Ooh…it’s always a wonderful thing when a thing has gorgeous turned legs with inset marble and is ripe for a refresh. eep! For instance, like this trash bin and vintage shelf recently. That’s what leads me to this project and my goal is to show you how to paint marble.
This table is definitely eye-catching in design, but the marble top is showing wear, as well as the wood base itself. Plus, the vibe is dark and maybe you have something similar that you’d like to update to make it your own. I know sometimes we want to update our home and think we need to get rid of everything and start over. However, there’s no need when we can change up what we have to make it better fit our style.
That’s when it’s time to take this ol’ lovely apart and see what I’m facing. Let the fun begin!
STUDY & DESIGN
First, I pop out the marble inset and give it a good cleaning with rubbing alcohol. That allows the surface to be rid of any residues and ready for the primer. In the past, I’ve used this same BIN primer by Zinsser to hide bleed-through from stains, and also conceal cigarette smoke/musty odors like in this entertainment center turned wardrobe and this French provincial desk. To get a smooth base coat, I use a micro foam roller and apply one coat.
When you use this stuff, you want gloves, goggles, and especially an organic respirator. It works awesome, but the chemicals are nasty. Use it outside or with oodles of ventilation. Also, if you want to paint your tile floors, this is the best product for it as well.
NEXT STEPS
Meanwhile, I tackle the table base. I set up my tools with my DIY furniture turn table to make this job a breeze.
Then, I apply a coat of a custom color paint I mixed up that is reminiscent of a summer sky. I originally mixed it for my dining room ceiling which I have yet to show you. Here it is after the first coat…doesn’t it look white? Trust me, it’s a very soft blue with a hint of green.
The table eventually gets two coats and let cure. After that, I paint two coats of white acrylic latex paint on the marble to give it a backdrop for stenciling. This time, I’m using the same French script stencil I’ve used on this Art Deco buffet or this curbside desk.
Last, but not least, I add a few accents to the table base and poly to the marble inset.
THE REVEAL
Finally, the table is refreshed and ready with an entire new look. Would you guess it’s the same table?
It’s crazy how a little changing can make such a huge difference. The table is now lighter and brighter, and even has a little love note on it too.
The legs are my favorite part as I’m always a sucker for turnings. Also, can you see the slight white accents I added to the details?
In addition, the best part about these tables is that they can go most anywhere – bedside, entry, living, bath…you get the idea. Where would you use it?
If you’d like to make this table a part of your home story, you can find it and more available in my online store.
SHARE
While I’m all about having fun with my creations, I’m also about inspiring others to take a turn with their own projects and create a cozy, inviting home. Pin and share to inspire others!
>>>>>> Before you head off, leave some comment love below and be sure to sign up for my newsletter. I’m sharing an update on my own self next that I’m eager to share with you. Until next time!
Also, more tutorials for hard to paint furniture like this how to paint marble tutorial:
Ohhh wow, that table is exactly the type of furniture I look for in my antique booths. This little beauty is one of my favorite makeovers you have done, although it’s really hard to choose! It’s perfectly beautiful?
You are a kindred spirit, Sheryl! The design is totally my thing. I wish I had room to keep it for my daughter’s room! 😀
Once again you stretch the imagination! I would never have thought marble could be painted and would have discounted it. Once again, you’ve opened up a new world of possibilities!! Love it!!! ???
And, once again, you sure know how to make me smile, Rebecca. Yes, you can’t paint hearths, tile, pretty much anything your heart desires. So fun!
Another beauty!! I really like the new inset with the script. Looks much more personal than the dark marble. Thanks for continuing to inspire us all! Have a blessed week.
That’s so good to hear, Judy. Thank you! I have been working so hard behind the scenes and am excited to share with you all.
This is such a pretty makeover, Larissa, and I adore what you did with the marble inset. Good ole tried and true Zinsser primer for the win!
Right? I just love that stuff. Sticks to anything, blocks smoke and stains, and even can be tinted!
Needed a break yesterday and ended up deleting everything in a fit of “I’m too lazy” So I had to resubscribe today.
Anywhooo this is a great little table Larissa!!! Was that real marble or man made faux marble? Faux anything gives me the heebie-jeebie’s. I like the soft colors and yes turned anything makes me happy as well. When I am stressed sometimes I’ll watch YouTube videos of woodworkers turning the lathe. It’s very relaxing.
I totally feel you, Niki. haha. It is real marble and I agree about faux marble as well. I’ve always wanted to learn the lathe, such a relaxing art.