DIY Thrift Store Side Table Makeover: From Dated to Designer

Thrift stores are treasure troves for DIY enthusiasts, especially when it comes to furniture. One common find is the glass and brass side table, often reminiscent of the 1980s. But don’t let their dated appearance fool you! With a little creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can transform these cast-offs into stunning pieces that add character and style to your home.

This tutorial will guide even beginner DIYers through the process of updating a thrift store side table. We’ll focus on replacing a missing or unwanted glass top with a beautifully stained wood piece, giving the table a modern and sophisticated look. This project is not only budget-friendly but also a fantastic way to express your personal style and create a unique piece of furniture.

Inspiration: Matte Brass and Wood Side Table — Inspiration: A round, two-shelf table. Source: Target via Pinterest

The inspiration for this project comes from the current trend of matte brass and wood furniture. This combination exudes a sense of warmth and elegance, making it a perfect addition to any living space. The image above showcases a favorite example of this style, which we’ll use as a guide for our thrift store transformation.

I stumbled upon a pair of these side tables at a local thrift store for just $7 each! They were already matte brass, which was a huge bonus, but they both had glass tops. One was in good condition and found a home in my guest bedroom. However, the other table was missing a glass piece, presenting the perfect opportunity for a DIY makeover. I decided to replace the missing glass with stained wood, adding a touch of rustic charm and completing the desired aesthetic.

Materials Needed for Your Thrift Store Side Table Transformation

Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a comprehensive list:

Thrift store glass and metal table
Plywood (size depends on your table; two 2×2 sheets are often sufficient)
Jigsaw (A Craftsman corded saw is a reliable option)
Sawhorses
Clamps
Sander or sanding block
Small can of wood stain (sample size is usually enough)
Spray paint (optional, if you want to change the color of the metal frame)

Shopping Tip: For a beautiful brass finish, consider Krylon Gold Leaf or Rustoleum Antique Brass spray paint. These provide a rich, metallic look.

Materials for DIY Side Table Makeover — Source: Saw Horses: Sears; Wood Stain: Minwax; Plywood: Home Depot; Sanding Block: Amazon; Jigsaw: Amazon; Clamp: Amazon

Step 1: Tracing the Cut

If you have the original glass piece, use it as a template to trace the shape onto your plywood. If the glass is missing, carefully measure the opening of the table and create a template using cardboard or paper before transferring it to the wood.

Before buying expensive wood, check your local home improvement store for cut-offs or damaged pieces. These are often available for a fraction of the price. I found my wood for this project for just $3!

Step 2: Securing the Wood

Place your plywood on sawhorses or a woodworking table and securely clamp it down. This will ensure stability and prevent the wood from shifting while you’re cutting.

Step 3: Cutting the Wood

Put on your safety goggles and use a jigsaw to carefully cut out the shape you traced. For more accurate cuts, work away at the excess wood. You may need to turn the wood and re-clamp it several times to cut out the piece completely. This method is safer and yields more precise results, so don’t skip this step!

While I used a jigsaw for my hexagon-shaped piece, a table saw or circular saw might be more suitable for rectangular or square wood shapes.

In my opinion, the jigsaw is one of the easiest power tools to use, making it an excellent starting point for beginner DIYers or those who are hesitant to use power tools. However, for your first time, I strongly advise against using any power tool alone. Always have someone experienced nearby to guide you.

Step 4: Sanding the Wood

Once you’ve finished cutting, sand down the sides and top of the wood piece to create a smooth surface. Remove any rough edges or splinters. Then, place the sanded wood back into your table to ensure it fits perfectly. Make any necessary adjustments at this stage.

Step 5: Staining the Wood

Apply your chosen wood stain to the sanded wood piece, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the stain to dry completely before placing the wood back into your table. Consider applying multiple coats for a richer color.

The wood adds a touch of natural warmth and a contrasting texture that complements the brass frame, creating a harmonious blend of feminine and masculine elements.

Now it’s your turn! Head to your local thrift store, find an 80s glass and brass table, and give it some love with this easy DIY makeover. You’ll be amazed at the transformation!