Turn scratched up children's table and chair sets into a work of art using some of the tips and ideas listed here.
If you're planning on refinishing a small table and chairs for a child consider doing something a little unusual with the set rather than simply staining or painting a solid color. Colorful paints are eye-catching for children so if you do paint it select bright colors and use a different one on each leg and another for the top. Or make the top striped and the legs polka-dotted.
Stencils are great for painting kids furniture since many child themes are available at craft stores. Stencil on balloons, clowns, animals or stars and stripes. Start by painting the table one color then stenciling the patterns onto the table top and chairs. Use smaller versions or similar patterns for the legs. Use rub-on appliques instead of stencils and you won't have to bother with painting the designs.
Children who are just learning to read love to see their names. Paint the table a solid color then decorate it by putting the children's names and other familiar words all over it in various colors of permanent marker. Or paint the table colorfully then put the name of each child on each chair.
Cut a square of cloth the size of the table top plus an additional half inch on each side. Cut one long strip of fabric that is 9" wide and as long as the perimeter of the table plus one inch. Sew the end of the strip together then sew the strip around the perimeter of the cloth square. Glue or sew on pockets to use for the children to store markers and other craft items. You can use pockets from old jeans or make your own from matching cloth. Eliminate the large square and just make a set of pockets to go around the perimeter. Glue on velcro to the sides of the table then sew velcro onto the side piece that holds the pockets. Pull off and launder when needed.
Turn the table into a game board by copying their favorite game on the table top. Use permanent markers or paint to color the game board. Spray on a protective clear sealant. Glue small bowls onto the corners if needed to hold chips or pieces.
For tables with marred tops simply glue on a dry-erase board, tape down poster board or attach a chalkboard for drawing and coloring. Other quick fixes are a large, thin, square foam piece, cork, adhesive shelf paper or a piece of formica. You can also use vinyl material or smooth vinyl floor covering.
Make tiny pads that can be tied onto the chairs. Cut two squares the size of the seat and two the size of the back. Sew and pad slightly. Add tie-on strings to attach them to the chairs.
Use decoupage glue to cover the table and all the chairs with children's pictures cut from magazines. Images of animals, swing sets, toys, dolls and other children's favorites will be a big hit. Glue the pictures down with the decoupage then use the glue once again to cover the tops of the pictures. Slightly sand the table when it's dry with steel wool.
How you decorate the table will depend largely upon how old the children are that use the table. If they're young avoid surfaces that can easily get holes or tears.
