Old Foldable Table Repainted

I used 150 sandpaper on a palm sander. It it could be done by hand with some elbow grease. Lightly sand the entire table and legs. You do not need to remove all the finish; in fact, it's better just to smooth out the surface layer. Do not try to get to bare wood; you will use less base coat if you don't. The aim here is to get a smooth surface so that the paint will adhere nicely.

White base, grey finishing plus grey bird stencils.

I uses a white paint and a brush, but sometimes spray paints are much more efficient.

Make sure that the paint base color is completely dry before you start on the next step.

Sand paper it with the small grit paper to make it loook older and create a smooth surface for the second layer.

Apply the second color - grey in this case, and as previously, make sure that the paint base color is completely dry before you start on the next step.

Again - Sand paper the edges with the small grit paper to make it look older and create a smooth surface for the second layer.

For the stencils, you can use the same color in spray, or simply the same paint and the sponge. Select a stencil (you can find out more how to creat and paint from stencils here: http://artcave.eu/blog/painting-from-stencils) . I usually use plastic stencils, spray them with a tiny amount of spray adhesive so they stick in nicely to the surface, but are easy to be removed when the job is completed. You can also tape the stencil on with painter's tape, making sure it's flat and that all areas that should not be sprayed are thoroughly covered. If the stencil comes on a roll, it's best to press it flat for 24 hours prior to using it (place it under heavy, flat objects such as boards or books).

Spray / paint through the stencil with light, even coats and try to spray straight down at the stencil to avoid the mist getting under the stencil. (this is not a problem if u use an adhesive for plastic stencils). Inevitably some mist will create a slight haze around the shapes; this is okay, because it will be lightly sanded away. Wait about 15 minutes and remove the stencil.

Leave it to drey completely and after about 8 to12 hours, the stenciled areas should be dry. Lightly sand over the stenciled areas to give them a worn, shabby-chic look.

Add a clear protective top layer to prevent the new paint from getting damaged. There are a variety of products on the market that can both be sprayed and brushed. I use transparent matte brushable varnish or a sprayable lacquer. You could also use a brushable polyurethane if the tabletop will come in contact with water or liquids. Two coats should be enough.