Tree Table

Tree stumps, used individually or clustered together, function as low tables in a living room. A coat of enamel paint applied to the tops serves a dual purpose: It adds a jolt of color and creates a smooth, sealed surface. Furniture gliders can be attached to protect the floor.

mla103522_0608_livingroom_xl

What You'll Need

Materials

  • Electric sander
  • Tree stump
  • Sandpaper in extra-fine, fine, medium, and coarse grades
  • Wood filler
  • 2 paintbrushes, 1 for primer and 1 for paint
  • Wood primer
  • Enamel paint
  • Hammer
  • 3 to 4 furniture gliders

Instructions

  1. mla103522_0608_sanding_ht_xl

    Using the electric sander, prepare the surface of the stump. Sand, changing from coarse to medium to fine paper, until the top is smooth.

  2. If there are holes on the surface, use wood filler to conceal them. Let dry, and then rub the surface lightly by hand with fine sandpaper.

  3. With a paintbrush, apply wood primer to top surface, painting from the outside edges inward to keep primer from dripping down sides. Let dry, then sand lightly by hand with extra-fine paper.

  4. mla103522_0608_painting_ht_xl

    With other brush, apply enamel paint to top, again painting from the outside toward center. Let dry 2 to 3 days.

  5. Sand lightly by hand with fine paper. Apply another light coat of enamel. Let dry for at least 2 days.

  6. To create feet, hammer furniture gliders into base.

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