Shabby To Chic DIY Garage Sale Coffee Table Makeover Article

   I have always had a passion for vintage furnishings. I think it is because, unlike a lot of the massed produced pieces of today, they were made with care from the design all the way through to the manufacturing. These pieces were made to last through generations, they survived many moves, children and being stored in garages and attics for years.
   My favorite haunts are yard sales, little out of the way thrift shops and flea markets. I have been known to beat the disposal truck, sometimes by only a few minutes, to a few wonderful treasures! It is in my nature to look for neglected, abused and unloved pieces that can be fixed up with a little paint, a couple of appliques and a little elbow grease.
   This project began with a vintage coffee table with great "bones". It was sturdy, had wonderful curvy lines and two working drop leaves on either end. Don't let scratches, worn finishes or paint scare you away from a piece you love. These are all the things that add to its personality and furniture manufacturers are trying to duplicate on new pieces.

Supplies

Electric Sander
Sanding Blocks - Med. grit
2 roses swag appliques
Bin white primer
6" paint roller
Paint roller tray
Paintbrush - 2' flat
1 qt. flat interior/exterior latex paint
Minwax Finishing Paste
Soft Rags
Biodegradeable dropcloth

Step 1 - Preparation
Wear a mask, sand lightly with electric sander or sanding blocks removing marks, spots and smoothing any rough areas. Use a sponge or rag to wash piece thoroughly removing dust and any remaining dirt. Let dry completely.

Step 2 - Adding Appliques
Follow the directions from the manufacturer to apply your appliques. The ones I use are very easy to apply. I steam the undersides and put in place and they are ready to paint in a few minutes.

Step 3 - Priming
I use a small roller to apply my primer and I always use a quick dry primer. Make sure to coat entire piece paying special attention to any stains or discloration. This is the most important step because you want your paint to stick to your table and on vintage pieces you don't know what kind of paint, stain or finish was used. Whatever has been spilled or rubbed into a surface comes back up through the paint if you don't prime.

Step 4 - Painting
I use a brush for my paint application. I started on underside, applying two coats. Brushing in the direction of the wood grain. Finish underside and legs letting dry completely between coats. Flip over and finish tops and sides with two coats of paint. TIP: your painting doesn't have to be perfect, you can miss spots and drip and it all adds to the look once you distress it.

Step 5 - Distressing
Using a sanding block, sand off some the paint on the edges, outward curves and to highlight your appliques. You can do as little or as much as you like. You can sand off some of the paint in spots on the top, but I prefer not to because the top will get distressed with use.

Step 6 - Finishing
I like the sheen from a finishing wax, it is much more natural looking and easier to apply than a varnish or polyurethane. Follow the directions on container of whatever you use. This one is an easy rub on. Rub on an even layer, let dry 10 minutes and buff it off with a soft, clean rag. You can also use this wax to bring back the luster of wood furniture you already have. Work in a well ventilated area.

The table to everyone else that day was just an old beat up table. I saw the beauty in it and brought it home. It is now a gorgeous addition to my living room and a one of a kind piece.

Sandra Shepard is the owner and designer at Shabby Rose Cottage. For more decorating tips and DIY projects visit her at www.shabbyrosechic.com and at www.shabbychicblog.com