70’s Inspired Side Table Transformation

9/28/2021

Creative inspiration can come from anywhere. I was stuck on where to go with this outdated side table, but after watching “Motel Makeover” a series on Netflix documenting a motel renovation, I was so inspired. I knew exactly how to transform this table. The vintage 70’s feel, the warm tones of the corals, terracotta and rusty reds, reminiscent of late summer sunset that they used in the Motel Makeover's colour palette, was the perfect vibe for this table.

Here is what you need and how to create this warm, fun, vintage feel for your next project.

Materials

White Lightning
Slick Stick
Dixie Belle Mud in White
Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral paint in Lemonade, Apricot, Terracotta, Flamingo and Rusty Nail
Silk All in One Mineral paint in Saltwater
Sanding pad
Clear Coat - Glossy
Shop rags
pencil
6 paint brushes- fine art, 1" and 2"
Gator hide blue sponge

Step One
Give your furniture a quick prep. Use White Lightning to remove any grease or residue, give it a scuff sand with 220 sandpaper and wipe off with a damp shop rag.

Step Two
Use Dixie Belle Mud and a spatula to fill in any holes or damage. Let dry it completely and sand to a smooth finish.

Step Three
Since my surface is laminate and very shiny, I applied a coat of Slick Stick to the whole surface to help the paint adhere. After 2 hours, I applied another coat and then let it dry overnight.

Step Four
I wanted to replicate an abstract, curvy, vintage 70’s design on the table top. I used an image I found online for inspiration and as my guide to free hand my design on my table top. I used a pencil to create my design over the whole table top, making sure to give it a flowy look.

Pro tip- Don’t be afraid to try out a free hand design. Abstract art does not have to be perfect. Keep an eraser on hand in case you feel the need to change your design and have fun.

Step Five
To replicate the colours of a late summer sunset, I used a fine artist brush to apply paint colours in Lemonade, Terracotta, Apricot, Flamingo and Rusty Nail on each of the curves. I continued this sequence of colours until the tabletop was completely painted. Once dry, I applied another coat of each colour and painted the base of the table in Saltwater.

Step Six
I sanded the top of my table to give it a smooth finish, wiped off the residue and used the blue sponge to apply a coat of Glossy Clear Coat. Once dry, I applied another coat of Clear Coat and let it dry.

I love how this end table turned out! The curvy, 70’s vintage feel, and the combination of warm corals, rusty red and soft yellow is reminiscent of late summer sunset. This is a fun way to try out freehanding a design. Happy painting!