Small Mid Century Modern Stenciled Side Table

This updated mid-century modern side table makeover is proof that a small scratch doesn’t have to mean “scrap it.” I took a vintage find that was looking tired and scratched and turned it into a charming stenciled piece that now feels timeless and fresh in any space. I’ll show you simple steps that you can use on your own projects to camouflage imperfections and enhance character.

I got a great deal on it at Vendors’ Village—only 99 cents! It needed a little TLC, for sure.

I loved how it turned out, so cute! You can get the original makeover details in my post: Small Vintage Side Table Makeover.

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How to Stencil on Wood

While stored in the garage, it got a huge scratch on the top. That’s no good!

Because I was so in love with how the base looked with the glazed paint, I only wanted to work on fixing the tabletop. I used painter’s tape to ensure I only painted the tabletop with black spray paint. Even after sanding the scratch, you can see it through the new spray paint.

How to Stencil on Wood

Stenciling the table top will make that scratch disappear. Looking in my stash, I found the perfect stencil that would allow me to make a four-square pattern on the small side table. I love using Martha Stewart foam pouncers for stenciling. I used regular latex paint for the stenciling.

Stenciling on wood furniture is fun and easy, and it’s a great way to jazz up plain furniture.

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After the paint dried, I did some distressing with a sanding sponge to make it a little more aged.

So much better! It’s such a cute little side table.

Stenciled Side Table

While showing the pictures to my friends, one friend fell in love with it. I told her she could have it, but she didn’t take me seriously. So, if she is reading this, I was serious, and if you want it, you can have it. It seems like I’ve been re-doing many former projects lately. I’m okay with that—it takes a little pressure off me to crank out something new every week. It also shows YOU there are ways to save a piece that others may cast away into the garbage pile.

Don’t let scratches or surface damage scare you away from an otherwise solid piece of furniture. A little paint and a simple stencil can completely change the look and give new life to something that might have been headed for the curb. If you love saving tired furniture and turning it into something useful again, this side table makeover is a great reminder that imperfections are often just opportunities in disguise.

What would you have done about the large scratch?

gail