Need help with night stand makeover

Question

Both night stands have peeling laminate and raised, water damaged areas on top. Can they be saved?

My son's girlfriend wanted one of these two night stands painted in white and turquoise. Is it possible to fix the water damaged, raised areas on top?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

Mandy Brown · Answer

The first picture looks like a particle board piece with a paper laminate adhered to it. If the damage is only scuffs and dents then you could possibly use a filler of some sort and go over it with a very fine sand paper or steel wool. I wouldn't sand it too hard or you'll make it even worse. The only thing left is to use a good primer and paint or chalk paint. If it has water damage (bubbled up), there's really nothing you can do. Painting it will only make it more noticeable. That's the biggest downfall with particle board furniture, it doesn't do well in damp places or if water is spilled on it and left (glass with condensate, etc.)

The bottom piece looks a little sturdier. I can't really tell from the picture if the black is laminate or just a chunk that's been knocked off the edge. You could always find a nice corner molding to add to each edge to give it some interest and detail and cover that section. Fill in with wood putty as much as possible first, then sand it smooth to blend in with the front of the nightstand. I'd check Lowe's or Home Depot for decorative legs to lift if off the floor a bit. I did that with mine (I have a really tall bed tho). Just get four leg 'plates' and screw them onto the bottom at the corners (they come in straight or angled) and the legs will just screw right into the holes.

Julia Garrison Duvall · Answer

The top picture will need a completely new board, you cannot fix the particle board once it bubbles. The bottom you can take all of the black off and sand and paint or fill it in, then sand and paint.

Janet Pizaro · Answer

I think there is a possibility for saving the tables.See if this will help you decide on repairing them. www.how.com/how_5838386_repair-Laminated-furniture.html/

Connie Johnson · Answer

Paint in color of choice, all of it, top and inside included. ....Then use small mosaic tiles on top, grout matching paint... have a glass top cut to finish the project! Voila! I finished one like this and I love it! And use the paint that is sold for plastic garden pots..... no sanding...and it will adhere to the current varnished/stained surface. Add hardware, and you have it...very pretty....

Dawn Hudson-Scott · Answer

Wood filler and paint primer will do the trick. I have done some just like this and that is all it took, once primered them paint coordinating colors and you will have an awesome piece.

Renae · Answer

You could sand or plane the top smooth and decoupage either pictures or paper napkins that appeal to your decor sense. I have the same problem with my end tables in the living room, I'm going to cover them with family pix and decoupage them. Good luck! I'd love to see what you did once they are done!

Somewhat Quirky · Answer

I haven't had a lot of success making the bubbled laminate over particle board look good. I would take off the top and replace it. The drawers look like they could be painted with no problem.

Martina G. · Answer

Thank you everyone. I will try your suggestions.

Snapoutofit · Answer

http://www.hometalk.com/diy/paint/furniture/s-7-dresser-hacks-so-gorgeous-it-s-impossible-to-pick-a-favorite-11118681

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