Farm Table Transformation Part 2

So here we are at part 2 of this table transformation.

In the last post I showed you how I removed the laminate off the tabletop.

Today I want to show you how I stained the top and completely transformed the look of this table.

I use all kinds of stains but for this project I decided to use Minwax Golden Pecan and Espresso.  I like mixing these two stains to create an aged look.  I typically use General Finishes Gel Stains which I also love but I’m trying to use up all of the products I have so Minwax it is.

I start with the lighter color and then add in the dark here and there and then rub them together.

Here’s a progress photo of the table with stain, without stain and also the leftover piece of the laminate I removed.

Can you believe the transformation?!?!?!!?!?

Oh and did I mention this is a Ethan Allen table that came from the factory with this laminate on it apparently people wanted laminate back in the day!  WHAT?!?!?!

If you remember I used a planer to remove the luan that was under the laminate.  Well as I was doing that I decided to use it to make some grooves in the wood and create a more worn look.

 

Once I had applied stain to the entire top it was time for topcoat.

My favorite topcoat is General Finishes High Performance Top Coat in Satin.

I absolutely swear by it.

I’ve used it on everything from stained wood to chalk painted furniture.

It’s very durable and doesn’t yellow.

 

I applied 3 liberal coats, lightly sanding between them.

I also painted the chairs in Letterpress DIY Chalk and Clay Paint.

I was so happy to get this little crackle effect because once again I love a worn look.

And here’s the table all finished.

Can you believe how amazing it turned out?!?!

I mean who in the world would’ve imagined that all this beautiful wood would be underneath all that ugly laminate.

Oh and here’s the bench…remember it’s the only reason I bought the set.

Thanks for reading friends!

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