Small Brass Table Makeover

Today’s makeover of a small brass table is quick and easy to do. Maybe it will inspire you to find something to upcycle this weekend. What else do you have to do?

Inspect & Repair Project

This is the small brass table I got free from a friend a few years ago. Whether you’re doing a project you already have or a thrift store project, the first order of business is inspect and repair.

One of the legs was very loose. I was unable to tighten the screw while it was in the base, so I removed a second screw holding the leg on and pulled the leg from the base.

Tightening the screw was not working, so I found a washer and added it. Then the leg was very sturdy and not wobbly any longer. You can see the other two legs already had washers installed. I suppose that is why the lady gave this to my friend to give to me.

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Thoroughly Clean Brass Table

I always clean my projects before painting them. For wooden thrift store items, I use TSP. For this small brass table, I decided to use Krud Kutter.

Rinse After Washing

Rinsing with the hose is the easiest fix for a project this size. Do not skip this step after using TSP or Krud Kutter! Don’t forget to turn it upside down.

Spray Paint Small Brass Table

As per my usual, I reached for some spray paint and turned the small brass table upside down to begin painting it.

Follow Spray Paint Directions

Follow the directions on your spray paint can for recoating. Many times it needs to be within 30 minutes, or after 24 hours. It’s really important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s not always convenient, but if you can do it in the small window, really pay attention and do it after that window closes.

Turn the small brass table upright and continue to spray paint with two light coats.

Spray Paint Gone Wrong

After the paint dried on the brass table, this is what I saw. I washed and rinsed the project really well. I don’t know why it did this. It could be wax leftover from a candle, or maybe some perfume from years ago? There’s no way of knowing. I didn’t see any evidence of this spray paint gone wrong as I was painting.

The only thing I could think to do was to sand the paint smooth and recoat it. Be sure to DUST when you sand. Dirt, dust and debris are the worst enemy of spray paint. It’s not nearly as forgiving as chalk paint.

Because it had been several days, I knew I could safely re-coat the brass table with more spray paint.

Distress Brass Table with Emery Board

In order to bring out the details I used an emery board, I buy them by the box on Amazon. I would love to have used some rub-n-buff but I don’t have any on hand.