This beautiful table was my very first up cycle project and the most difficult project yet! I decided to pick this for my first ever Pinterest inspired project, so advice for you all - start small ladies!
This project definitely cost the most and took the most amount of time though it was well worth all of the time that I spent! The table itself has a lot of meaning to me as my grandfather who passed away built the table for me. I also feel that this is why I was so hard on myself while doing this project. I did not want to ruin something special to me.
Also, another important lesson I learnt in choosing such a large first project.. make SURE you have ALL of the supplies you need before starting. I ended up sanding the entire time table with tiny sheets of sanding paper, for my next up-cycle I will be buying a hand held sander (much more efficient & quicker!)
I spent about three solid days sanding every little section of the table and then was finally ready to get to staining. I also recommend adding a finishing gloss when you are done to prevent the stain from scratching.
Since I did not use a tutorial for the table, I have searched Pinterest to give you gals some ideas:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/356699232967778930/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/572238696379089739/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/509610514065368066/
Below is the process I went with when tackling this table:
1.
Sand the table, making sure to follow the grain to prevent scratch marks. It is not important to completely sand all of the colour off, just the gloss finish.
2. Wipe any excess sawdust, dust, or dirt off of the surface with a fairly damp to dry cloth( or just vacuum the table.)
3. Stain the surface; to do this apply a very small amount on the brush the less the better. Pick a hidden spot or scrap piece of plywood to test the stain to make sure the colour is right for the project. Spread the stain until there is no more remaining on the brush.
4. Let dry for at least an hour before applying a second coat if you wish to do a set coat.
5. Let dry for at least 12 hours before using your new furniture piece!
The next up-cycle I will be doing is turning a dresser into a TV stand with chalk paint. I am super excited to start this project and share with you all! The day after I gathered all of the supplies for the TV stand, I went into labor so the project has been put on hold as I went under went a C-section to bring our little man into the world.
