Project list
Sign in to your account
With project lists you can...
Please sign in or create an account to use Project Lists
First things first – remove those daggy, old legs from your existing coffee table. There are several ways to do this – with a drill or a screwdriver for example – but we're using a nifty Allen key set as our screws have a hex head. These sets are great – they come complete with not only a Phillips head and normal screwdriver, but also every Allen key size available, so you're bound to find the right fit for your screw!
Before you set about painting, make sure your table top is clean and dust free (use a rag and some hot, soapy water to give it a spruce up.) If your table is glossy, give it a light sand – this will help your paint adhere to the surface. After you've done this, wipe away any excess dust with a microfibre cloth.
Once you've picked out your colour – we're using a chalk paint in hues picked to match our interior – give it a good shake and a stir to make sure the pigment is mixed well. Then pour into a tray. Roll out your roller in the tray a few times before you start, then apply your paint in smooth, even motions across your table top. You'll want to start nice and thick, then even it out with long, straight even strokes.
Once your first coat is dry, you're ready to apply your second (one coat may suffice if your wood is light, but we needed two for this table). When it's dry, carefully turn your table over on a clean drop sheet or piece of material – this chalk paint marks pretty easily, so take care during this step as you don't want your new paint job to mark.
You're now ready to attach your new hairpin legs (these are available to buy from Bunnings). Mark where the screws will go, then measure the length of your intended screw against the thickness of the table. This is an important step, as you don't want to accidentally drill right through your tabletop. Measure the length of your screw against the drill bit you're using (this needs to be slightly smaller than your screw) and mark your drill bit up with masking tape (only drill to that point). Drill a pilot hole before you use your screw – and remember to use safety glasses for this bit.
And your legs are attached! How easy was that? In just a few steps we've totally breathed new life into our daggy old piece of furniture, turning it into a stylish, on-trend coffee table.
Watch the full episode and more D.I.Y. projects from Make It Yours Episode 4: Lounge Makeover by Rachel-Lee and Rachel Aust.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
