An Easy Thrifted Flip: How to Paint a Simple Chalkboard End Table

This is what this sad little table looked like the first time I saw it.  Bikeman texted this photo to me while I was working at Roses and Rust.  He enjoys being my picker!  So far he’s found SIX small tables and a vintage sewing machine cabinet.  I’ve only painted two tables and the cabinet. Plus I have two more frames and two of our own tables that I need to paint.  I’m way behind! I think he paid $5 for this one that I decided to turn into a chalkboard end table.

I love the scroll edge on this and even the faux leather top.  But it was pretty scratched up so I decided to paint it and add a chalkboard top.  I’d seen so many nice pieces painted CeCe Caldwell’s Memphis Blue on Instagram recently.  I knew I wanted to try it.  Jordy thought I should add the chalkboard top and I have to say I think it was a great idea! But now she wants it for her apartment.  Maybe I’ll give her a discount.

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Supplies Needed for Blue Chalkboard End Table

• blue chalk or mineral paint
• • UPDATE: I used CeCe Caldwell’s Memphis Blue but I don’t even know if they’re still in business. I couldn’t find this color online anywhere. I think Dixie Belle’s Haint Blue is a pretty close match.
• chalkboard paint — I used Americana Chalkboard Paint for this project.
• clear wax — Again, CeCe Caldwell’s wax isn’t available. Dixie Belle’s Best Dang Wax, Clear is comparable.
• paintbrushes — Zibra’s 2″ angle sash brush is my favorite for projects like this one.
• cotton rags

{{{See a complete list of what’s in my toolbox and supply cabinet.}}}

How to Paint an Old Side Table

One: Clean the Table

Chalk-type paints are great because they don’t require much prep work. I just wiped the table down with a regular household spray cleaner and a rag.

Two: Paint

I went back and forth trying to decide whether to paint the blue first or the black. I decided to paint the table blue first, then come back and add the chalkboard top.

This color took two coats, probably because it was lighter and the wood was dark. The chalkboard top also took two coats.

Three: Wet Distress the Chalk Paint

I just went over the edges and details with a wet cloth and rubbed off some of the paint.

Four: Seal with Clear Wax

I think I’m getting the hang of clear wax.  Another thing I like about it is that it doesn’t drip or smell.  So I waxed this in the middle of the living room last week while Glenn was gone and I was catching up on all the TV shows that he doesn’t like (Nashville, Project Runway, Mad Men, etc.)

More Thrifted Table Makeovers

If you liked this side table project, check out these other chalkboard paint projects I’ve done:

• Chalkboard Coffee Table Makeover
• Chalkboard Table Makeover
• How to Make a Chalkboard Menu

‘Til the next project,

 Ann @ Duct Tape and Denim

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Originally published on Apr 23, 2014.