Transform a Vintage Typewriter Table into a Stylish Bar Cart
Not too long ago, secretaries and other administrative helpers used typewriters. In offices, special tables were designated just for these writing tools.
Since we are now high-tech and our needs have changed, there’s no reason to put these small, working tables out to pasture. Instead, upcycle them into stylish bar carts using spray paint and stencils. Their sleek size, adjustable top, and lightweight construction all make them a welcome addition to your home, condo, or apartment.
Here’s How:
1. Find your good and a typewriter table at Goodwill
Another item to add to your “gotta take it home now” list when you are looking for interesting pieces at Goodwill are those small, metal typewriter tables. Back in the day, typewriters had their very own small tables that were set next to desks to hold them, along with paper and more. Yes, times have certainly changed, but not the appeal of their sleek, utilitarian look.
When I came across the typewriter table featured here, I knew it could be easily upcycled as a bar cart, so for a few dollars, I took it home with me. Another thrifting score!
2. Clean it up to get ready for its transformation
This wonderful table, with its little wheels and curved metal edges, only needed some soap and water to remove years of dust, dirt, and grime. As I was doing so, I noticed it was made in my hometown—Toledo, Ohio! Another reason to recognize that I found my good at Goodwill!
What other prep do you need to do for your table? Tighten screws? Remove labels? Discard any unwanted parts? Do so now so she is ready to go.
3. Spray on some shimmer & shine
Sometimes, the hardest part of any DIY project is selecting the color. There are many great choices. In this case, it was very easy. I knew immediately when I saw it that gold would make this small piece sparkle and shine. Also, gold seemed like an ideal color choice to bring out its Mid-Century modern look and feel. You want to know the icing on the cake? I already had a can of gold spray paint on hand, so there was no cost at all for this piece’s sparkling transformation!
If possible, place your piece outside on a drop cloth. Place your table on its side and add a light layer, moving around it as you go. Allow time for the paint to dry, then set the table on another side and add more paint. Finally, set it back upright and add another very light layer. By placing your table in various positions as you paint, you’ll ensure each part, edge, nook, and cranny gets covered with paint.
4. Stencil on style
The solid gold tone will look amazing as you transform this piece from 1950s June Cleaver to 2020s Lady Gaga. When we upcycle an item, we always want to consider how we can make it truly unique. Stencils and black paint were all it took to help this piece shed its office attire for good.
How to use a stencil? Follow these simple steps.
- A. Measure your space to determine placement.
- B. Secure stencil with painter’s tape.
- C. Use a foam stamping tool to apply a light yet solid layer of paint.
- D. Remove stencil.
- E. Repeat.
Expert Tips:
Ensure you wash your fingers in between each stencil application to avoid adding paint smudges and painted fingerprints. Also, stamp on light paint layers, as thicker applications may get under your stencil and impact its crisp look and lines.
5. Protect with Poly
Spray or brush on a coat or two of polyurethane to protect your stencil and allow for easy clean-up. Consider using a semi-gloss finish to give it some shine.
6. Arrange & add amazing accessories
This stylish bar cart will look great in any decorative style, given its nice lines and lovely details. Arrange it in your place then add interesting and eye-catching accessories also picked up at Goodwill for a buck or two. The beautiful decanter set featured here was also picked up at Goodwill, and its design, as well as gold and black tones, made it the perfect decorative accessory.
Where will you place your typewriter-table-turned-bar-cart? What cool items will you add to make it functional and fun? The sky is the limit, and its look is timeless!
Similar Reads:
Tim Kime
Artist, Motivational Speaker, Life Coach
