A while back I shared a post about my struggle to update our master bedroom and the crazy drama that has come with finding the right nightstands. I included some of my favorite picks for different styles and really loved something about each one. The problem was I just wasn't totally sold on any of them. And so I did what any normal person would do. I bought a perfectly sturdy side table and destroyed it. Check out how I overhauled a side table to create our nightstand!
This is a fabulously sturdy side table that I found at my local antique/vintage mall. It is actually from Ethan Allen. I know so many think it is a crime to take a good piece of furniture and sand and paint it. I understand those feelings, why fix something that isn't broke? Problem was, I loved the shape of the table but not the color. So I broke out the sander. If that makes you cringe well, read no further. Instead you can check out some non-destructive posts here and here.
First I worked with the sander to remove the layer of polish that was on the top of the table. This allowed my paint to adhere to the wood.
After it was sanded I painted the table with milk paint in ironstone with some bonding agent mixed in. I ended up doing two coats of the ironstone, with some light sanding between coats.
Next up I painted the table in the color grain sack, with more bonding agent mixed in.
After the painting was done it was time for me to add the gold leaf to the edge of the table. I have never worked with gold leaf before. It was a new experience and the result wasn't perfect. Fortunately for me the table was supposed to have some character so I didn't need the gold leafing to be completely uniform! This video helped me learn how to apply the gold leaf. {I used these gilding sheets, adhesive, gilding brush set, and gilding gloves.}
After the gold leaf was dry and brushed I applied a clear coat of polyurethane to keep it secure. Then the final step was applying some white wax to the painted table and sanding down the legs a little.
The final result? A little glam, a little gray, a little vintage, a little rustic. All perfectly me, and nothing I could find in a store. So what are your thoughts on my gray and gold leafed nightstand? Is it something you would bring into your home?
ashandcrafts says
This is so beautiful! I really like the way it turned out. Love your decor too!
Becky says
Thanks so much! I appreciate you stopping by and taking a look. xo
Shelley says
You all amaze me, I could NEVER think to do that, I love the way it looks, just perfect for your style:)
Becky says
Thanks Shelley 🙂