So my latest project: refinishing and staining my dining room table. Ignorance is bliss, which is why I first attempted this project 3 weeks ago solo! I truly had no idea how much work this would take (seems to be a reoccurring theme here) and just blindly went for it because it was a down right cheap DIY and I was eager to have a "new" dining room set. :) This was a project that required lots of patience, muscle power, and a face mask, which sadly, I did not have! Once I began sanding the table, I saw just how much dust it produced. WHOA-my garage was a thick fog of wood dust. The initial sanding of the tabletop was a breeze, things got trickier when I started sanding the table legs and chairs. I became tired VERY quickly but pushed on because I wanted it DONE. I have to admit, it was so refreshing to uncover a smooth surface beneath. Before, my table top had been covered with scratches and dings and was very uneven in texture and appearance. It had white rings from heat and just major wear and tear from years and years of use. (This table was a hand me down from my parents, who got it originally from our neighbors in Southlake when they moved.) Bottom line, it was beaten up and desperately needed some TLC that would uncover all it's underlying beauty. Take a peek at this pitiful surface:
 |
| Oh how I miss those cheerful peonies! Just LOVELY! :) |
After sanding, a clean slate was revealed and I applied a dark expresso stain/polyurethane. I was thankful that they sold them as one nowadays!
Previously, I would have had to use two separate products and it would have added
As you can see from the picture, I also moved an ottoman to one side of the table. It seems to create more open space and provide a comfy little bench on one side. I playfully threw on my little sheepskin rug as well to add some more texture and personality to the room. Below are the before and after shots:
 |
| BEFORE |
 |
| AFTER |
The final touch to this room will be to flank the windows with some inexpensive Roman shades from IKEA. One thing at a time though! Naturally, I do NOT have an eye for decorating, but I am an excellent copycat! (My entire dining room was copied from online photos I have seen from thrifty, inspirational DIYers.)
I have many other small projects that have yet to make it to the blog. My biggest focus right now is bringing my living room up to speed, one small sale at a time. Bigger pieces aren't going anywhere so the key is to use what I have and just add the surrounding details. I discovered an awesome website for designing "moodboards" for free. You simply place photos of your couch, media center, etc. with other objects for your room (you can use your own photos of existing pieces you own OR clip photos of items from various stores) and it gives you an idea of the big picture before you commit. It is really helping me put together a rug, curtains, lamps, etc. not to mention different colors and textures, and see them all together. I have learned the hard way (think multiple rug/curtain returns) that just one cute piece doesn't make the room. I don't want to be too matchy-matchy but also need a cohesive theme. I am LOVING this site for so many ideas and ways of seeing my furnishings among fresh new pieces!
Just click on "create a moodboard" to drag and drop various pieces (yours and from all different stores) to create your dream room. You can also browse existing moodboards to get ideas if needed.
