What’s more fun than finding one antique table? Finding two! Yes, that’s right. A few days ago, I shared the first damaged table in my haul that receives a DIY French transfer. Although, this time around, check out this hidden gem behind quilted curtain number one that was donated by a young 92-year-old gal. Any guesses? I spy feet peeking out…tee hee! To be sure, it’s an antique tilt top table.
What is a tilt top table, you say? Well, first, you can see one I found curbside turned into a pink cutie over HERE. To sum it up, it’s basically a sweet tea table that folds up against the wall and out of the way. However, many times, the table also showcases gorgeous artwork in European styles.
As you can see, this one has artwork applied to it at one time and it is not original. Also, while this is a pretty awesome table from the 1920’s, it is a hack of a higher quality made table. In all honesty, this original label cracks me up!
As a matter of fact, notice the “Imitated – never duplicated” part. haha!
STRIPPING TIME
To start, if you look at the table with the art facing you, you’ll see the damage that someone was trying to cover up. First, I want to change this up, so I apply a paint stripper to the artwork.
Second, I smear around the stripper (not me…the CitriStrip…ahem) and cover with plastic wrap to let rest of about an hour. Even more, you can see how I’ve used CitriStrip in past projects HERE. Actually, the top is not made of wood, but rather a manufactured material simulated to look like leather.
Meanwhile, I grab my nail punch and sink in the popped-up nails all around the perimeter of the tabletop, as well as tighten up the braces underneath.
Then, as soon as the stripper has cut into the paint, I take my putty knife and gently scrap off what I can. Admittedly, seeing that palette of colors makes me…eep!…eager to paint!
PUNCH OF COLOR
Next, as I let the spot dry on the tabletop, I break out my latest exciting second’s color. Sigh…isn’t it gorgeous? As soon as I saw it, I thought…”poppies” and my mind reels at the possibilities.
This is the color for the base of the table. In contrast, for the top of the table, I’m using my custom mix color that will be the base color or “canvas”.
As soon as the paint cures on top, I begin to add the art I had envisioned when I saw the poppy paint color. I often share how much I enjoy painting freehand but lack the time to really do what I like. This time around, I’m crunched for time and while I try as I might…I have a bit of a distraction. tsk
Granting that Loula repeatedly interrupted with paw on my shoulder, even knocking the table on my head giving me my first gray hairs, I actually got to paint while she slept. What is more, you can see my technique in part on this vintage Bassett buffet or my blending technique on this antique dresser or this Mid Century chest.
POPPY LOVE
Finally, after a small bit of time actually painting, my antique tilt top table makeover is complete. {{huge sigh of relief with applause}}
Not only does that fun poppy color really add a literal pop to the room, but that flowers steal my heart.
Now, let’s see this cutie-patootie upright, shall we?
Basically, just as described, the top tilts up, the legs extend out, and you’re ready for teatime. I love it!
As a final point, for the finish I apply a brown wax over the poppy color. Meanwhile, the top receives a couple coats of a matte poly.
While I had a blast recreating this antique tilt top table, my goal, as always, is to inspire you. For you to create your own story with your own project. Additionally, if you’d like to make this a part of your home, you can find it in my online store.
SHARE
In the meantime, I invite you to pin and share to inspire others. Not only do I know that tackling a project can seem daunting, but I’m also here to help.
Likewise, before you go, make sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter. It’s Trash to Treasure time with this vintage filing box I snagged. Come see the after over HERE.
Until next time!
Also, more fun makeovers like this antique tilt top table:
Oh, how pretty! I wish I could do freehand painting, but I’m a word person and not an artist person. You do such a beautiful job!
This sure puts me in the mood for spring. It tickles me that you enjoy it so, Noelle. Thank you!!
What a gorgeous piece of art!!! …. a real statement piece!!!! It’s like getting two for the price of one!! A beautiful painting and a functional table??? Yes, please!!!!! This table transformation has the feel of your own. Like your haircut, it’s brighter, happier and full of affirmations that you are as wonderful as we have always known!!! You are soooo inspiring!!! I’ve followed your lead and have lost my 50 “care giver” pounds!!! Thanks for being such a great example to us all!! 💕
Thank you!! I couldn’t wait to give it my own touch. Funny thing is that I literally slapped that on in 20 minutes because I had to beat the dog! haha! I’m so delighted you enjoy it. and…50 pounds??? AHMAAAAAAAZING!! You go girl! Just so you know…I’m happy dancing for you!
ADORABLE!
You are so fun! Thank you for the giggle, Trudy. 😀
Spring is in the air!! What a fun color pallet. Tilt top and drop leaf are, I think; my favorite little tables. It only got to 40 here and will be again today but I was out on my stoop barefoot with out a coat!
Yahoo! I just saw my first robin so that made my whole day. Thanks for the love, Niki. I was outside barefoot and also went outside on a run and it felt so warm at 40 degrees!
Beautiful! Love your painting. So pretty and SPING LOOKING. Girl you are very talented. Love your hair cut as well. I am impressed you can cut your own hair, especially the back which is difficult. Tale care and God bless you.
I’m so in the mood for spring! Thank you for bringing a smile to my face, Charleen. I guess I’ve had oodles of practice for the back as far as layering, but always prefer to ask for help to check the bottom edge. Hugs to you!
Ohhh my. This tilt top table is adorable. Such a fun way to have both art and function.
And that color screammmmed poppies for sure. 🙂
Beautifully done. Thanks for sharing.
I have spring on my brain! 😀 I just love pieces like this that do just that. This was fun and gave me a bit of color on these gray days. Thanks!
love the new short, curly hair on you! you look so much younger and so cute!!
tee hee! I sure enjoy it so and it’s been a learning curve…literally. 😉 Thanks!
Love that drop tilt table.
Beautiful artwork on such a wonderful table. Them pop-peas :-}, they look great. You R soooooooo talented in more ways than 1. Great job.
Sweetie; I must say, you really rock with that sexy haircut. What a great change, you look absolutely adorable. It really suits you. (2 thumbs up ).
There are times in our lives when change is a good thing. I , myself have gone through many changes,
Thanks so much for the love, Colleen. I love sharing my passions in any form and it means the world to me to hear from you. Sending hugs!
I LOVE the transformation you gave this table! The red base combined with your lovely poppy painting is gorgeous. You are so extraordinarily talented Larissa!
My biggest joy is that it went to a home where it will be loved and displayed with love as well. Thank you for your everlasting loving comments, Marie. Miss ya!