Top
Subscribe for free and never miss a post

Farmhouse Side Table ~ How to Update Your Look

Earlier this week I showed you I took a curbside changing table my dad salvaged for me and turned it into a cart. I promised I would be back with more of my dad’s haul for me, and today’s the day. Out of the loot below, I’m tackling that table and turning into a farmhouse side table. Let me show you how easy it can be to update your home into the farmhouse style.

Curbside Finds from my Dad | Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Okay, so this table is not only showcasing that gorgeous orange stain (insert sarcasm), it is also standing on a broken leg. (aka. hot mess) See the back left?

Side Table Before Makeover by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

The top was scratched to oblivion because it is made of pine with a veneer to boot, but was solid enough it could be saved. The turned legs and decorative edging, though falling off, was enough to make me try to save this piece.

Curbside Side Table Top Damage | prodigalpieces.com

DIY TIME

Now let’s look at the broken leg. At some point, someone did a really bad repair job by drilling in four screws after removing 1″ chunks around the perimeter. I assume they were trying to get the damaged leg off.

Broken Table Leg | prodigalpieces.com

This was where I was like, well…let’s see what we can do. So I use my drill to back out those screws to find this…

Table Leg Bolt | prodigalpieces.com

Okay, so that’s one jerry-rigged table. ahahaha… Well, only thing to do is remove that bolt and give it a go my style. To solve this leg dilemma, I used my spade bit and drill to make new holes that would house a solid wood dowel.

Repairing Broken Table Leg | prodigalpieces.com

This would give me the tight join and support I was after for our farmhouse side table. After using some wood glue and wood filler to repair the damage, I clamped it all together to dry overnight.

Clamping Glued Table Leg | prodigalpieces.com

Once all was dry, it was time for the fun part. Woot! My sander came out to play to see if I could save any of that wood top, but alas the pressed board had been peeking through too much. This is where my littlest couldn’t wait to join in. She knew just what to do and grabbed a rag to wipe it all down.

Toddler Helping Mama Clean | prodigalpieces.com

She’s so proud of herself. awww… Then it was time to add a soft white to tone down that punkin’ orange.

BRING ON PAINT

My paint brush also comes in handy to refresh this orange little beast. Looking good already, wouldn’t you say?

Little girl got her apron on and even asked for her bandanna to “protect her hair”. She’s rockin’ it. And I gotta tell ya that that’s the best part about this paint – safe to use around my kids and so easy to apply that even a toddler can do it.

Toddler Girl Painting Farmhouse Side Table by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Once two coats were applied and cured, little girl and I distressed the paint to give it dimension. Then, I applied a poly topcoat to give it long-lasting protection.

REVEAL

Ready to see our new and improved farmhouse side table? Here it is!

Farmhouse Style Vignette with Side Table Makeover by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Rustic Farmhouse Side Table Makeover by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

It’s looking refreshed already. It has that look we’re after by just updating the paint and pull. I happened to have a spare antique glass knob that suit this just right.

White Farmhouse Side Table by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Little girl even helped me pick out some wallpaper from my vintage stash to line the drawer. She’s such an awesome helper!

Top View of White Farmhouse Table | prodigalpieces.com

I’m certainly pleased with the outcome with the leg repair and hope you are too. Just goes to show that a bit of TLC can go a long way. No need to break the bank to get the look you’re after in your home.

Farmhouse Vignette with Ladder Back Chairs and Refreshed Side Table by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

You can find this table, the pillows, and even a few other goodies available in my shop.

  • Magic Linen Beige Waffle Blanket available at Prodigal Pieces | shop.prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #bedding
    Magic Linen Waffle Blanket ~ $130

How to Add Farmhouse Style to Your Decor on a Budget by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Do pin and share to inspire other to get the look their after by rolling up their sleeves and having at it. It’s so much fun to share!

Want the farmhouse look, but on a budget? Let Prodigal Pieces show you how easy it can be. A farmhouse side table makeover you'll want to see. | Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Up next, that sad looking piano bench in the pile above will be getting new life. Head here to see that bench and see what those wooden pieces became here.

Be sure to sign up for my newsletter to get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!

blog signature

let's get socialMEWE  |  PINTEREST  |  GAB

Also, more DIY projects like this farmhouse side table:

Make Your House a Home with Thrifty Farmhouse Decor as shown by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.comFarmhouse Cupboard Makeover with Tutorial on Adding a Wall Cleat by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Comments

  1. Karen says

    The table looks great and I loved seeing your little girl in her apron & bandana. So cute

    • Larissa says

      I couldn’t help but smile at her. She had at it and couldn’t be stopped! haha..

  2. Paula says

    Great makeover! I tried Dixie Belle paint and really liked it. The Gator Hide protective finish is a new one to me and looks to be a great product.

    • Larissa says

      Of all the paints I’ve tried out there, this was had me oohing out of the jar. Glad to hear you like it too, Paula.

  3. Debrashoppeno5 says

    Great save. Your daughter is so precious. Would you believe I discovered a very similar table that I forgot I had under a pile of stuff in my garage? It must have been a popular design back in the day. And Dixie Belle paint is fantastic!

    • Larissa says

      Great minds hoard, I mean find, (ahem) alike! Yes, it sure was a popular style. Glad to hear you love Dixie Belle too!

  4. Wendy says

    The table turned out beautiful with the Dixie Belle Paint. I would refinish a table that also has the orange finish like your table did. PS Your daughter is adorable helper.

  5. Kim says

    I have a hutch and I’m thinkin that drop vloth is probably just the right color!

  6. Christina in FL says

    Sweet makeover! Thank you for the details on the fix also. 🙂 Have to get some clamps for sure. Your daughter is over the top adorable. 🙂 Love the paint and just the right amount of distressing. Thanks for all the tips!

    • Larissa says

      I need more clamps, the heavy duty kind as my hubs keeps breaking them! haha. Thanks for the love!

  7. ColleenB.~Texas says

    Oh, how I love what you had done to that cute little table.
    I have a small 3 drawer dresser and is in desperate need of a make over.
    Thank you for this giveaway opportunity

  8. Jewell Styles says

    Love how you figure out how to fix broken things. I would make over a buffet with the paint.

    • Larissa says

      It’s kinds like a challenge and brain exercise for me. I love it. Thanks for the encouraging words. 🙂

  9. Phyllis Gethers says

    I love the look, I am always trying to decide whether to paint or save the wood tone. I know you say you save wood when you can. Does it sell as well as painted? The first thing I will paint is. A sofa table

    • Larissa says

      I always go by value first, damage, then sellability. I prefer a wood/paint combo myself and so do my audience. But, when done right both sell well. Paint is still hot, but I see wood coming back in.

  10. Sue says

    I have two end tables and a coffee table that need this paint ?

  11. Carole says

    Looks so much better! Every piece of furniture that my dad made has that AWFUL orange stain on it. I can’t find enough paint to cover it all! 🙂

  12. Judy Miller says

    What a fantastic make over/repair! Thanks for showing your repair work, so informative. Keep up the great blogging.

  13. Kimberly says

    Great job as always. I have some end tables crying out for a Dixie Belle makeover as well!

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! This paint is not only good, but a vast selection of colors, stencils, stains…so much to love!

  14. Cecilia says

    That table looks so good now! Another orphan rescued and given a 2nd chance! ?
    I have an old chair that needs to be redone so I’d paint it first with Dixie Belle paint if I won! Thanks for the chance to win!

    • Larissa says

      It goes with anything and is such a soothing soft white.

  15. Rhonda says

    Your daughter is lovely. And so is the table!

  16. Sian says

    I’m inspired. I have a coffee table that needs this look.

  17. Raylene says

    Larissa,
    Love the new look of the little kitchen side table! I admire your creativity and hope to purchase some Dixie Belle paint to use on a small drop leaf table that used to be my grandmother’s. Here’s hoping I can do it justice with some guidance from your posts. Your little Miss is a cutie!

  18. Lee Ann Oliverio says

    Beautiful finish, and your little girl is so cute in her bandana and apron! She put a smile on my face this morning. I have an entire huge king bedroom suite that looks like this table “before!” I’m going to use my home right sprayer on it, thank you so very much 🙂

    • Larissa says

      She cracks me up, and so reminds me of me. haha!! Thanks Lee Ann.

  19. Rebecca Drake says

    I love the table the paint color was a good choice. And your daughter is so cute I just want to hug her!!

    • Larissa says

      It matches most anything and is why it’s a favorite. She is a doll!

  20. Dana says

    I am glad I am not the only one who likes to rescue “hopeless” furniture. It’s not that I am super green or anything, but I do enjoy making something out of nothing. Freebies are the best! You did a wonderful job on this table and what a difference can be made with a little work, and some quality finishing with good chalk paint. Keep up the good work! I enjoy the blog, it is inspiring.

    • Larissa says

      They kinda find me and beg me for new life. haha! Thanks so much, Dana.

  21. Deb says

    Your table looks perfect! You and your Daughter did a wonderful job. I am working on my second desk I think Dixie Belle Paint would do nicely!

  22. Karen Sweitzer says

    This is a great little makeover!! Paint truly makes a huge difference. . . . and. . your sweet “baby” is getting to be a big girl!! She is darling.

  23. Angie Foster says

    Beautiful restoration! As usual, you do AWESOME work! Thanks for sharing with us!

  24. Kathy E. says

    I love this makeover and the photos of your little sweetie-pie helping are just the best! My son has 2 of these side tables that I bought at an auction several years ago. You’ve given me hope that I can update them to look like yours. They look fantastic!

    • Larissa says

      That sounds like the perfect project, Kathy. So fun to give them new life. 🙂

  25. Yolanda Acevedo says

    Sweet transformation!
    Cute little apprentice!?
    To be honest, I have never used Dixie Belle paints, I do love the smooth coverage!
    Thanks for the giveaway!?

  26. Vanessa says

    What an amazing transformation…you are so talented! I enjoy your blog so much and the inspiration it brings. I recently bought a beach cottage (my future retirement home) and have filled it with rescued craigs list finds…including a queen-size bed with beautiful carvings on the head and foot boards. I plan on giving it a makeover…and it would look so beautiful painted with a “beachy” Dixie Belle color.

    • Larissa says

      High five to you, Vanessa! That’s half the fun of creating your home story. Enjoy!

  27. Marie says

    Your little helper is so adorable! Love that she wanted a bandana and apron – precious. Oh, and the table looks good as new too, better than new!

    • Larissa says

      I had to giggle over and over at how serious she was. So fun to have my kids working beside me.

  28. Anna Arthur says

    Great transformation, I would have probably passed this one by. would love to try those paints!

  29. Carrie Hemken says

    It looks lovely now and you had a great little helper!

    • Larissa says

      Fun for us both and a sweet memory for me. Thanks, Carrie.

  30. Alicia says

    I love seeing these transformations! So inspiring! Thank you!
    I have a china cabinet and a dining room table that I am going to do soon.

  31. Judy Burnside says

    Love the table! I have a similar table and coffee table of the same style that would look great with the farmhouse style. Love the chunky legs! Your little helper has a great role model in you, learning how to re-love and re-use, and make it beautiful. Thanks for all your inspiration!

    • Larissa says

      They really are fantastic pieces, especially for those chunky legs. We had fun giving this one new life. Thanks!

  32. Maryann Smith says

    I’m a beginner. I’d paint a small, wood, picnic silverware caddy I picked up at a garage sale.

  33. Kathy Nielsen says

    Larissa, All your work is the fabulous and all I can say is Dixie Bell paint is awesome as I use it on all my projects.

  34. Sue Pagels says

    Loved seeing how you repaired along with your little helper! I love to paint furniture, but don’t like the repair part! Great piece 🙂

  35. Mary says

    Love the side table. You are so talented and creative. I loved the redesign you created with the changing table. How do you think these ideas up? Just amazes me what you do!

    • Larissa says

      It is absolutely like a game for me to figure these things out. Thanks so much for giving me encouragement.

  36. Christi Norris says

    I love your make-over! And your helper. Makes me wish I had one too, 🙂 I have a “pumpkin” side table that needs some help. I think the drop-cloth color is just the ticket. Thanks for the inspiration!

    • Larissa says

      They are the best! All my guys are such huge help. Couldn’t do it without them. Have fun with that pumpkin! 😀

  37. Denise says

    Your pieces are always beautiful, but it’s the way you display them that makes them I-have-to-have-that gorgeous! I just finished redoing my mud room walls & stairs, so now I need to paint some shelves & maybe a footstool to put in there!

    • Larissa says

      Awww…that means much. Thank you. It takes much time to do it, but I love it. Makes it all the more fun.

  38. Melinda says

    Love it and your little helper!

  39. Patty Soriano says

    Larissa I have a similar table with the narrow grooves cut into the top. I want to fill in those grooves and paint it. Need something on the top that will help to fend off cat claws. Can’t keep the kitties off this table in the middle of the living room, so I’m hoping there is something that will protect the finish.

    • Patty Soriano says

      the Pin It entry says “DIY arbor” but I’m guessing you meant the table. ???

    • Larissa says

      You could used wood filler, but depending on the reason for them it may crack over time. A good epoxy would do it.

  40. Kathleen says

    I have a couple of “Trashures” I’ve picked up and wanted to repurpose for outside…this post is inspiring me to FINISH at least one and cover it in GATOR HIDE!

  41. Vicki says

    I love all of your makeovers! I can’t believe you can fix all that broken furniture yourself. If I win, I’d paint an end table as well!

    • Larissa says

      It’s kinda like a challenge and I love to figure it out. Thanks, Vicki!

  42. Debra Wise says

    Outstanding repair job and finished table. Love your little helper – looks like she’s following in mama and sibling’s footsteps! Would love to win the Dixie Belle paints as I have several projects I would like to work on.

    • Larissa says

      She is so anxious to do it. Now I have to hide and paint! ahahaha…

  43. Lisa Dickens says

    Ohmygosh your daughter is a mini you – so adorable! I have tried Dixie Belle paint and am really liking it. I would like to paint my bathroom cabinets. Thanks!

    • Larissa says

      haha…she sure is in more ways than one. I’m happy to hear you like it too!

  44. Kaycee F says

    Larissa, you and your little girl did a wonderful job on this farm house style table! I especially love how you involved your daughter in the makeover and not having to worry about nasty chemicals! Awesome job girls!!!

  45. Cindy Downing says

    Loved your table. I really like that color and i want to use that color on a set of side tables i have.

  46. stacey says

    I have two off those exact tables at home. I’ve been wanting to paint them. I’m just scared to do the distressing part!

    • Larissa says

      No worries, Stacey. That’s the easy part! You can always paint over it and try again.

  47. Melissa says

    So cute. Both your little girl and end table. I would love to try Dixie Belle products. I have lots of things to paint.

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! I am partial to the girl. hahaha. 😀 You will love them!

  48. Kyla says

    I love seeing your furniture flips, you’re very creative and it inspires me to try more! I’d love to give Dixie Belle a try, possibly to paint the built-in cupboard in my guest bath or my vintage pantry door.

  49. Cheryl says

    This was an inspiring project and your sweet wee helper just made it that more special. I have three vintage cabinets in my kitchen that badly need new lives – preferably in a very soft wedgewood blue chalk finish.

  50. Cheryl B. says

    Not only is your table great.I love the wooden box on top with all of the cubbies.&Your little in her apron and bandana adorables.

    • Larissa says

      Love a wooden tote to no end! 😀 Thanks, Cheryl. She is my sweetie.

  51. Rebecca - Knoxville,TN says

    Love the project, simple but so dramatically different. Little girl is so sweet trying to help. What beautiful memories she is making!
    I would paint a round table that just got dumped in my garage because it didn’t fit in middle son’s new college apartment 😉

    • Larissa says

      She is such a great helper and knows so much already. Thank you!

  52. Kelly Youngblood says

    Another A+ makeover Larissa, but every bit as impressive is the assistance you get from your family — toddlers included! The Dixie Bell paint looks amazing and I have just the dresser screaming to meet it!

    • Larissa says

      They are such wonderful help in so many ways. Thank you, Kelly.

  53. Charlene says

    What a perfect outcome to an “I’m still good” piece of furniture. Your little girl is precious & you are truly blessed!!!!!!!!

  54. Karen Graham says

    Hi Larissa, Drop Cloth is one of my favorite Dixie Belle colors,too. Such a soft white that seems to fit every where I use it. It has transformed many a roadside rescue, around here!Also, luvin Duck Egg at the moment. Wish I could hire your helper! She’s such a serious worker.

    • Larissa says

      It goes with anything and any style. She sure is a hard workin’ toddler! 😀

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Client Love

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

~ Laurel

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:34:13-04:00

~ Laurel

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

~ Stephanie

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:39:34-04:00

~ Stephanie

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

~ Mikki

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:43:16-04:00

~ Mikki

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

Awww…I love this sweet Cat with an attitude!! SO SO adorable! Well worth the money, and he will become a priceless treasure in my home! Thanks Larissa for always making your ideas turn into true treasures!

~ Sharon

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:45:37-04:00

~ Sharon

Awww…I love this sweet Cat with an attitude!! SO SO adorable! Well worth the money, and he will become a priceless treasure in my home! Thanks Larissa for always making your ideas turn into true treasures!

Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!

~ Deanna

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:52:00-04:00

~ Deanna

Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!
0
0
Prodigal Pieces