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Repurposed Pedestal Table: From Kitchen to Coffee Table

Transforming a Pedestal Kitchen Table into a Stunning Coffee Table

Have you ever looked at a piece of furniture and envisioned something completely different? That’s exactly what happened when I stumbled upon a pedestal-style kitchen table. For years, I had been searching for the perfect table to repurpose into a round coffee table for my family room. The goal? A coffee table without sharp corners, perfect for a household with young children.

The Hunt for the Perfect Pedestal Table

The search proved to be more challenging than I initially anticipated. Finding a sturdy, wooden pedestal table at a reasonable price seemed almost impossible. Many people were unwilling to part with their quality wood tables for a low price, and even thrift stores priced them higher than I wanted to spend on a piece I planned to cut up and repaint. Just when I was about to give up, I drove past a local thrift shop and spotted it – a pedestal table beckoning me from the curb.

A Lucky Thrift Store Find

I stopped on a whim, and to my surprise, the table was priced at $75. Hoping for a better deal, I inquired about potential discounts. The shop owner informed me that everything was 50% off that day! With tax, the final price came to just under $40, a steal for my project. This table wasn’t solid wood; the pedestal and feet were, but the tabletop was veneer. However, this wasn’t a deal-breaker for me. This wasn’t going to be an heirloom piece, and the MDF core made the tabletop thicker and sturdier than an all-wood alternative, meaning it could withstand my kids leaning on it without tipping over.

The Transformation Begins

Unfortunately, I didn’t get a proper “before” picture because my enthusiastic husband immediately started disassembling the table as soon as I got it out of the car. However, I did manage to snap a photo of the pedestal before it underwent its transformation:

Pedestal table before transformation

My husband cut down the pedestal, replaced the screws, and then we decided to trim it down even further once we got it inside to achieve the desired height:

Pedestal table after initial cut

Sanding and Priming: The Messy Middle

Next came the sanding process. It rained for two days straight while I was working on this project, so I had to do all the sanding in my living room. Let’s just say my dusting schedule got bumped up that week!

Sanding the pedestal table

After sanding, I applied two thin coats of primer and a white base coat. The kids quickly turned the tabletop into a Beyblade arena and a stage for their toys. Ah, the joys of DIY projects with kids around!

Primed and painted tabletop
Primed and painted tabletop - kids playing

Choosing the Perfect Color

Instead of simply painting the table white, I decided to use a seaglass green/blue color. It’s a soothing shade that adds a touch of color without being overwhelming, perfect for a centerpiece in the family room.

Seaglass Green Paint Color
Seaglass Green Paint Swatch

The Finishing Touches

I was so eager to finish the table that I skipped waxing it initially. As a result, the tabletop appeared to have uneven paint in some areas. However, a coat of wax paste helped to even out the finish, creating a soft, smooth look. This step is crucial for achieving a professional and durable finish.

Finished Coffee Table

I am incredibly pleased with the final result. The coffee table is exactly what I envisioned when I started searching for a “victim” – I mean, a table – all those months ago.

The Frugal DIY Project

The total cost of the project was surprisingly low:

  • Table: $40
  • Sandpaper: $3

I already had the paint, sander, and other painting supplies, making this a very budget-friendly project.

Why This DIY Project Works

Repurposing a pedestal kitchen table into a coffee table is an excellent way to add a unique and personalized touch to your home decor. This project is perfect for those looking to:

  • Create a safer environment for children by eliminating sharp corners.
  • Add a unique and personalized furniture piece to their home.
  • Save money by repurposing an existing piece of furniture.
  • Reduce waste by upcycling and giving new life to an old table.

Tips for Your Own Coffee Table Transformation

If you are inspired to create your own pedestal table coffee table, here are a few tips to consider:

  • Choose the Right Table: Look for a sturdy pedestal table with a tabletop that is the desired size and shape for your coffee table.
  • Prepare the Surface: Thoroughly sand the table to remove any existing finish and create a smooth surface for painting.
  • Use Quality Paint: Invest in a high-quality paint that is durable and easy to clean.
  • Consider a Protective Finish: Apply a coat of wax, polyurethane, or varnish to protect the paint and enhance the table’s durability.
  • Get Creative with the Design: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, finishes, and decorative elements to create a unique coffee table that reflects your personal style.

Conclusion: A Successful DIY Adventure

Transforming a pedestal kitchen table into a stylish and functional coffee table was a rewarding experience. Not only did I create a beautiful and family-friendly furniture piece for my home, but I also saved money and reduced waste by repurposing an existing table. This project proves that with a little creativity and effort, you can transform ordinary items into extraordinary pieces of home decor. So, next time you see an old piece of furniture at a thrift store, consider its potential and imagine the possibilities!