you.
Beautifully done!!
I’m always amazed at your visions!
You are so very sweet to say so, Barbara. Thank you!
This side table is so attractive. Wow 🙂
It’s great to hear that. Thank you for saying so. 😀
I just picked you this exact end table for 1 dollar at a garage sale. I’m going to restore it and use it as a coffee table (I have a very small den and a full size coffee table is too big).
That’s an awesome score! I hope you have fun with it, Janie.