Get a Parisian bistro vibe: Blogger Katja Rinkinen transforms an Ikea table with a marble top
A marble top transforms a small balcony table into a timeless beauty. Although it appears delicate, this table is surprisingly sturdy and durable. Check out the instructions from blogger Katja Rinkinen!
Slender marble table—supplies
Ikea’s Tärnö table or a sturdy table with a cast-iron base
A marble slab (or a marble tile and a piece of plywood)
Construction adhesive
Tape measure and painter’s tape
A cleaning stone
A cardboard box or protective plastic
Textured spray paint in rust and concrete shades
If you’re making the top from a large marble tile, glue a piece of plywood underneath for extra support, and keep the table indoors.
Slender marble table—instructions
1. Measure the size and spacing of the metal brackets on the underside of the table’s top. Sketch these measurements on paper. Then remove the old top from the brackets.
2. Clean the table’s metal parts and give them a light coat of rust-effect spray paint. Spray from about 30 centimeters (12 inches) away or more to create a realistic rust look. For extra patina, use a spray paint that creates a concrete effect—apply it sparingly in layers. Paint outdoors in a cardboard box or on protective plastic.
3. Wash the marble top with a cleaning stone, rinse it with water, and let it dry. A cleaning stone can even remove rust stains from marble and also serves as a protective treatment.
4. Use painter’s tape to mark where the tabletop’s metal fittings will go on the marble. Glue them on with construction adhesive, one by one. Wipe away any excess with paper or a cloth. Let them dry for two to three days before assembling the table. You can place small weights on top of the fittings for about a day.
Where to find marble for the top?
Online flea markets often offer stone countertops, pieces of marble slabs, and stone tiles for sale. You can also find marble offcuts at shops that sell kitchen counters. Waterjet cutting services can shape marble to your specifications at a reasonable price, even with decorative edges like scallops.
