Today we’ve got a quick side table before and after for you before you head over to the real business at hand at Jamie’s, the 4th day of Organizing 101: Back to Basics. ![]()

This is a transformation of a little side table we’ve had sitting outside for a few years. A side table we bought at the same auction we got our frame and couches at a few years ago.
It was a random thing, the auction … I guess every 5 years or so the US Consulate auctions off their old house furniture, office furniture and other randomness. I’d say we scored big that day. It was a random morning of pouring rain. Perfect for me. None of the ‘auction light weights’ even bothered to come. Getting a deal on good quality stuff was like fishing in a bucket. :) We got six tables (side table, end tables, night stands) that day for $110 total. Sweet!
And when I got to thinking about the blog room organization project a couple of weeks ago I knew I needed to come up with some kind of additional work space … that ideally wouldn’t cost me anything.
Turns out … this unused little side table is the exact same height as my book page covered file cabinet.

A light sanding to get rid of all loose debris, a few coats of paint, some dry brushing … a little white washing in various spots and a little light and dark wax.
A pop of black inside the drawer.
And this unused, unattractive table has a new life.

And is the perfect base for a new desk. Yay!
You have actually seen a peek of the new desk, but we’ll be taking a closer look tomorrow.
You first saw the board I used at the desk top here … and you all know how I love chippy old wood. :)
Now head over to C.R.A.F.T. and find out how to get your blog organized!
And tell me, what do you think of the beginning of my desk base?





















Amazing job! I love the color. it reminds me of sea glass which is going to look awesome in your house.
I love that colour too!
It’s totally unrecognizable! In a good way!
Yep, I can see what you mean, its all about the wax. Beautiful soft sheen. Great patina you created with your artistry and color selections. So glad I read this before I paint my “new” (thrifted) mirror, had totally forgotten about the power of dry brush accents. Love that you painted the interior black, so smart.
Karah,
What a great auction score … and I cannot believe it’s the same table! Looks fabulous! Did you use your Haven swag to transform?
Linda
i think i heard it breathe a sigh of relief…. great job!
I love it! And the colour is incredible!!!
That’s the same table?…Love it….the color is perfect….so nice to cross off another project from the list…Great job Karah!!….
So cute! I love it! Can’t wait to see it as part of the desk!
Another great transformation.
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I love the color and the picture it is very pretty!
Sherry
Thank you, Sherry!!
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Great color with that black inside the cubby hole. I love the versatility of small tables – they can become real work horses!
Thank you so much, Donna!
Boy, that looks great. What an improvement! I keep seeing the wonders of chalkpaint! Gonna have to give it a whirl!
For me, it’s the wax that makes all the difference!
WOW you sure did work your magic!!!!! Sending hugs to you and yours and of course the M&M team!!! : ) Thanks for sharing with us : ) YOU ROCK!
Thank you my friend!