Antique Side Table Makeover

I can usually spot a good little table from across the room, even when it has a few problems. This antique side table came to me free from a reader, and while it was in decent shape, it still needed some attention. It had a few veneer issues, a missing brace, loose screws, and a broken joint on one of the leg braces. Nothing too terrible, but definitely enough to slow me down before I could get to the fun part. Paint.

Antique Side Table

The table was in decent shape, with a few veneer issues and a missing brace at the top.

Inspect Your Project and Make Repairs

The first step to a good makeover is to check for loose screws etc. The antique side table was a little wobbly, so I tightened the screws. I also tapped in all those tiny nails on the side braces.

There was a broken joint on the leg brace that someone had tried to repair.

After removing the decorative finial, I separated the pieces to get the glue in place.

Gorilla Wood Glue was applied with a silicone brush.

The wood glue easily wipes away with a baby wipe.

Always Clean Your Furniture Project

An orbital sander with medium-grit sandpaper was used to smooth out the broken veneer pieces on the antique side table. Then, it was time for cleaning and deglossing with some HTP Deglosser.

Apply the deglosser with a chip brush, then scrub it well with a scrubber pad.

The deglosser will remove dirt, grease, and grime and dull a shiny finish, allowing the paint to adhere.

It’s Time for Paint

Now, the antique table is ready for its makeover!

Wow! The base of the table was so easy to paint. I forgot to take any pictures. It was a cool morning, and the paint went on like a dream! I used a brush and paint from Heirloom Traditions Paint. The color is Cobblestone. Isn’t it beautiful?

Related Content: ReStore Two-toned Side table

I DID SOMETHING VERY RARE because I wanted to do this antique table makeover in a two-toned color scheme! I used painter’s tape on the underside of the table.

How to Paint a TableTop

I prefer to use a small sponge roller and a sponge applicator to get a smooth finish. The HTP store sells everything on Amazon. Seriously, that sponge applicator is a game-changer!

I applied the second coat with the roller. Here’s where I’ll be frank with you: Although I LOVE this paint, the weather messed with me in the afternoon. The paint did not go on smoothly. Operator error? Perhaps.

I worked on the antique side table top the next day before it got so hot. Can you see a color difference? I ran out of the white-ish paint and switched to my favorite Colosseum color—yes, the same color I used when I painted my kitchen countertops. It never really looks gray until you put it up against white!

While painting the tabletop on the patio, I added some Plastic Wood to help cover up the broken leg. That stuff is so awesome!

Do I Need to Wax the Paint?

No, you do not need to wax this paint. It’s “all in one.” The paint dries and cures well.

Gray Antique Side Table

What about the missing brace? I didn’t do anything about it; I figured the new owner could place it against the wall so it’s not noticeable.

Yep, the gray is so light it DOES look white, but now you know it isn’t. I wonder if Sharon wants her antique side table back? Do you love the two-toned color as much as I do?

The next time you see a small side table at a thrift store, yard sale, or on the curb, take a second look. Check for loose screws, wobbly legs, chipped veneer, and broken braces. A few simple repairs may be all it needs before paint can do the rest.

Would you have painted this antique side table, or would you have tried to restore the wood?