Painted Kitchen Table Ideas

Checkerboard Table

• Create a checkerboard table where your family can actually play checkers or chess. Decide on the size of the checkerboard and the individual checks. Transfer your measurements onto the table and use masking tape to mark off the areas you don't want painted. Paint over the entire checkerboard in red and let dry completely. Then, use more masking tape to create the checkerboard pattern. Anywhere you place the tape, it remains red. Paint over the surface in black and once it's thoroughly dry, remove the tape. Cover in a clear sealant, to protect the table. Alternatively, paint the table in a new color first and let dry completely before adding the checkerboard pattern.

Stenciled Look

• Give your kitchen table a vintage feel by painting the entire table in a light color, such as white, cream, pale yellow or sky blue. Find decorative stencils in a pattern you like and decide where to place that decoration on the table. Use stencil glue to keep the stencil flat against the table or hold in place with a few pieces of tape. Paint over the stencil in a brighter color and once dry, pull off the stencil. Use stencils that work with the design of your kitchen. If you have an apple motif, then add a stenciled apple basket to the center of the table or a group of apples along the side.

Shabby and Chic

• For a shabby and chic painted kitchen table, you need two colors of paint and sandpaper. Start by roughening up the table with the sandpaper, rubbing off the finish in different spots. Vary the strength and speed of your rub to give the surface an uneven look. Paint the table in a darker or brighter shade first, like lime green or fire engine red. After the paint dries, apply a coat of white paint to the table and let that dry. The brighter color shows through in different patches and spots on the table.