If you're in need of a home desk, but you don't have the funds to purchase a new one, make your own desk from an unused or reclaimed dining table. A dining table provides an ample work surface, making it a well-suited piece for a desk, and transforming an unused or reclaimed dining table is a budget-friendly way to acquire this piece of furniture. Instead of simply setting a chair in front of the table, revamp the piece with paint to make it feel less formal.
Instructions
1. Sand all surfaces of the table with medium-grit sandpaper. Sanding the table will scuff up the varnish on a finished table, allowing the paint to better adhere to the surface. If the table is made of unfinished wood, you can still sand it to smooth out the surface. You can skip the step altogether, as unfinished wood will easily accept paint.
2. Wipe down the surface of the table with a clean, damp cloth to remove any sawdust, dirt and debris.
3. Apply an oil-based primer to the surface of the a clean handheld paintbrush. Use smooth, even strokes to apply the primer. When priming the legs and sides, start at the top and work your way down. When priming the tabletop, follow the grain of the wood. Allow the primer to dry for 24 hours.
4. Paint the table with latex paint in a color of your choice. Apply the paint with a clean handheld paintbrush. Start with the tabletop, applying the paint in smooth, even strokes that follow the grain of the wood. Paint the sides and legs of the table, working from top to bottom. Allow the paint to dry for 12 hours and apply another coat of paint in the same manner. Let the second coat of paint dry for 24 hours.
5. Seal the table with a polyurethane finish. Apply the finish with a clean handheld paintbrush. Follow the same procedure used for applying the primer and paint for applying the finish. Allow the finish to dry for 24 hours.
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