how to make an old dining table look modern

The dining table is an important piece that you use for daily meals. Therefore, owning a trendy, like-new dining table will create positive energy in your life. Although it looks old and lifeless, we usually can't throw it away because it's a grandmother's relic or our budget does not allow us to replace it with a new dining table. There are many tips to solve this problem. Are you ready to try the following 10 DIY dining table makeover ideas?

Refresh With New Seating

To give your old dining table a modern highlight, you can start your plan by replacing traditional chairs with sleek upholstered benches or colorful metal ones. Easier, you can cover the old chairs with soft handmade chair backs and cushions or paint them some color.

diy dining table makeover ideas

Old dining table makeover with new soft chairs or a bench
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: 420 Akro 28”H Metal Dining Table Legs; 308 Odila 28”H Luxurious Table Base; 105 Cleo 16”H Metal Handmade Bench Legs

Refinish Tabletop With Epoxy

One of the most amazing refurbished dining table ideas is updating the top with epoxy resin because they are colorful and glossy. Pouring a clear epoxy layer on the top and waiting (72 hours) for it to dry, you can comfortably use it after a week when the epoxy layer reaches the perfect strength and durability. You can choose an optional color to create a river on your table if you want it more special. The most popular color is blue, but the recommended color for a contemporary look is the incorporation of black/white and wood color.

how to make an old dining table look modern

Transform your dining table by adding a black or white river and glossy epoxy finish
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: 418 Curva 28"H Dining Table Curved Legs; 507 Yami 28”H Modern Furniture Legs

Update a Glass Top

If your old dining table has a scratched or outdated glass top, let’s replace it with a new one. On the other hand, if you have never put a glass on your dining table, you can try now. It would make your table look more modern with a sleek look and easy to clean.

The 0.5” glass top offers excellent stability and durability.

The 0.5” glass top’s thickness is perfectly stable and durable
Credit: ©Stephan Louis on Canva

Add a New Metal Dining Table Base

A metal table base is the best part of updating traditional dining room furniture. Installing the unique metal base under can create a contrast for any tabletop and turn your old dining table makeover into an artwork. To achieve a modern overall look, choose black, gold, or brushed steel for the base.

The wooden dining tabletop paired with a metal tulip base showcases a stylish and modern design.

The wood dining tabletop with the metal tulip base is a trendy design
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: 323 Tulipe 28”H Table Base

Draw More Patterns for Your Dining Table

Sketching hand-painted patterns or stenciling on an old table is also one of the great DIY dining table makeover ideas if you have a high creative spirit. Geometric shapes, stripes, or even delicate floral designs can add a fresh, contemporary touch. This technique works well on wooden tables and can be sealed with a polyacrylic protective finish for longevity.

Vibrant patterns enhance the visual appeal of the top.

Colorful patterns make the top more attractive
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: 409 Cleo 28”H Metal Table Legs

Repaint the Dining Table Legs Colorfully

Move to a playful dining table makeover idea. You could put some vibrant colors on it. The dining table legs with black, white, or gold bring a new simple look, while hague blue or pastel green create a bright feeling for your dining room. It will focus your attention on the table but doesn’t make it ridiculous.

The gold legs of the dining table add a sleek and modern touch to your home.

The gold dining table legs bring a modern look to your home
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: 310 Hoshi 28”H Dining Table Base; 442 Cleo 28”H Gold Table Legs

Apply an Impressive Decal

A convenient solution to renew your old dining table is to use a decorative decal. You don’t need to wait for it to dry; just apply it straight on your tabletop and remove it if you love constant changes. For a visually stunning result, you can choose a wood grain decal or others, such as flowers or abstract patterns.

Wood grain decals consistently offer a sleek and modern aesthetic.

Wood grain decals are always simple and contemporary
Credit: ©Branislav on Canva

Decorate With Wallpaper

Except for decals, another way to easily decorate your old dining table makeover is using wallpaper. It’s similar to decals but has a more durable structure. This is also a perfect solution to conceal all the cracks on the old tabletop. Wallpaper also has grain wood and various pattern selections. You can pick one for your table directly at supermarkets or online on e-commerce.

Opt for a light-colored wallpaper to create a refined and elegant dining table look.

Use a light wallpaper color to turn it into a delicate dining table
Credit: ©Andranik Hakobyan on Canva

Install Unique Light Pubs

Besides the table's appearance, the surrounding pieces are an important element that makes your old dining table look modern. Add small overhead bulbs or a lamp next to it to create a focal point and enhance the light of your dining space. The recommended tone for modern space is the harmony between white and blue light, but if you want a cozy vibe, please pick the yellowish-white tone. The geometric and industrial style overhead lights are the best choice for a stylish dining room.

Upgrade to a warm-toned geometric ceiling light to elevate the look of your old dining table.

Updating warm tone geometric ceiling light to enhance the old dining table
Credit: Flowyline Design
Shop now: 418 Curva 28" Dining Table Curved Legs; 115 Yami 16”H Bench Legs

Use Wood Oil to Make the Top Look New

Use wood oil on the tables to create a gentle, sleek look. This method gives the wood a new, modern look while highlighting the grain, making it a great choice for modern dining areas.

Use wood oil to preserve and revitalize your centerpiece.

Apply wood oil to protect and refresh your centerpiece
Credit: ©Zlikovec on Canva

FAQs About DIY Dining Table Makeover Ideas

What is the average cost of refinishing a dining room table?

On average, DIY refinishing of an old dining table costs between $20 and $120, while professional refinishing services may range from $400 to $700. The plan includes dipping and stripping ($100-$400), staining ($20-$300), sanding ($150-$300), painting ($50-$100), and sealing ($80-$300).

Can I Change the Legs on My Dining Table?

The answer is yes. Changing table legs is very simple, and it will add a new look to your dining table. You can customize DIY legs by yourself or buy new legs to replace the old ones. Different leg designs bring different feelings to your dining room.

How Do You Add New Legs to a Dining Table?

To add new legs to your dining table, start by removing the existing ones. Measure and mark where the new legs will be placed, then attach them using sturdy brackets, screws, or a metal base. Ensure the new legs provide adequate support and balance for the tabletop. For the details, read the guiding process of adding legs to the dining table to get the picture.

After these ideas, you certainly understand how to make an old dining table look modern. Transforming an old table into a modern statement piece is easier than ever. Whether you're updating it with bold colors, a new base, or unique finishes, these creative tips will help you achieve a fresh, contemporary look that enhances your space. It’s our pleasure to answer any questions when you contact us directly via +1 ‪(310) 756-0002. Flowyline always provides useful tips to help you upgrade your home space.

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