Priya Kapoor
Painting a checkerboard on a table is a simple, quick, and inexpensive project that will infuse your space with a laid-back, old-fashioned feeling. All you need is an old table, paint, masking tape, and some basic tools. In this paragraph, we will introduce you to the process of creating a checkerboard table, from preparing the table to painting and sealing the checkerboard pattern. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced DIY enthusiast, this project is a fun and easy way to add a unique touch to your home decor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Less than $20 |
| Table | Old end table |
| Table condition | Chipped, scratched, cracked |
| Tools | Ruler, pencil, masking tape, sandpaper, paintbrush, paint |
| Paint | Chalk paint, acrylic paint, oil-based clear coat, polyurethane varnish, spray lacquer |
| Paint colour | Dark, light |
| Paint quantity | Two to four coats |
| Paint process | Tape off squares, paint, remove tape, let dry |
| Game pieces | Wooden discs |
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the table surface
To prepare the table surface for a checkerboard paint job, start by finding a suitable table. You can use an old end table, a square coffee table, or any table you have lying around. The table can be chipped, scratched, or cracked as the project will cover up these imperfections.
Next, you'll need to sand the table surface. Sanding creates a smooth base for painting and helps the paint adhere better. Use fine sandpaper and gently rough up the entire surface of the table. After sanding, wipe down the table with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
Once the table is sanded and cleaned, it's time to prime the surface. Priming helps the paint stick better and creates a more even finish. Choose a primer suitable for the type of table surface you have, such as wood or metal. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the primer, as this may vary depending on the product.
Before you start painting, it's essential to measure and mark the board area. Calculate the size of the game board squares, usually 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches, and mark the center point of the table. Use a ruler or tape measure to ensure straight lines and even spacing. You can also use tape to mark off the areas you don't want to paint, creating a grid pattern for your checkerboard design.
With the table sanded, primed, and measured, you're now ready to start painting your checkerboard design!
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Measure and mark the board area
To paint a checkerboard on a tabletop, you'll first need to measure and mark the board area. Start by calculating the size of your game board squares. A standard checkerboard is 8 squares by 8 squares, with each square measuring 1 1/2 inches by 1 1/2 inches, making the game board 12 inches. If your table measures 21 1/2 inches square, for example, the game board would be inset by 4 3/4 inches on all four sides. You can adjust the size of your squares and board depending on the dimensions of your table.
Once you've determined the size of your squares, use a ruler or measuring tape to measure out the width of the tape you'll be using to mark the squares. For instance, if your squares are 2 inches by 2 inches, use 2-inch-wide tape. Place the tape along the edges of the table, marking off the width of your desired squares. You can then use a pencil to lightly mark the centre line in the other direction, creating a grid pattern.
Alternatively, you can print out a checkerboard image online and tape the sheets together to match the size of your tabletop. Transfer the checkerboard pattern onto the table using a pencil or a sharpie, ensuring you centre the image accurately.
Another method is to use a square ruler to find the centre point of your table. Place the ruler along the first piece of tape you placed, with the perpendicular part of the ruler lined up with the centre point. This will help you mark off even lines in the opposite direction.
After measuring and marking the board area, you can proceed to the next steps of taping and painting your checkerboard design.
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Tape off the checkerboard pattern
To create a checkerboard pattern on a tabletop, you'll need to carefully measure and mark out the squares before applying the tape. Start by measuring the width of your tape and then use this measurement to calculate the size of your game board squares. For example, if your tape is 2 inches wide, you can make 2-inch squares.
Next, calculate the size of your game board. For an 8-by-8 checkerboard, you'll need a square that is 16 inches in total. If your table is 21.5 inches square, the game board will sit inset by about 4.75 inches on all four sides. Mark the center point of the table, and then use a ruler to mark out the rest of the grid, ensuring that the lines are straight and evenly spaced.
Now it's time to apply the tape. Start by taping around the edges of the entire board. Then, tape off alternating lines and squares, following the grid you marked out. Press down firmly on the tape to ensure that the lines are even and that paint won't bleed through.
With the tape in place, you're ready to start painting. Choose a paint color that contrasts with the rest of your table, and carefully brush or roll the paint over the exposed squares. Allow the paint to dry, and then carefully remove the tape. If you want sharp lines, let the table dry overnight before removing the tape.
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Paint the table
Painting a checkerboard on a table is a fun and inexpensive project that will give your table a laid-back, old-fashioned feel. You can use an old end table, side table, or coffee table for this project, and it doesn't matter if the table is chipped, scratched, or cracked.
First, you'll need to sand the table, prime it, and decide on a colour to paint it. You can mix paint to create your desired shade, as in the example of a dark bronze-grey colour, or you could make your own chalk paint by adding plaster of Paris and water to a sample pot of paint. Once you've painted your table, you'll need to measure out the top and decide on the size of your checkerboard. You can use a ruler to mark off the board area with light pencil lines, or use masking tape to create your grid.
Next, you'll need to tape off the squares. Start by taping around the edges of the table, then tape off alternating lines and squares. Make sure to press down firmly on the tape with your fingertips to ensure even lines. Now you're ready to paint! Use a paint colour that contrasts with the base colour of your table and carefully brush or roll the paint over the taped-off squares. As soon as you've finished painting, carefully remove the tape and let the table dry. If you want sharp lines, let the table dry overnight.
Once the paint is dry, you can distress the table with fine sandpaper if you want a more worn look. You can also add a border stripe around the perimeter of the checkerboard, as well as other decorative details. Finally, seal your table with a coat of varnish, lacquer, or clear furniture wax.
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Seal the table
Sealing a painted table is important to protect your work and ensure its longevity. The type of sealant you use will depend on the type of paint you've used, and how much use the table will get.
If you've used an alkyd or enamel-based paint, it's best not to add a topcoat as this can affect the adhesion and performance of the paint. These paints are designed with durability in mind, so an extra layer of sealant is unnecessary.
However, if your table will be subjected to heavy use, you may want to consider adding a layer of protection. In this case, wax is a great option for sealing painted furniture. It enhances the colour and depth of the paint and is very durable once cured. However, it can be prone to chipping before it has fully cured, so it may not be suitable for high-traffic areas. Wax is best suited for paints that do not have a top coat and work well with chalk or mineral-based paints. You can use a soft cloth or wax brush to apply the wax in circular motions.
Water-based sealants or topcoats are another option for most painted table projects. They add a layer of protection without altering the colour of the paint and are less toxic and easier to clean up than oil-based alternatives. Clear Coat and Tough Coat are two examples of water-based sealants that can be applied to almost any water-based surface. When using these products, ensure your last coat of paint is completely dry (for at least 24 hours) before proceeding. Apply the sealant with a painting sponge or brush in long, smooth strokes in one direction, as it dries quite quickly.
If you're looking for a more durable finish, consider an oil-based sealant, especially if your paint is dark-coloured. Polyurethane is a popular choice for table tops that get a lot of traffic. It can be applied with a brush and left to cure for 1-2 weeks. You can then hand-rub it with 0000 steel wool to achieve a smooth, satin finish. Keep in mind that the more matte you go, the more cloudy it may look.
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Frequently asked questions
The first step is to find an old table that you can repurpose. It doesn't matter if the table is chipped, scratched or cracked.
Next, you need to sand the table, prime it and then mix up a colour of your choice to paint it with.
You can use masking tape and a ruler to measure and mark the board area. Then, lay down the tape according to your markings and paint the exposed squares.
Once the paint is dry, you can distress the table with sandpaper to give it a vintage look. Then, seal the table with a coat of varnish or lacquer.
