Chalk Painted Coffee Table

I picked up a small, rather neglected, coffee table.  I could see it had a lot of potential, so I grabbed it.  I have never used chalk paint before, but this looked like the perfect first project to try it on.  I was so anxious to get started on it, that I didn't take any "before" pictures.  I DID get some "during" pictures though -

Here it is with a couple of coats of white chalk paint.  I used American Decor.  The top of the table wasn't in the best shape, so chalk paint was a good fit.  Here it is all painted - looks better already.

Next, I distressed the edges and the legs a little bit.  It has a lovely shell detail on the sides which, when distressed really brought out the design.

Finally, to complete the shabby chic look, I stenciled a design on the top with grey craft paint, then waxed it.

And, here is the final result - perfect for a living room, den, or covered back porch!  Currently adorable and for sale at $40.

Not so boring anymore!  What was your first experience with chalk paint?

Shabby Chic Table Set

I recently picked up a wooden table and chair set.  It was pretty beat up and not very pretty, so I felt compelled to rescue it!  Here are some sad "before" pictures:

Then, I discovered 2 metal bistro chairs to complete the look!  I couldn't pass them up and knew they would look great when redone and would be a unique addition to this set.  Here is their "before" picture:

I started by sanding down the table top and applying a dark stain and several coats of satin polycrylic. Then I painted the legs white and distressed them.

 The dark paint from the original color came through beautifully!  Then I painted the bench a deep grey color and distressed both the seat and the legs:

The two wooden chairs received a coat of deep grey as well, were lightly distressed and I added a white flower detail to the backs for interest.

Finally, I spray painted the metal bistro chairs the same deep grey color and recovered the seats with new fabric in a grey and white pattern - much better!

And here is the completed set, ready to go to it's new owner.  Priced to sell at $350 - let me know if you are interested.  Local pickups only at this time.

I love when a project turns out exactly as I pictured it in my head!  What have you been working on lately?