6 ways to transform your old wooden table at home
A wooden table can be restored in many ways, and with just a bit of effort, it can look almost new. Explore six ideas to update a table in a style that suits you.
1. Distress the surface
Even a brand-new table can achieve a charmingly vintage look. First, remove the paint layer and any decorative details. If you like a distressed effect, leave some paint partially visible. Then finish with clear antique wax, which brings out the wood grain beautifully and adds a silky sheen. Follow these instructions to give your table a gorgeously worn finish!
2. Remove yellowing
A yellowed pine table won't turn heads, but sanding and waxing can make it look almost new again. Start with a light wood wax, then finish with an oil wax. This treatment helps the surface stand up to everyday wear and repel water. Check out the instructions for restoring a yellowed pine table!
3. Add a checkered pattern
A timeless checkered pattern adds a playful update. Paint it in the colors of your choice, or leave every other square unpainted to let the table’s natural surface create a striking contrast. Check out how to paint a checkered surface on your table!
4. Lighten by sanding
A darkened oak table can be brightened with sanding. A lye treatment preserves the wood’s natural tone, and wood soap provides a dirt-repelling finish. White-tinted wood soap lightens it even further. Check out the instructions for lightening an oak table!
5. Refresh with paint
Old side tables get a new lease on life with paint. In this example, the nightstands were painted with a blend of black and vivid green. For a fun twist, paint the interior a different color for a surprise behind the doors. Check out the instructions for painting tables!
6. Scrub it silky
Soap-scrubbing and a milk treatment are traditional ways to restore the wood’s original tone. If you’d like a lighter finish, apply a white soap solution several times. Furniture paint on the legs pairs beautifully with the natural tabletop. Check out the instructions for soap-scrubbing a pine table!
