Thursday, March 8, 2018

Craigslist Side Table Makeover Video Tutorial for Beginners

So, my new obsession is watching makeup tutorials on YouTube. I know, it sounds weird for a late 30's stay-at-home mom of three, but they have opened me up to a whole new world of makeup tricks, tips and products. And for me, they are so much more entertaining than watching Netflix or shows. Lately, they have inspired me to start filming more and ramping up my YouTube Channel.

My latest video is all about using beginner's techniques to update a Craigslist piece of furniture. This is a smooth finish with no distressing or wax. Play the video by clicking the picture below.

It's always best to start small when trying out refinishing for the first time. You don't want to ruin grandma's dining table or your bedroom set. Finding inexpensive items from Goodwill or Craigslist is always a great idea. I got this table for free from a neighbor who had bought a set off of Craigslist and only needed one table. My friends and family know they can always offer me free furniture!


For this project, I used General Finishes Gel Stain in Java for the table top and Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in Old White for the body. I sealed the entire piece with General Finishes High Performance Top Coat in Flat. Don't let the staining portion scare you. It's a lot like painting. There is no need to completely strip the existing finish. There is a little cleaning and sanding involved, but it's a lot less messy and time consuming than stripping the entire top. I really love General Finishes products. They have become some of my favs lately.

There is no distressing in this project. It's a really smooth finish for a more clean, modern look. And since I used the General Finishes top coat to finish the entire piece you don't need to wax. I know that scares some of you.


All the details and product links can be found in my video tutorial. Go check it out and subscribe to my channel before you leave! I've got lots of fun plans for upcoming videos. And you can always leave me a comment if there is something you want to see! 

Disclaimer: These links contain affiliate links. I will receive a commission for items purchased from these links. I appreciate your support. Please read all labels and follow all manufacturer safety recommendations when working with paints, stains, etc.

3 comments:

  1. I have two oval end tables, I am sure are of the same manufacturer and vintage. I used ASCP Old Ochre, but left the tops oak, due to some other oak furniture. Love the dark stained top, Christina! I also did an oval coffee table, same line, but did the top in a mix of Versailles and a little Country Grey and added a French stencil. These tables are great for chalk painting for beginners.

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  2. Hi, Christina - I have been enjoying your posts and videos while soaking up as much of other people's experience with the Annie Sloan chalk paints as I can. I am trying to find out what more experienced people would use for a topcoat on an exterior door that does not have protection from the elements. I know I could let the chalk paint cure and be its own thing out there, but the look I want is the look I would get with a texturing painting-on of the color, and the dark wax applied. Since the waxes cannot be used outside, what would you try doing to approximate that look?

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  3. By the way, this table is just beautiful in your remake! Thank you for sharing how to get the smooth finish - a very nice option in addition to the fun distressed finished the paint is so good for.

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