How can I make my melamine "cupboard" more of a coffee table?

Linda
by Linda
I want to make it look more in keeping with my living room....
  3 answers
  • Rhonda S Rhonda S on Mar 15, 2017

    I don't have a clear picture in my head of what you already have, but here are some possible suggestions: find a tray that would fit what you plan to use as a top side. Either set the tray on as the surface that can be lifted and carried to the kitchen or if you need more stability, attach it with appropriately sized screws. If the table is too short as it is, find legs that can be attached, or make your own out of wood stock. I saw someone who used empty plastic creamer jars as molds for concrete (the product that comes in the bucket) so she could have totally custom height on her finished forms. (After the concrete set, she carefully split the plastic form with a razor and pulled it off, leaving the legs. She must have put a anchor into the top surface so she would have something to hold the screws she put through her base. Sorry I don't have photos or a link) I can see using ready made bun feet or mid-century taper, depending on the decor you are trying to match. You can paint most surfaces. Just explain at the paint store what you are trying to do, and they will give you tips for preparation, priming, and paint choices. Without a photo of your "before," that is the best I can do to point you at an "after." Good luck.


    • See 1 previous
    • Rhonda S Rhonda S on Mar 16, 2017

      Third time might be the charm...I am answering on my phone and pressed next instead of reply once and delete instead of edit on the second attempt!

      When I think Victorian, I think lace, brocade, textured satin, and fringe or tassels. Shabby chic makes me think floral. So....smooth the unfinished surfaces with wood putty (apply and scrape to spread and smooth and sand lightly if required.) Prime and paint so you have a consistent base. Then the fun. Apply fabrics to dress it up. Lace outside and satin inside? Floral under lace? It will be really personalized! Mod podge or similar should work. Finish with a fringe or fabric skirt to hide the casters, and top with a tray for a durable surface. Have fun, and I will try to push the right reply button now : )

  • Cwh6899259 Cwh6899259 on Mar 20, 2017

    Paint the inside to match the outside. I would put it on casters. If you went to a counter top supplier/marble, granite supplier you may be able to get an off-cut that would fit on the top, I would have a bit of an overhang on all sides, for a small price. You can get some really pretty colours in natural stone.


    I don't associate painted finishes with Victorian, but as there is no picture it is hard to tell exactly what you mean by Victorian.

  • 16999903 16999903 on Mar 21, 2017

    photo?