Joyful Endeavors: Coffee Table DIY

Several years ago I went garage sale hunting for a coffee table. I found this bargain table. It’s a bit large though, and when my mom first saw it, her first exclamation was “IT’S HUGE!!” That’s a good sign, right? Ha!

Since then, this coffee table has been the center of many exam cram sessions, bible study discussions with sweet friends, and tasty cooking adventures. I’ve wanted to class it up a bit though, since it is very scratched up and the color doesn’t really match the rest of my furniture. Since I’ve had a whole winter break off from school, this seemed the perfect time to delve into this diy.

Thanks to Pinterest, there were several redo ideas I’d found. First, I found this typography table at the Wild Ink blog.

Next I found this awesome pattern painted on a dresser.

I decided I’d use a dark color and keep a rustic look like the letterpress table but would also use the dresser’s design to paint on top.

I started by using my dad’s palm sander to sand down the table. I used medium grit, then fine grit. For some of the curved corners and spaces I had to hand sand the table with the appropriate grit. I think it would have been easier to start out with a larger grit sandpaper first though, and to then work down to medium and small grit. This was the finished surface- it still has some minor dents but I like the rustic look.

Next I picked up a can of Dark Walnut Minwax stain. Make sure when you mix up the stain that you just stir the can and don’t shake it in order to prevent air bubbles. I applied the first coat with a foam brush, using back and forth strokes. I let the stain set for 15 minutes and then wiped it off with a clean rag. Make sure you do this in a well ventilated area. I did the staining outside thanks to our amazing warm southern winter weather, but still managed to get quite a headache from the fumes- a mask might be a good idea!