Do you ever feel like your frayed at the edges? I’m sure this is how this damaged side table feels. It’s from the 1920’s era with oodles of style to showcase the craftsmanship of the time. The scalloped style edge, the inlaid veneer, and the tapered legs on the pedestal with claw feet…most of them present. I’m thinking with some elbow grease and TLC it will live to tell many more stories. Don’t you agree?
Missing veneer that was once the forte of this piece is now a testimony to the life it’s lived. Maybe the wear is telling of love and life telling a story, much like we all have no matter what our age. The best part is, we know we have a Creator that sees the potential in us all.
Well, you all know I’m a sucker for the downcast, the misfit, the damaged and worn. Hence the name I chose for my work, Prodigal Pieces. With that in mind, you can see my project gallery to see all the projects from my workshop.
RESTORATION TIME
Okay, let’s get this makeover party started! First, I’m going to tackle that veneer using my putty knife to see what I’m up against. At first, I thought I might need to use my towel soak method to remove it smoothly.
However, I’m happy to say that with a little elbow grease, most of it came off by peeling it. Before I head out to my sander, I need to use wood filler to patch the places where the wood is damaged.
Meanwhile, while the filler cures, I begin to tackle the pedestal base. Since there are only two brass claw feet, I remove them and save them for a future repair. Then, I paint the base a very light, soft mint green color.
As for the top, I use a basic white to roll onto the surface once it’s sanded and ready to go. Additionally, I want the scalloped edge to have a contrast with a soft gray.
FINISHING DETAILS
Last, but not least, I need to add finishing touches to take this damaged side table makeover to a magnifique level. oui? Because I remove the brass feet, they look kinda boring. To remedy that I could try to track down replacements like I did for the antique lyre table I did shown at the bottom of this post. However, this time around, I am painting them to look like brass instead.
I begin with a base color of burnt umber, then follow what with a metallic English brown. Then, once cured, I apply a bit of highlights using my antique bronze.
As for the top, you know I adore my typography when I can use it, so I head to The Graphics Fairy to snag this graphic. To apply, I use my transfer method and then hand-paint it all in.
OOH LA LA
Finally, here is my sweet side table with a fresh new look and a bit of French flair. I’m smitten!
Who knew that the potential is there? me!! haha. Honestly, though, it really is all about willing to try. As well, taking the time to add a personal touch.
Feeling inspired yet? I sure hope so! As always, motivating you to see past the obvious is my goal with each project I tackle. Maybe you can find one of your own inspiring pieces…when you do send me an email!
With that in mind, you can find this sweet table and much more available in my online shop.
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While you’re at it, take a minute to leave comment love below, as well as pin and share to spread the inspiration.
Before you go, you might want to see what I have my sights set on for my next project. Yup. Recycling. See my end results HERE.
Make sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter to see the end result. PLUS, you will get your free Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!
Also, here are more antique finds like this damaged side table makeover:
TWO adorable “makeovers!!!” I’m so thrilled you have a new little(?🤣) love muffin!!!! You’ve been in my thoughts and prayers a lot lately. I’m sending you extra hugs this week!!! 🥰
tee hee! My pup-date was a fun one and I’m eager to see her (and I both) grow. Thank you for the coveted prayers. <3
Cute table. I like all the edges in the top of it, and how nice for the chippy veneer to come right off for you. I’m not feeling real inspired lately- but I do appreciate you. 😊 I’ll be praying for sunshine to chase away any gloom. I can hear the wind blowing here this morning and there is a definite chill in out drafty home.
Yes, those edges and the legs got me going on this one. I’m honestly not feeling it because of pup-business, but also arctic blast winds. I have windburn from my walk with her this morning. brrr!!!
Most everything would have left it ignored that cute table because of the veneer, but not you, (of course!) You encourage us to see that the veneer can go, I was always afraid because I thought it would have to be repaired, and I don’t have that skill. However, you show us that it can come off Woohoo! Another adorable makeover! Make that two makeovers😄
tee hee! I’m so glad you are finding encouragement through my DIY fun. I sure aim to beef up anyone’s confidence to try. Thanks for the love on my work. Yay!
Such nice makeovers – for both your sweet pup and the chippy table.
So wonderful to see that sad table made happy again !!
Thanks.
Thank you. One wore me out and the other gave me stress relief. haha! 😀
You inspire me. I see pieces of furniture etc differently. This table is quite lovely.
It’s so fun to imagine what they can be, isn’t it? Thank you, Rita.