In With the Old: Game Table Makeover

What a Steal!

Eddie couldn’t pass up this pedestal table for $40. He loved its curved legs and metal claw feet (reminiscent of Duncan Phyfe style), but the peeling wood veneer—often a sign of improper storage—was in need of an update. Reproduction pieces such as this are diamonds in the rough; don’t let an unsightly finish discourage you. That’s what primer and paint are for! Just make sure it’s sturdy before you commit.

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Refinishing Materials

• flat-head screwdriver
• handheld electric sander
• primer (shellac-based stain blocker)
• epoxy wood filler
• coarse-grit sanding cloth
• white paint
• Scotch-Blue Painter's Tape
• glossy pink paint
• scissors
• heavy scrapbook paper
• spray adhesive
• glue gun
• grosgrain ribbon

Step 1: Prep for Paint

Do your prep work before you paint to ensure a smooth and lasting finish. Begin by removing the claw feet with a flat-head screwdriver, and use a handheld electric sander to remove any rust from them. Apply one coat of primer to the feet, and allow them to dry.

 

Step 2: Smooth It Out

Then fill any holes using an epoxy wood filler. Allow the filler to dry before sanding the entire table smooth using a sanding cloth.

Tip: Work carefully and quickly – epoxy dries fast! I recommend Minwax brand, it’s the best.

 

Step 3: Prime Time

Beginning with the table open, apply the primer, starting at the top and moving downward. Allow to fully dry, fold the table over, and prime the underside of the top and the drawer. Let the table dry. Reattach the claw feet. Apply another layer of primer all over. 

Step 4: Apply Paint

Apply two coats of white paint, allowing it to dry between coats. Let the second coat of paint set and dry. Measure and tape off stripes. Be sure to tape off the sides so they will remain white. Apply two coats of glossy pink paint to the tabletop. Let dry. Remove tape.

Tip: Be sure to use 3m Scotch-Blue painters tape. It really seals the paint out.

Step 5: Paper It On

Measure the interior drawer. Cut scrapbook paper to size with scissors. Apply spray adhesive to the back of the paper, and smooth in place. Using a glue gun, outline the drawer with grosgrain ribbon.

 

 

Source Guide

Table paint: Chef White (7002-15) by Valspar through Lowe's
Entry chair seat fabric: China Seas’ Java Java
Game table chair paint: Laura Ashley Home Berry Red 6 (206) by Valspar through Lowe's
Game table chair fabric: Boscobel in Spring from Calico Corners
Game table pink paint: Laura Ashley Home Deep Pink 5 (LA105) by Valspar through Lowe's
Curtain fabric: Judy Linen (39) by Grayline Linen
Cocktail napkin fabric: Handkerchief Linen in Pink by Grayline Linen 
Playing cards: Pastel Bicycle Playing Cards by Kardwell; Tiffany playing cards by Tiffany & Co.
Drawer liner: Sassy Cat (751049) by Pebbles Inc.