If you’re someone who loves high-end furniture designs but cringes at the hefty price tag, you’re not alone. You’ve probably come across a worn-out piece, like an old table and chairs, and wondered if it could be transformed into something stylish without breaking the bank. Imagine turning a garish green and orange set into a chic, Restoration Hardware-inspired masterpiece. With a bit of effort, the right materials, and some creativity, you can easily achieve a high-end look for a fraction of the cost. Here’s how you can do it, step-by-step!
Start by finding a solid piece on platforms like Marketplace, even if it doesn’t fit your current aesthetic. A sturdy table, like the one you might find for $60, could be the perfect candidate for a transformation. All it needs is a little love and a color update! Here’s a look at how it could start—before the makeover.
Step 1: Prep Work Is Key
Before diving into any painting or staining, the most important step is prepping your surface. Start by sanding the entire table to remove any leftover paint. The goal is to create a smooth, even surface. Use medium-grit sandpaper to carefully work over the top of the table, removing all traces of old paint and rough patches. A handheld sander can make this process easier and more efficient.
Once you’re done sanding, grab a cleaner like Krud Kutter, which is great for removing grease, grime, and any lingering dirt. It will work wonders in prepping the wood for the stain. After applying the cleaner, use a tack cloth to wipe down the surface, removing any dust or debris left from sanding. This ensures that the new stain or paint will adhere properly, giving you a flawless finish.
Step 2: Staining the Table Top
To achieve a rich, natural wood look, choose a deep, warm stain. Apply it evenly with a brush, then wipe off any excess with a cloth to allow the wood grain to shine through. For that Restoration Hardware-inspired vibe, aim for a warm, earthy tone with just enough depth to give the piece a timeless, sophisticated appeal.
After letting the stain dry for a couple of hours, apply a top coat of Polycrylic to seal the surface. Polycrylic is clear, durable, and adds a slight sheen without overpowering the wood’s natural beauty. Apply several thin layers to ensure a long-lasting, protective finish.
This is how it will look before the top coat is added—matte but unprotected. The top coat will give it a durable shine that can withstand daily use.
This is AFTER the Topcoat. Use Minwax water-based) Here is the one I used
Step 3: Painting the Base
For the base of the table and chairs, skip the typical farmhouse white look and go for a more refined, subtle finish with acrylic paint. After testing a few shades, choose a soft gray with dark undertones—this will give the set that Restoration Hardware-inspired elegance.
Apply 3 coats of acrylic paint to the table base and chairs, ensuring each layer dries completely before adding the next. The goal is a smooth, solid finish with no brushstrokes or uneven patches.
- Tip-If I had to do this all over again (especially the chairs), I would use spray paint for the base of the chairs. The reason, it takes so many layers to cover every little corner of the chairs. It requires a lot of patience, but it’s totally worth it in the end when you see the amazing transformation you’ve accomplished.
Finally, to complete the look, lightly distress the edges with fine-grit sandpaper to add character and an aged charm. Sand just enough to remove some paint, creating a weathered look similar to what you’d find with Restoration Hardware pieces.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once the paint is dry, give everything a final look-over to ensure the finish is smooth and even. To really make the table and chairs pop, add a few chic accessories like stylish seat cushions and a centerpiece for the table.
Why It’s Worth the Effort
The process may take a few days of hard work, but the results will be absolutely worth it. Not only will you end up with a stylish dining set that looks like it could have come straight from Restoration Hardware, but you’ll also save a lot of money in the process. By reimagining an old, forgotten table and chairs, you can transform them into a modern, high-end piece of furniture for a fraction of the cost.
It’s a great reminder that with a little creativity, the right materials, and some elbow grease, you can turn drab into chic. If you’ve been eyeing expensive designer pieces but don’t want to break the bank, give upcycling a try. You might just surprise yourself with the transformation!
Have you upcycled any furniture recently? Let me know your favorite DIY tips and tricks in the comments!
