DIY Buffalo Plaid Table Makeover: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking to add a touch of rustic charm to your home decor? The buffalo plaid pattern, also known as buffalo check, is a timeless design that brings warmth and style to any space. I’ve always been drawn to the bold contrast of black and white, and what better way to showcase this combination than with the iconic buffalo plaid? For years, I’ve incorporated this classic pattern, traditionally seen in red and black flannel, into my fall and winter wardrobe and home accents. Last year, I even decorated an entire Christmas tree for just $10, and buffalo check was the star of the show!

When I stumbled upon a sturdy little table at a thrift store for only $8, I knew it was the perfect canvas for a giant gingham (buffalo plaid) makeover. With a little paint, some tape, and a bit of patience, I transformed this ordinary side table into a unique and eye-catching statement piece. This project is perfect for beginners and experienced DIYers alike. Follow along, and you’ll have your own stylish buffalo plaid table in no time!

Transform Your Space: The Buffalo Plaid Table Project

This DIY project offers a fantastic way to repurpose old furniture and create a personalized touch in your home. The buffalo plaid pattern is versatile and complements a variety of interior design styles, from farmhouse chic to modern minimalist. Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding project that you can complete in a weekend. Let’s get started and delve into the step-by-step process of creating your own buffalo plaid painted coffee table.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Create Your Buffalo Plaid Table

Ready to embark on your DIY adventure? Here’s a comprehensive guide to painting your own buffalo plaid coffee table:

Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following supplies:

• Paint in black, white, and grey (I recommend Americana Decor Chalky Finish for its quick-drying properties)
• Foam paint brushes
• Drop cloth (to protect your work surface)
• Painter’s tape (1 1/2″ wide is ideal)
• Pencil and measuring tape
• Sealer (I used Decor Art’s Creme Wax, but any water-based sealer will work)
• Sandpaper (medium grit)
• Power sander (optional, but it speeds up the sanding process)
• Primer (spray primer is convenient)

Step 1: Preparing the Table

Proper preparation is key to a successful paint job. Start by thoroughly sanding the table. This will create a smooth surface for the primer and paint to adhere to. I used a power sander to quickly smooth out the surface, but you can also use sandpaper if you prefer. Once you’ve sanded the table, remove all the dust with a clean cloth.

Step 2: Priming and Base Coat

Apply a coat of primer to the entire table. I used a spray primer for a quick and even coat. The primer will help the paint adhere better and provide a clean base for the buffalo plaid pattern. Once the primer is dry, paint the entire table white, including the top and legs. Allow the white paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step. Chalk paint is a great option because it dries very quickly, which is helpful when dealing with multiple layers and taping.

Step 3: Taping the First Set of Stripes

Now comes the fun part – creating the buffalo plaid pattern! Using 1 1/2″ wide painter’s tape, tape off 3″ stripes across the top of the table, leaving equal space between the stripes. This will create 3 x 3″ squares in the finished pattern. Make sure the tape is securely adhered to the surface to prevent paint bleed.

Step 4: Painting the First Set of Stripes

Paint the exposed stripes grey. You could also use black if you prefer a classic red and black buffalo plaid. Apply an even coat of paint and allow it to dry completely. Chalk paint’s quick-drying properties will come in handy here.

Step 5: Removing the Tape

Once the paint is completely dry, carefully remove the tape. This will reveal the first set of stripes in your buffalo plaid pattern.

Step 6: Taping the Second Set of Stripes

Now, tape 3″ sections going the other direction on the table. I recommend starting at the center of the table in both directions to ensure the lines end at the same point on either side. This will create a symmetrical and visually appealing pattern.

Step 7: Painting the Remaining Squares

Paint any square that is currently white with the grey paint as well. Let it dry completely.

Step 8: Tape the Grey Squares

Then, tape over the sections you have just painted. Your tape lines will line up with the original tape lines again.

Step 9: Painting the Final Squares

Finally, paint the squares that have been created by the grid of tape all black. When it is dry you can remove all the tape.

Step 10: Sealing the Table

To protect your beautiful buffalo plaid design, seal the table with a creme wax or water-based sealer. Apply the sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help prevent scratches and stains, ensuring your table looks its best for years to come.

More Furniture Ideas and Inspiration

Looking for more DIY furniture projects and ideas? Here are a few suggestions:

• Repurpose Old Furniture: Give new life to old dressers, chairs, or bookshelves with a fresh coat of paint and updated hardware.
• Create Custom Storage Solutions: Build your own shelves, cabinets, or storage benches to maximize space and organization in your home.
• Add Unique Accents: Incorporate decorative elements like stencils, decoupage, or fabric to personalize your furniture and create one-of-a-kind pieces.

Experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures to create furniture that reflects your personal style and enhances your home decor. With a little creativity and effort, you can transform ordinary pieces into extraordinary works of art.

This project originally showed how to make a buffalo plaid side table using a black, white, and gray color scheme. Feel free to explore and make your own design!