How to Use an Old Table for a Craft Table

An old table makes a wonderful surface for crafting. Older tables are often made of sturdier materials and with better workmanship than their modern counterparts, so the work surface will last a long time. Choose a table that is a comfortable height for you. A table that is too tall may make it hard to see all surfaces of your project; a table that is too short may cause back and neck strain. No matter what size or shape table you use, you can create a craft space that is functional and attractive with a few simple steps.

Instructions

1

Clean the table and repair any damage. Sand the table top with sandpaper. Depending on the condition of the table, start with either fine- or medium-grit paper, and sand away any dirt, debris or water rings. You do not need to sand all the way to the raw wood, just sand enough to remove the top layer and prepare the piece for the gloss sealer. Use a whisk brush or broom to clean off any sawdust generate by the sanding.

2




A coat of glossy sealer will make the craft table easy to clean.

Use the foam brush to apply gloss sealer to the table top and legs. Apply the sealer in long strokes to minimize streaking. Use several coats of sealer, and allow the table to dry completely between coats. While you wait for the table top to dry, coat the front of the yardstick with gloss sealer as well. When you are happy with the finish, let the table dry overnight.

3




Stack pennies to perfectly balance a wobbly table.

Test the table to see if it is balanced. If it wobbles, you will have a hard time crafting on it. If your table is not stable, flip it over and glue a penny or two to the problem leg. Pennies are strong enough to hold the table, but small enough to adjust the height by tiny increments. Attach pennies using an epoxy glue, and let the glue dry completely before putting the table back on its feet.

4




You'll never lose your yardstick again if you attach it to the table top.

Use epoxy or super glue to attach the yardstick to one end of the table. Place the yardstick flush with the table edge, and glue in place. Adding a permanent yardstick allows you to have a measuring tool at your fingertips whenever you need it.

5




Use decorative storage items to keep the tools of your trade close at hand.

Select some organizational items for your table. If you are an illustrator or painter, choose cups to hold pencils, markers and brushes. If you scrapbook, look for paper storage trays and stackable units to hold all of the little embellishments that make your pages special. Don't overlook the empty space beneath the table; some tables are tall enough to hide a filing cabinet or drawer set.

6

Choose a mat or outdoor style rug to go under the table and protect the floor. This is especially important if you plan on using the table for crafts requiring paint or glue. Find a decorative rug to match your room, or select a clear plastic mat from an office supply store to go under the table.