Library table makeover
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Here’s a great library table makeover I think you’re going to LOVE. Well, if you don’t like painted furniture you may not love it. I don’t really have anything against refinishing furniture, except it has been too hot to do all that work!
I got this sweet desk or library table from my hairdresser Marlene. She was cleaning out some items and I just happened to have an appt, so I stopped by to pick up several items.
A good furniture makeover begins with repairs
The library table was a little wobbly, so I tipped it upside down to make any necessary adjustments to make it more steady. These wing nuts had become quite loose.
There were two pocket hole screws that needed tightening, and while I had it upside down I took the time to clean it up with a small dust brush. I use this brush in the shop for everything.
The top was in pretty rough shape, and was sanded with an 80 grit, then a 200 grit until it was really smooth. At this point I wasn’t really sure what I was going to do with it. I was trying to decide if I would paint it all, paint some of it or refinish it totally.
The top sanded up really nice, and I had to sand that bad spot on the lower shelf, but it just wouldn’t go away. It was a little goopy, so I had to go to plan b.
How to remove stubborn stain when refinishing furniture
I used some Citristrip and a cheap chip brush to strip whatever was on the wooden shelf. This table was used in a garage, so it could have been some solvent or stain or something like that. The Citristrip worked like a charm to remove the gook, but it didn’t take away black stain.
To paint or not to paint
I recently picked up some Engine No. 9 from Heirloom Traditions. I applied it with a chip brush. I always start painting the underneath side of a piece of furniture.
The hardware was removed from the drawer, as I decided that the interior of the drawer was so rough, that it should be painted as well.
How to tone down red paint
This is after one very light coat of Engine No. 9 on everything but the top of the library table.
Furniture Waxing Tips
While I was at the store getting the Engine No. 9, I also picked up some Jet Black Soft Wax and a couple of applicator sponges from Heirloom Traditions. Dampening the sponge slightly aids in the application of the soft wax. I am loving the look of the black wax over the red, you?
I like to apply wax to corners, nooks and crannies with a chip brush.
Stain and seal in one easy step
It doesn’t get any easier than Minwax Polyshades in Antique Walnut applied with a cheap chip brush. Isn’t it gorgeous? I’m so happy I didn’t pain the top.
Library Table Makeover
The original knobs were replaced, and I love the new look of this old table. I suppose I’ll be taking it to Glendale (KY) in October for Crossing Days.
Do you love it as much as I do?
I’d love for you to Pin it!
Later this month I’ll show you how I modified the chest of drawers I got at the same time. I love how it turned out as well—after plan “b”. Initially I wasn’t loving it. 
gail
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I have that exact same desk! It belonged to my oldest brother. 🙂
That’s so cool Elaine! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave a comment!
gail
I am a sucker for oak anything and would do my best to restain and finish this table. But you did a fabulous job refinishing it. The muted red color goes perfectly with the stained top. I can see that in my Americana style living room!
Thank you so much Sherry for taking the time to leave a comment about my library table makeover. I appreciate that.
gail
Well, at least you didn’t paint it white! too many old wood pieces are to precious to add paint.
Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave a comment. My site is all about giving people ideas to update their old furniture, or something new they pick up at a thrift store. I appreciate you adding your two cents to the conversation. 🙂
Happy DIY’ing
gail
I inherited an exact table that was always known as the library table. It has traveled from Indiana to Florida and back and has served my family well! Love the post!
So awesome, thanks for stopping by!
Gail
Did you use more than one coat of red? Do you buff off the black wax? What about the wax in the corners? Thanks.
Terri
I only did one coat of the red paint. I applied the wax in the corners with a chip brush. You can apply less if you want to. I don’t really buff off the wax, just wipe it back with the sponge or a clean brush.
gail
after you do a do over what do you with the items?
Albert,
I sell my items at a local antique mall type store, and at a once a year craft show in October.
gail
I love the red and wood tone color combo! Gorgeous!
I love combining wood tones and colors Mary. Thanks so much for your visit and your comment.
gail
One good-looking table!
Beautiful! By the way, what is the difference between a library table and a regular old end table or nightstand?
Kate,
According to Wikipedia, “The term library table is sometimes applied indiscriminately to a wide variety of desk forms, in addition to being used for writing tables. Let the scholar or the buyer be wary.”
I called it a library table because it has a drawer and it’s smaller than a desk. 🙂
gail
The table looks great! I love the red.
Thank you for stopping by Lisa, and taking the time to leave a comment. I’ve never been a fan of “red”, but for some reason lately, I just can’t get enough of it. 🙂
gail
The red isn’t my favorite color but the black wax(never knew it came in black) made the perfect finish. Wow it really came to life.
Gail
I just picked up that black wax a couple of weeks ago, and I know I’ll be using it on a lot of projects going forward. 🙂
I wonder if my hairdresser wants it back…..
gail
Gail thank you so much for sharing all of your projects,they are awesome and you are so creative !!!!
Donna,
I appreciate you checking out My Repurposed Life. I sure do love doing what I do. I’m about to head to the shop to work on some more projects, one of them is proving to be quite challenging, but hopefully my perseverance will win out.
gail
Love it Gail, the color is perfect! Definitely a trash to treasure makeover!
Debbie
Thank you so much Debbie, and I appreciate you pinning it! 🙂
I will be sorry to see it go at Glendale . . .
gail