Am repurposing a table into a desk & need help with decorating the top
by
Columbia1
+17
The table is a 1960’s drop leaf that is in great conditionexcept the top was painted green. I useda little brighter green and am leaving the legs unpainted. I need ideas/advice/explanations on what Icould use to decorate the top. I likethe different diagonal strip designs but don’t know if I could/should use one ofthe new wavy Frog Tapes on permanently or would it be better to tape it andpaint it on. Another idea I’ve had is touse stencils and randomly paint on the table top Facebook and computer short “hand”like:
@, &, lol,smileys and other emoticons, etc. I havea paint color called “chianti” that I feel would be a good one to use since itis darker than .
I plan to use the main leaf and one of the other leaves for the table size with the option to open the other and use it when needed. Thanks for any and all suggestions.
@, &, lol,smileys and other emoticons, etc. I havea paint color called “chianti” that I feel would be a good one to use since itis darker than .
I plan to use the main leaf and one of the other leaves for the table size with the option to open the other and use it when needed. Thanks for any and all suggestions.
16 answers
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What a beautiful MCM gate leg table you have there, though it's a shame someone painted the top because my guess is it's either walnut or teak underneath that paint. Personally I'd remove the paint and refinish it.
Z
on Aug 28, 2013
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@Columbia1 something simple, yet makes a statement is always nice. Just remember to apply a coat or two of varnish to protect your work! You can get wonderful idea from the internet, or buy the rub on transfers at Michaels and Hobby Lobby. The possibilities are endless!
Therese C
on Aug 28, 2013
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I use a hollow core door as a large workspace, but it is special. I made copies of different notes our sons had written to me, keepsake notes from others, even a little school work, old postage stamps for color and ModPodged them to the top. Also added acrylic, it is a work table for cutting, etc. This way your table could be a family keepsake.
Joy
on Aug 28, 2013
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Since you wish to use this as a desk with the finish you've applied, you literally can put anything on the top by way of 'decorations' that you want. The options are limitless, the techniques are super easy. So really all you need to do is cruise the net, pick out what suits you and apply! Then seal. ;)
Sia@South 47th
on Aug 28, 2013
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Since it is a 60's table and you don't want to strip the paint why not do 60's style flower power motifs, flowers. peace signs and so forth. Good luck, it is a beautiful table.
Leona G
on Aug 29, 2013
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I totally agree!!! They make great paint removers today that won't harm the top - it's probably beautiful under neath and I definitely would refinish the top :-)
Jan
on Aug 29, 2013
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I agree, I'd refinish the top back to it's natural state. It would be beautiful that way, but if you must keep it painted you can do anything you want with the top. How about a green(black)board finish, then you can write notes etc on it as needed.
Trudie Griffin
on Aug 29, 2013
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Refinish the top, have a piece of plexiglass cut to fit and put notes, pictures, etc. underneath.
Debi McCoy
on Aug 30, 2013
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Thanks for all the ideas! I appreciate your ideas and time. Along with the limited ideas I had and all of yours I actually have some great considerations. Anyone that hasn't responded, please feel free to keep ideas coming.
Columbia1
on Sep 01, 2013
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yes I would remove the paint and refinish it. These table came with such an easy to care for finish. You can always stencil a floral design in the center panel.
Irish53
on Jul 13, 2014
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@Columbia1 -please post a picture, whatever you decide to do!
Polly Zieper
on Jul 13, 2014
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Decoupage
Debb Lewis
on Oct 09, 2014
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Since you asked, paint or tape, I'd paint. I have the feeling you want the green top and that's fine, it's very pretty. Maybe look at some stencils, pretty words, or something humorous, make it interesting and fun to sit at. Go wild girl. :)
Lori
on Oct 16, 2014
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How about old maps laid out. Then you could go over with some clear coat to seal it.just a thought?
Barbara Valenti
on Oct 16, 2014
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If it were me I would strip it down and refinish it, it is a beautiful table, I love the older stuff but I don't believe everything needs paint on it. good luck and GOD bless.
Penny
on Jan 06, 2015
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I am going to try to send you a picture of one that was similar that I refinished.
Dale
on Apr 19, 2015
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