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Library Table Makeover

ByGail Wilson Published onFebruary 6, 2026February 6, 2026

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Sometimes the best furniture makeovers start with solid bones and a simple vision. This old library table had great lines and sturdy construction, but the finish was tired and uneven. A little paint, a little stain, and a willingness to experiment turned it into a versatile piece that works just as well as a desk as it does a console or accent table.

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, but the weather has to be just right!

Antique Library Table

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.

The sweet table definitely needed some TLC.

Library Table Makeover From Tired to Trendy

Library tables are perfect makeover candidates because they are usually well built, generously sized, and neutral in design. That makes them incredibly flexible. With the right finish, they can easily become a desk, entry table, sofa table, or craft station. One solid piece. Endless possibilities.

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 a 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, That is the Question

vintiques by heirloom traditions engine #9

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 on a Furniture Makeover

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 with Polyshades

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.