I got this old table at a yard sale for $10. Since it was taken apart, I really didn’t know how bad the pedestals were. You can see the legs are a little wonky…. attached but off kilter.
When I got it out to paint it, I realized why it was so cheap. I didn’t have a clue what the problem was until I turned them upside down and investigated.
Not shown in the picture is a big metal plate that connects from the pedestal to all three legs. A couple of the metal brackets just needed the screws tightened. The legs slide up and out.
This little guy needed some tlc. These screw holes were stripped. I removed the screws….
…I filled the holes with wood glue….
…then stuck in a toothpick.
Now, both pedestals are all fixed up.
This is how she looks all painted, waxed and buffed.
I lightly distressed this table. I’ve been looking for some chairs to go with it, but haven’t found any yet. If I can’t sell it as is, I may take it apart and use the pedestals to make two separate tables.
I painted this sweet table using Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in my HomeRight sprayer. So easy! You can read the details in my post—ASCP in a HomeRight Finish Max.
Have you used the “toothpick trick” before? It sure does work great!
gail
related content: repair a vintage headboard
Charlene says
September 16, 2013 at 10:30 amWooden BBQ skewers also work great!
Sheri says
September 15, 2013 at 3:08 pmThat is a beautiful table. I hope you don’t have to turn it into two tables.
jeanetteann says
September 12, 2013 at 4:19 amOh my goodness it’s lovely. Well done. Looks so easy to do.
Sylvia says
September 12, 2013 at 1:07 amYes, I have also used the toothpick/golf tee/ skewer trick. Table looks great.
Pat says
September 11, 2013 at 9:43 pmGail, that table turned out fabulously!
I HAVE used the toothpick trick…and the match stick trick, (break off the match end)…bamboo skewer, wooden dowel (MOST RECENT)… I hope this table sells.
But if it doesn’t then we’ll get to see you pull another trick out of your hat…and make two tables!
catching up on reading this evening. I’m sure you’ll see more comments from me!
Pat
Mindi says
September 11, 2013 at 2:31 pmWhat a fun table! I have heard of the toothpick trick, but haven’t used it yet! You just gave me the idea to use it on one of my kitchen cabinets though, I keep having to tighten the screw, I supposed six kids pulling it down as they open it several times a day might have something to do with it!
sophy says
September 11, 2013 at 12:52 pmWow, what a find… plus a fabulous fix!! looking good!
Margaret says
September 11, 2013 at 12:18 pmMy favorite project of yours is the desk repurposed into a tall dresser – love, love, love it! What a creative idea!
Becky says
September 11, 2013 at 10:50 amGreat how to–so often a necessary fix on these tables!
Korrie@RedHenHome says
September 11, 2013 at 9:39 amThe table looks amazing! No, I haven’t tried the toothpick trick, but I will add it to my arsenal 😉
Julie @ follow your heart woodworking says
September 11, 2013 at 9:14 amThat’s a steal for $10. Interested what you find when you take things apart, isn’t it? Not really a difficult fix, but the owner probably never even looked to see why it was wobbly!
Cher @ Designs by Studio C says
September 11, 2013 at 8:35 amGorgeous table! I never thought to use toothpicks to fill holes – I’ll have to keep that in mind!
Holly says
September 11, 2013 at 8:16 amYes I have, but I’ve used wooden golf tees too depending on the size you need to fill. I’ve also used them to fill holes that I don’t want to use anymore instead of wood filler.