Drop Leaf Table Makeover: Before and After

Dated drop leaf tables get a vintage modern makeover with new paint and hardware!

First off, I want to apologize. If you follow me on Instagram then you may be expecting to see my vintage Christmas decorated kitchen.

In my defense, I had all intentions of sharing my decorated kitchen, but last-minute sales at my vintage booth at Sweet Clover Barn derailed my plans and threw me into "furniture makeover" overdrive.

I can't even remember the last time I shared a furniture makeover, but this quick and easy drop leaf side table makeover was too good not to share.

Vintage modern painted drop leaf table makeover

Drop leaf tables aren't my style, but they are pretty common and easy to find at auctions, estate sales or on Facebook Marketplace (it can be harder to find matching tables at thrift stores). They are also super easy to update and transform from drab and dated to stylish and modern.

- SUPPLIES USED TO MAKEOVER DROP LEAF TABLES-

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- General Finishes Lamp Black milk paint

- Finishing Wax

- Dewalt Orbital Sander

- 120 Grit Sandpaper

- Kwikwood wood filler epoxy

- Drill

- Purdy Paint Brush

- Iron Black Coated Bin Pulls

- Small Drill Bit

- Lint Free Rag or Wax Brush

- Screwdriver

- Simple Green

- Tape measure

- HOW TO TRANSFORM A DATED DROP LEAF TABLE-

I bought my tables from a local auction and knew right away how I was going to give them a more modern look. The drop leaves, unflattering finish and brass batwing hardware definitely dated them and had to go.

I started by removing the hardware that attached the drop leaves then filled the holes with one of my favorite wood fillers. I gave the tables a good sanding, wiped them clean, painted two coats of Lamp Black, distressed them a bit, sealed them with finishing wax then added new black matte bin pulls.

Removing the drop leaves made the biggest impact on these little tables, but the addition of black paint and matte black pulls definitely kicked them up a notch. Did I change the way you view drop leaf tables? I hope I gave you some inspiration to not think twice about grabbing a pair next time you see a set while out thrifting.