How to Paint a Coffee Table to Modernize Your Living Room
Love the mid-century modern look but not the price tag? A simple furniture flip could bring a total transformation to a vintage piece. Follow the instructions below on how to paint a two-toned coffee table and update it with a modern look.
Cost: $
Skill Level: Intermediate
Duration: 1 day
Clean
Clean all surfaces of the table using a bucket of soapy water and sponge to remove dirt and oils before priming.
Sand
Sand all the wood surfaces of the coffee table. Wipe dust with a damp cloth.
Colors We Used
Like what you see? Here are the shades we used for this project.
Prime Table
Now prime the rest of the table with a mini roller, using the “W” technique and let dry.
Tape
Since you'll be painting the exterior first, use painter’s tape to section off the exterior area of the coffee table.
Apply Exterior Color
Using a brush, apply Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel in Rockweed SW 2735 to the edges of the exterior surface.
Roll Exterior Color
Use a mini roller to paint the remaining exterior surfaces, going the direction of the grain.
Re-tape
Wait at least four hours for the paint to fully dry. Then, tape off the freshly painted section in preparation for applying the next color for the interior of the coffee table.
Apply Interior Color
Use a brush to apply your second shade of Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel in Reflecting Pool SW 6486 to the inside edges and corners.
Roll Interior Color
Use a mini roller to paint the remainder of the table. Let dry then remove tape and enjoy your coffee table makeover.
Tip: Always clean your brushes for future use. Learn how to properly store and dispose of paint here.
Project Supplies
PAINT & PRIMER
BRUSHES, ROLLERS & FRAMES
TAPE
TRAYS
OTHER TOOLS & SUPPLIES
- Small bucket with cleaner ⁄ degreaser
- Sanding sponge
- Tape measure
- Pencil
Popular Coffee Table Colors
Here are more shades we love for this project.