How to Update Old End Tables

Last year we gave the office a much-needed facelift, but it was seriously lacking in the home office decor department. I love the deep navy color we chose from the Pottery Barn collection for Sherwin Williams. It’s a smaller office, and the navy color gives it a really cozy, yet nautical feel. We installed a cotton-colored chair rail around the room, and it contrasts beautifully with the dark wood floors, but the furniture was dated and I needed some updated end tables.

When I thought about the furniture and other accents in the room, I wanted to keep them minimal and lighter– to contrast with the navy walls. We chose a glass desk to give the illusion of more space. We currently have a file cabinet, bookcase, and desk. I wanted to bring in another occasional or end table. I wanted the piece to be small, but functional. I found that table in our living room. It was sort of a dark cherry color and a bit outdated. I knew it was a perfect size and look for the office; it just needed a little updating.

I have been dying to try my hand at stenciling lately, and I thought this would be the perfect first project! So, here are some step by step instructions to update old end tables! It’s not hard– I promise!

1. Make sure you clean the table of any dust and dirt to prep the surface for painting.
2. Sand any rough patches. Use a fine grit sandpaper (220) on the whole piece to help the paint adhere better to the surface of the table.
3. If the table has already been painted or has a finish, use a primer first. I used a Krylon spray paint (Krylon ColorMaster™ in Almond) that is a primer/paint combination. You can use regular paint or spray paint. I prefer spray paint for smaller projects since it doesn’t leave any brushstrokes and requires no cleanup!
4. Spray (or paint) the table. If you are using spray paint, use even strokes and do not spray too heavily or too close to the table or you will get drips!
5. Apply additional coats as needed.
6. If you choose to stencil, apply your stencil (I used a Martha Stewart stencil from a collection I found at Michael’s) with acrylic paint. Remember to rub your brush or roller along a paper towel to remove excess paint before applying your stencil.
7. After the paint dries, apply a clear coat finish. I used an acrylic clear coat.
8. I chose to clear coat the whole paint job to make it more durable.

Here are the before and after pics:

Here are some additional pictures of the finished product! I am in love with it!

Spray painting is also a great way to update benches and other pieces of furniture that might need a facelift. You can go a step further and replace dated fabrics with new, modern textiles like I did with this nautical bench for the boys’ playroom. The possibilities are endless, so instead of heading to the store, shop your home first!

If you love chalk painting, it’s also a great way to update old furniture pieces including wicker furniture!