When Kathy invited me to a garage sale a couple of weeks ago I found a pair of these charming end tables. As you can see the finish was in pretty bad shape but the tables were solid and sturdy, definitely worth saving. I have to admit, I'm not completely sold on the idea of the painted furniture craze that is going on. If a piece has a beautiful finish I'd leave it alone. I've stripped and refinished many a poorly painted piece of furniture over the years! However, if the furniture is in really bad shape or was inexpensive go ahead and have some fun. I only paid $17 for this.
My local Ace Hardware store was having it's annual free paint day. Did you know they do that? It's awesome! Print out a coupon and you get a free quart of interior paint in the color of your choice. I got up early on Saturday morning so I could be one of the first in line. I chose a soft turquoise called Coventry Gardens.
One coat of paint and little distressing and it's already looking better.
I also did a little antiquing with some Minwax stain and then added a French graphic from The Graphics Fairy. I never get tired of browsing her blog for ideas!
Lastly, I sealed it all with a clear matte spray finish.
Very sweet, don't you think?
Your little table is so sweet. I agree with you, if a piece of furniture is historically significant or has a lovely natural finish, leave it alone. After all, it took nature a long time to give us that beautiful natural wood grain, and once the patina of age is covered with paint, it's gone for good. I do also love painted furniture, though, and yours is perfect with it's distressed edges and French graphic!
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