Updating End Tables

by Artimus_Maximus

630122

Intro: Updating End Tables

I found these old looking End Tables at a garage sale and decided to give them some love by updating them to match our other furniture. Here's how I did it.


Total Item/Tool List:

  • 60-80 Grit Sandpaper
  • 120-220 Grit Sandpaper
  • Powered Sheet Sander
  • Palm Sander
  • Allen Wrench
  • Pliers
  • Wood Filler
  • Putty Knife
  • Polyurethane Stain
  • Paint Brush
  • Clean Rags
  • Interior Polyurethane Clear Semi-Gloss
  • Hammer

STEP 1: (Sanding)


Tools used for Sanding:

  • 60-80 Grit Sandpaper
  • Powered Sheet Sander
  • Palm Sander
  • Allen Wrench
  • Pliers
  • 120-220 Grit Sandpaper

Process:

  1. Remove Glass
  2. In a well ventilated area, begin Sanding with 60-80 Grit Sandpaper
  3. If needed, use a smaller Palm Sander for tighter to reach areas
  4. Using a Allen Wrench, disassemble the table
  5. Once disassembled, remove hardware and wooden dowels using Pliers if needed.
  6. Repeat the Sanding process with 120-220 Grit Sandpaper for a smooth finish.

Side Notes: Be careful around glass supports and corners. I personally skipped over the glass supports to avoid a uneven finish and lightly sanded/ hand sanded the corners.

STEP 2: (Repair and Staining)


Tools used for Repairing and Staining:

  • Wood Filler
  • Putty Knife
  • Palm Sander
  • 120-220 Grit Sand Paper
  • Polyurethane Stain
  • Paint Brush
  • Clean Rags

Process:

  1. Fill any gaps, crack or gouges with Wood Filler and using a Putty Knife.
  2. Once dried, use a Palm Sander (or by hand) to sand down excess Wood Filler to match the surrounding area with 120-22- Grit Sandpaper.
  3. Using a Clean Rag, Wipe away any saw dust or dirt left behind.
  4. In a well ventilated area and using a Paint Brush, Apply Polyurethane Stain to wood.
  5. Let it sit for the desired length and then wipe off stain with a Clean Rag.
  6. Apply additional coats until the desired color is reached.
  7. Let the wood sit overnight.

Side Notes: For easy clean up, use disposable gloves and work on a area that can can be easily cleaned.

For staining, the longer the stain sits with the wood the more it will be absorbed.

STEP 3: (Clear Coat and Finishing)


Tools used to Clear Coat and Finish:

  • Interior Polyurethane Clear Coat Semi-Gloss
  • Paint Brush
  • Clean Rags
  • Hammer
  • Allen Wrench

Process:

  1. In a well ventilated area and using a Paint Brush, apply the Polyurethane Clear Coat.
  2. With a Clean Rag, wipe away excess paint to avoid runs.
  3. Let the paint dry enough to not run before applying the Polyurethane Clear Coat onto the next area.
  4. It is recommended to apply 2-3 coats for a smoother finish and stronger bonding.
  5. Let the paint dry overnight before reassembling.
  6. Reinsert the wooden dowels using Pliers and a Hammer if needed.
  7. Insert/ tighten the washer and screws with a Allen Wrench.
  8. Clean the glass and place it back on top of the supports.
  9. Marvel at a job well done!

Side Notes: When applying the clear coat, use the best available brush and don't over apply the paint.

When reassembling, be sure glass supports are faced in the correct direction to avoid having to disassemble.


Now it's time to find more wood and match it all! : )

Hopefully this gives you enough confidence to go ahead with your project, it's not too hard, you can do it!


Keep updated with this and future projects here on my Instructables account: https://www.instructables.com/member/Artimus_Maximu...as well as on...

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ArtimusMaximusOfficial

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Instagram: https://instagram.com/ketchup_bandito/

STEP 4: Project Pictures

2 Comments

tomatoskins 8 years ago

Those turned out looking really great! Thanks for sharing and welcome to the community!

Artimus Maximus 8 years ago

@tomatskins thank you very much, I really appreciate that. I've been a lurker for many years, I am excited to finally contribute. Thank you again.