Not every flip needs to take days or cost a fortune. This little antique console table was a free Facebook Marketplace find, and it turned out to be the perfect quick win. I thought I’d walk you through how I flipped it — step by step — in case you’ve got a piece sitting around or you’re just looking for an easy weekend project.
Honestly, these smaller pieces are great when you want to get creative but don’t have hours of spare time (especially if you’ve got a toddler running around like I do).
Start With a Proper Clean
Before you sand or paint, clean your piece thoroughly. It might not look dirty, but dust, oil, and old wax finishes can build up over time, especially if the furniture’s been stored in a shed or garage.
I used a cheap degreaser spray and followed it with warm soapy water. Don’t skip this step! Dirty surfaces clog up your sanding pads and stop paint from sticking properly.
Remove Hardware and Disassemble If Needed
ake off any drawer handles or knobs. If your piece has legs or details that are tricky to sand, check if it can be safely taken apart.
My console table had twist-off bolts, which made it super easy to detach the legs. This made sanding 10x easier and saved me from bending into awkward positions.
Sand Smooth
If you don’t have an electric sander — don’t worry! Hand sanding works just fine, especially for smaller projects. I used 120-grit sandpaper to cut through the old varnish, then switched to 180-grit to smooth everything out before painting.
Always wear a mask, especially if you’re working with older finishes. You don’t want to breathe in anything nasty.
Paint It (and How to Fix Thick Chalk Paint)
I used a budget chalk paint from Kmart, which was only $12! Ill leave a link to the paint in the materials section. It didn’t require primer because I had already scuff-sanded the surface — one of the perks of using chalk paint.
If your paint feels too thick or starts drying too fast:
- Add a tiny bit of water and stir to thin it slightly
- Use a small roller to speed things up and get a smoother coat
- Lightly sand between coats to even out brush marks
Lightly Distress for a Vintage Look
This part is totally optional, but it’s great for vintage-style pieces. I lightly sanded the edges and corners using fine-grit paper. This lets some of the original wood peek through and gives it a softer, aged look — perfect for that relaxed, coastal feel.
Add New Hardware
Even if you’re only replacing one knob or handle, the hardware makes a big difference. I used a simple vintage-style drawer pull to complement the shape of the table. It instantly made the whole piece feel more intentional and finished.
With just a little prep, paint, and patience, this tired old console table turned into something totally fresh and full of charm. It’s now the perfect accent piece — and the entire makeover cost under $25.
Whether you’re just getting started or need a quick weekend win, flipping small furniture is a great way to build your confidence and refresh your space without breaking the bank.
Materials
- Console Table – Free
- Degreaser Spray (Any spray and wipe should do) – Already had
- Sandpaper (120 + 180 grit) – Already had
- Kmart Decor and Furniture Chalk Paint – Sage – $12.00
- New Drawer Pull – Already Had
Total: ~A$12.00
Gallery
