Have you ever inherited an old dining room set or found one at a thrift store that you just couldn’t pass up? While these pieces may have sentimental value or a unique charm, they may not fit in with your current decor. Luckily, there are several ways to update an old dining room set to make it look fresh and modern.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Clean and Sand
The first step in updating an old dining room set is to clean and sand it. Remove any dirt or grime with a mild soap and water solution, and then sand the entire piece to remove any old finish or rough spots.
2. Paint or Stain
Next, you can choose to paint or stain the dining room set. Painting is a great option for a more modern look, while staining can bring out the natural beauty of the wood. Be sure to use a high-quality primer and paint or stain to ensure a long-lasting finish.
3. Replace Hardware
Replacing the hardware on your dining room set can also make a big difference. Choose modern or vintage-inspired knobs and pulls to give the piece a new look.
4. Add Upholstery
Another way to update an old dining room set is to add upholstery to the chairs. You can choose a bold pattern or color to make a statement or opt for a neutral fabric for a classic look.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
- Consider painting the dining room set a bold color for a modern look.
- Add a patterned or textured table runner to make the piece stand out.
- Replace the table legs with tapered or hairpin legs for a mid-century modern vibe.
- Choose a distressed finish for a rustic or farmhouse look.
- Swap out the chairs for ones with a more modern design.
- Use chalk paint for a shabby chic or vintage-inspired look.
- Paint the legs of the table and chairs a different color than the top for a unique touch.
- Add a statement light fixture above the table to draw attention to the piece.
- Choose a bold wallpaper or paint color for the dining room walls to complement the updated set.
- Use a high-gloss paint for a sleek and modern finish.
Pros and Cons
One of the biggest pros of updating an old dining room set is that it can save you money compared to buying a brand new set. It can also give you a sense of satisfaction and pride in transforming an old piece into something new and beautiful. However, there are some cons to consider, such as the time and effort required to complete the update and the possibility of the finished product not turning out as expected.
My Personal Review
I recently inherited an old dining room set from my grandmother, and while it held sentimental value, it didn’t quite fit in with my modern decor. I decided to paint the set a deep navy blue and add new hardware to give it a sleek and updated look. I also reupholstered the chairs with a bold patterned fabric. The finished product exceeded my expectations, and I now have a beautiful and unique dining room set that holds both sentimental and decorative value.
Question & Answer
Q: Can I use spray paint to update an old dining room set?
A: Yes, you can use spray paint to update a dining room set. Be sure to use a high-quality primer and paint for the best results.
FAQs
Q: How much does it cost to update an old dining room set?
A: The cost of updating an old dining room set can vary depending on the materials and techniques used. Painting or staining can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, while reupholstering the chairs can cost around $100 per chair.
Q: How long does it take to update an old dining room set?
A: The time it takes to update an old dining room set can depend on the size of the piece and the techniques used. Painting or staining can take a few days to complete, while reupholstering the chairs can take a week or more.