A friend tipped me off to this beauty beached on a curb bearing the sign “$1000 OR FREE.” I opted for FREE and brought it aboard. It’s been treading water waiting for its glow up for a very long time.
THE FIRST FATHOM: REPAIR
The veneer was lovely but shipwrecked. After swabbing the decks, I discovered more necessary repairs: loose screws, missing bits, lots of dings.
One major sandbar I hit was a missing decorative curlicue. I had to create a new one using a two part wood epoxy. Once mixed, the two parts activate, so you can work it like modeling clay until it hardens. I had to build a drydock for it to stay in place as it set.
It’s not super pretty here, but it will get better with more epoxy work and paint. Pearls among the oysters and all that.
See what I mean?
The legs had taken a few too many trips across the coral reef. I used Varathane® stain pens and Minwax® stain in “Espresso” to touch up the wear and tear. Big difference on the right!
FATHOM TWO: PAINT & DECOUPAGE
For a deep sea effect, I applied Farmhouse® Paint in “Old Navy” on the top. I had epic plans for this table. One might even say oceanic…
Ever since I saw this briny decoupage paper, I’ve wanted to use it. First, I applied a tidal wave of Mod Podge® to the surface of the table. I flattened the paper onto it and sealed it with another couple coats of ModPodge®.
Next, I followed along the edge of the tabletop, gently sanding away the excess paper. Finally, I applied three protective coats of Minwax® Polycrylic on top to make this table seaworthy.
This table makes a splash now!
The octopus design matches so well with the tentacle-like legs of this table. The decoupage element elevates this lovely piece of furniture… or should I say, submerges it into an eerie aquatic realm. This piece has swum to it’s new home — no longer a sunken treasure!
