DIY Black and White Dining Table

 
One of my first projects for this space was the dining room table. I couldn't find one that was both affordable and large enough so I decided to order a big natural wood table from the French version of Target, www.laredoute.fr and paint it.

I always wanted a black and white theme so I decide to go with a black and white stripped theme which I find both modern and classic.

This was a surprisingly easy project it just took a little planing and measuring.

Materials:
- wood table
- paint (black & white), can even be spray paint
- paintbrush
- masking tape
- tape measure or ruler
- paint sealer (this is important! I forgot this the first time around, the table was sticky and paint kept coming off. So make sure you get a sealer)

Step 1. If you are not using natural untreated wood like I was, sand your surface and try to get as much of the old paint off as you can.

Step 2. Prepare your stripped pattern on the top of the table using masking tape. Measure out stripes of about 6 inches and cover the entire width with the tape. By covering as much of the stripe with tape you are enduring that you do not get any of the other color when you are painting the nearby stripe.

Step 3. Paint all your stripes either white or black. It might be easier to start with the white so you can cover mistakes easier with the black after. Let the painted stripes dry for at least an hour (i let it dry about a day and a half). Do not remove the tape until you are sure everything is dry. When you do remove the tape do it carefully so you don't rip any of the paint off.

Step 4. Cover the edges of the already painted stripes with a layer of masking tape.

Step 5. Paint the other color stripes on the top of the table and the legs and edges of your table. Wait for everything to dry at least a day or two.

Step 6. Apply a thin layer of sealer (clear polyurethane) with a roller brush for smooth finish. After it dries apply a second coat and voila!

        

****Warning: When sealing white paint, use a water-based sealer because an oil-based one can turn the paint yellow. When applying sealer on a vertical surface, do not have too much polyurethane on the brush. If there is too much, it might cause running streaks on the furniture. If you have a small piece of furniture, such as a plant stand or side table, an aerosol spray sealer will be your easiest option. Aerosol sealers are available in matte and gloss finishes. They work well on ornate furniture to fit in the grooves and detailed areas.