How to Make a Small Living Room Look Modern

Give a small living room the illusion of more space by reducing clutter and keeping furniture and decor at a minimum. By taking a minimalist approach to decorating, the room will also take on a modern look. Since you don't have much room space to work with, choose your furniture and decor pieces with precision. Look for items that can work double duty and seek out ways to optimize storage space. Stick with a sophisticated color palette for a sleek style. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Paint the living room walls a light, fresh color, such as white or misty grey, which will complement a modern decor scheme and make the small space appear more open.

2

Choose a white or black sofa featuring a contemporary design and a sleek aluminum frame. Place a coffee table with a glass top and silver legs in front of the couch, and a small, coordinating table to the side of it.

3

Decorate with clear, acrylic furniture, which will take up less visual space and give the room a modern touch. Display decorative, hardcover books on a clear acrylic bookcase. Place a potted plant on an acrylic plant stand. Set a tall lamp featuring an acrylic base and a black or white shade next to a reading chair.

4

Hang a large mirror over the couch to make the room appear larger. Choose a silver- or black metal-framed mirror as a modern touch. Use a grouping of small, oval or round mirrors as an alternative option.

5

Add pops of bright, primary color to the living room to add visual appeal. Place a vibrant yellow decorative pillow in each couch corner, and fold a matching blanket over the back. Fill a large, square glass vase with sunny yellow tulips and display it in the middle of the coffee table.

How to Display Table Numbers

Brides and grooms sympathetically assign table numbers, not to wield power and control, but to rescue guests from uncomfortable situations. Sitting alone at a wedding where everyone else knows each other or being caught in the crossfire of feuding relatives makes for an awkward evening. Be a courteous guest and hunt for your table number, not a familiar face to seat yourself next to. A considerate decorating committee should make table numbers easily visible. Tented stands prop up creative photos of building numbers or photos of the bride and groom holding up table numbers. Photo frame and easels double as party favors.

Instructions

1

Purchase an 11-by-17 piece of mat board or heavy card stock.

2




Measure your photo.

Measure the image you intend to use for the table number. Choose a number collage, photo or other flat or printed media.

3

Make a pencil mark on the 11 inch or shorter end of the mat board corresponding to the width of your image. For example, if your image is 6 inches tall by 4 inches wide, make a mark approximately 4 inches from the edge of the mat or card stock to accommodate the image and a border. Adjust dimensions according to how much space you desire around the image. Cut along the pencil mark. Use a ruler as a straight edge.

4

Score and fold the board with a mat knife. Make a score mark so that the board easily folds in half. When folded, the board will make two 8-inch-long sides.

5

Glue the image to one side of the board. Align the top of the image close to the fold.

6

Make a second score mark directly underneath the image. If the image is 6 inches tall, measure approximately 2 inches below the image. Repeat on the back side. Fold both pieces in. Adhere the two flaps together with glue or tape.

Photo Frames

7




Use a picture frame to hold a table number.

Purchase a matching silver photo frame for each table. Alternatively, collect coordinating frames form antique stores or the bride or groom's own collection. Simple images in a 5-by-7 frame catch the eye. Guests might miss frames smaller than 4-by-6. Large frames obstruct the view.

8

Print your design on card stock. Alternatively, use a pre-cut image, such as a photo.

9

Cut the card stock with scissors or a paper cutter to fit the frame's opening.

10

Slide the card stock or photo into the frame. Place the frame on the table as a part of the centerpiece, or on the side facing the side where guests enter.

Easel

11

Purchase an easel from a craft supply store.

12

Glue the table number image onto heavy card stock for reinforcement.

13

Set the number card onto the easel.

How to Display Table Data on a BlackBerry

BlackBerry smartphones are capable of displaying table data, but you must use an app to display the data correctly. As of the date of publication, BlackBerry App World offers the EFRAC Spreadsheet, Documents To Go and CSV Table Pro apps that enable you to create and view table data in spreadsheets. The EFRAC Spreadsheet app sells for about $8, Documents To Go is $15 and the CSV Table Pro app costs $3.

Instructions

1

Press the "Menu" button on your phone.

2

Click on the "BlackBerry App World" icon.

3

Select your category by clicking on the "Business" link, then click on the "Business Tools" link.

4

Click on the link for one of the programs that displays table data, like EFRAC Spreadsheet, Documents To Go or CSV Table Pro.

5

Click on the "Download" button.

6

Wait for the app to download and install.

7

Access your new app by pressing the BlackBerry "Menu" button and selecting the app's icon.

8

Open your file within the program you installed to view table data.

How to Make a Display Booth for Jewelry

Jewelry can jazz up any plain or basic outfit, and it's always a way to attract attention no matter what style it accompanies. Likewise, when selling jewelry, you'll want your glittery and shiny pieces to stand out in your display booth prominently to attract buyers. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

The focus of your booth will be the table. Find a well-lit area for the display table or have lights set up to shine on finished display.

2




Arrange jewelry into similar styles or looks; keep ensembles together.

3

Put 6-8 pieces in each of your jewelry display boxes. Each box should have its own theme, like a gold box, a silver box or a beaded jewelry box.

4

Cover the table with the cloth. Make sure the cloth is clean and looks good.

5

Arrange filled jewelry boxes around the table so they are closer to the edge than the center.

6




Put an empty box under the fabric in the center of the table. The size of the box will depend on the open space left in the middle of the table by the jewelry boxes.

7

On the raised center, made by the box under the fabric, place some taller necklace displays with your most unique or best selling ensembles. You can even use these displays for new jewelry or expensive pieces you want customers to buy because their eyes will be attracted to the height.

8

Add more height and interest to your table by placing some small empty boxes under the jewelry display boxes so they tilt down toward the edge of the table.

9

Use smaller bracelet and earring displays to fill in the space between the boxes. This will add dimension to these plain areas. Or you can put the empty shampoo bottle under an empty section, which will provide a nice elevated shape to drape a few bracelets across.

10

Add small decorations to your table to add pizazz and if needed, to fill in empty space. Use glittery Christmas decorations for the holiday season or place dazzling picture frames with your specials typed inside.

How to Make a Table Top Display Board

A very durable tabletop display board can be made with just a few items. Cover the display boards in any suitable fabric. They can be used for jewelry and other small items for sale or for information. They are very popular for use at expos, fairs and festivals. Home improvement show vendors use them to display brochures and sales materials. They can be folded and put away for the next event.

Instructions

1

Apply wide strips of glue on the front face of the foam core board about 2 inches apart. Spread it evenly, making sure the glue goes all the way to the edges of the board.

2

Lay the 12 inch by 18 inch piece of fabric on the board. Smooth it down so it is even and matches perfectly along all the edges. For more durability, use lightweight indoor/outdoor carpet instead of fabric. If the display is being made for jewelry, you may want to use a velvet-type fabric. Add more glue if there are any spots on the edges that don't adhere.

3

Glue the fabric for the second board following the same procedure. Let both boards dry overnight.

4

Attach one half of a Velcro set to the outer edge of one board on the right-hand side. It should be at least 2 inches from the top. Apply the other side of the Velcro set to the left outer edge side of the other board.

5

Attach the second set of Velcro squares in the same manner. These pieces should be 2 or 3 inches from the bottom.

6

Stand the boards up in a side-by-side V formation on the table. Match the Velcro squares on the outer edges and press them together. The boards will stand alone on the table.

How to Make a Glass Table

Making your own glass table is a worthwhile project that can be done by using readily available materials. You can finish this project in one weekend. There are inexpensive materials you can use in order to assemble a beautiful piece of furniture such as a glass table. By creating your own glass table using a planter or pot as a base, you'll end up with a piece that is both practical and beautiful. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Think of what type of table you want to build. It can be a dining table, a sofa table, side table or a coffee table. For this project we shall make a coffee table for a living room.

2




Go to a nursery or garden center near you. Look for a pot that is about 15 to 18 inches high and around 30 to 35 inches wide. There are a lot of choices to choose, but pick the one that has a wide body and wide opening. It can be made of clay, stone, ceramics, concrete or resin. If you choose a pot made of resin, you can add river rocks or gravel inside to keep it heavy so the finished table would not wobble. It can give a sort of Zen-like look when people see through the glass top.

3

Buy a round beveled tempered glass approximately 12 mm thick and around 48 to 40 inches in diameter. You can buy your glass from a glass company or you can go to salvage yards to look for old glass tops you can reuse. If you can also go to the glass cutters and then give them your specifications, they can cut the glass for you. You can choose a clear or smoked glass, or a tinted glass in any tint color of your choice. Then choose either a single-beveled or double-beveled glass for your glass top.

4

Practice safety when handling glass to avoid breakage and injury. Wear work gloves and safety goggles if you will attempt to cut the glass yourself using a glass cutter. Wrap the glass with pads and styrofoam for protection and secure it so it doesn't fall and break when transporting from the shop to your home.

5

Place the pot of your choice at the center of your living room sitting area. You may want to place it close to your sofa table, chairs and love seat groupings.

6

Put the round beveled tempered glass on top and adjust the positioning. To prevent from toppling, put silicone clear adhesive. By adding at least four or six round beads of silicone clear adhesive spread evenly around the top rim of the pot's mouth, then placing the glass on top carefully at the center you will be able to secure it in place. Let the silicone set before attempting to use the coffee table. Place a heavy item on top of the glass to help set the adhesive quicker

How to Distress and Paint a Table

Instead of striving for a perfect coat of paint on a wood table, a distressed coat of paint can create an antique appearance. Regardless of the age of a table, with a few layers of paint in contrasting colors, you can make wood furniture look old and valuable. Distress and paint a table using paint colors that fit the other decor in your room to make the table will look like a well-loved piece of furniture. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Sand the table with 220-grit sandpaper to prepare the wood for paint. After sanding every horizontal and vertical surface of the tabletop and legs, wipe the surfaces thoroughly with a tack cloth to remove sawdust.

2

Apply flat paint with a 2-inch flat paintbrush to the table in an even layer. Continue painting until you coat every surface thoroughly. Allow the base coat to dry for about 24 hours.

3

Dip a clean cloth into paste wax and apply the wax to the table in random areas. This helps create a distressed and worn look on the wood. The places where you apply the wax will resist the acrylic glaze, allowing the base coat to show through the glaze. Make random swipes with the wax in a variety of shapes and sizes along the edges of the table, over the horizontal tabletop surface and on the legs. Allow the wax to set about 1 hour before you proceed.

4

Apply tinted acrylic glaze over the table surface with the paintbrush. Coat all surfaces of the table with an even layer of paint. The areas where you applied wax will not hold the glaze and the base coat will show through. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly for about 24 hours.

5

Make several nicks and gouges in the table with a flat screwdriver to simulate distress and age. Strive for a random effect as you gouge the wood with the screwdriver.

6

Sand the table with 300-grit sandpaper to create a worn appearance. Concentrate sanding along the edges, on the horizontal tabletop and on the legs. Stop sanding when the base coat shows through the glaze. Wipe down the table with the tack cloth after you finish sanding.

How to Use Colored Acrylic Shapes for Wall Art

Just about anything can be made into wall art with some creativity and, sometimes, minimal work. Colored acrylic shapes are great for making interesting and beautiful graphic wall art. Building a non-permanent piece also allows you to change the look of your art whenever it suits you. Sticking to something simple will also give the easiest and best results; the less alteration of the actual acrylic pieces the better. Choose a color and pattern scheme that best represents your style and room decor.

Instructions

1

Plan and map out your idea for your wall art. Decide upon the size of the final piece, whether by the constraints of a frame or proportions with a wall. Decide whether you will use a matte and frame, or create a free-hanging piece. A repetitive pattern that does not require any cutting provides a simple and stylish option.

2

Arrange your shapes into the desired image or pattern. If any of them need to be cut, measure them and then place them on a cutting board.

3

Use a good blade if your pieces need to be cut. Stick to straight lines, and make the cuts using light, repetitive motions. Don't try to make a full cut on the first slice.

4

Adhere your shapes to the matte board with glue. Use the glue in limited amounts around the entire piece and as close to the edge as possible. Or, for a free-hanging piece, glue the pieces to each other. If the pieces are too thin to glue to each other, adhere tiny clear plastic braces behind the pieces connecting each to the surrounding pieces.

5

Let your piece dry completely before moving or hanging it.

Buffet Table Food Display Ideas

If you're going to be serving food in the "buffet-style" then your food display and layout is one of the most important things to keep guests moving in the buffet line in a steady and streamlined manner. If you take a logical approach and have the right set-up, then the buffet serving style works as it is intended to work--cutting out the middle-man between the diner and the food itself. Does this Spark an idea?

First Course to Last

For a smaller buffet at a smaller party or event, it is always good to display food from the first course to the last course, in that order. In other words start with the salad or an appetizer, then move on to entrees, following with the side dishes and then finish with the dessert. You can also place dessert on a separate table (so guests aren't having to mix their dessert with their appetizer). For larger buffets at larger parties and events, break up the courses with separate buffets--appetizers and salads in one buffet line, entrees in another, desserts at yet another. This way guests can eat, have their plates cleared and decide what they want for their next course instead of having to try and cut back into the one line serving everything, which causes confusion and disorder.

Easy Service

It is important to have numerous ways for guests to serve themselves for each dish. In other words, a number of tongs in the big bowl of Caesar salad, so that many people can serve themselves at one time. For dishes that are supposed to be kept warm, the food should be kept in a covered serving tray, warmed by a Sterno jar and someone from the catering crew should be there to serve them, so diners are not holding the top of the serving tin and trying to serve themselves at the same time. One person serving everyone also guarantees more equal portions and fewer people touching the food.

Small Plates

Another idea that has been put into practice at many events has been multiple buffet tables that serve small plates of a variety of foods. This way the lines move quickly and people can easily sample a lot of food and come back for seconds or thirds of foods they really like and want to make a meal out of. This is effective for breaking up a party and keeping everything from grinding to a halt as everyone waits in one long line for dinner, hungry and annoyed.

How to Make a Dickens Village Display

A Dickens village display is a model village based on Victorian England, normally set up on a table or series of tables. Because the Dickens model buildings are often snow-covered, Dickens villages are normally a part of, or mixed in with, larger Christmas villages. For beginners, it is probably better to start with a small display, like on one half of a table, and then add buildings and detail slowly over time. Be careful though; before you know it, the room where you keep your Dickens village will soon be taken over as you continue to add pieces and detail.

Instructions

1

Draw out how you want the village to look on a piece of paper. This doesn't have to be pretty or exact, just give yourself an overall template that you can look back on later. Include all the major elements of the village on the design and try to keep it to scale as much as possible, so you can find out early if what you want isn't going to fit on the display.

2

Set up one or more tables where you want to have the Dickens village display. Because many village displays have elevation changes, the tables don't have to all be the same height, although you will have more design options if they are. Position the tables in a corner or area of your house where they can be viewed easily and you have access to several electrical outlets. Cut Styrofoam sheets to fit on top of the tables and place them there.

3

Place Styrofoam blocks on the rear portion of the tables to add some elevation to the display. You can cut the blocks to a desired shape, if you like, but place a sheet of Styrofoam on top of the blocks to give a stable surface to any buildings you may want to put there. If you don't want to use blocks, you can add elevation with books, bricks or even pieces of wood.

4

Put one huge sheet of white felt, or a snow blanket if you want a more puffed-up look, over the entire table. Use white pushpins to hold the cloth in place around your elevation, so that you can shape the cloth to look more natural. The cloth should go all the way to the floor in front of the table, as this will give you room to store all the boxes and electrical cords out of sight. If your sheet is slipping, feel free to use masking tape on the back side to keep it in one place.

5

Add the houses, figurines, roads, light fixtures and vegetation to your display. If you are skilled with crafts, you can make some of these yourself, but it will have a more cohesive look if you purchase the pieces from a village manufacturer. You can also add a model railroad running through the town, if you desire.

6

Cut slits in the felt behind the electric pieces and run the power cables under the felt and down the back of the table. You can run the cables on top of the felt if you don't want to cut it, but it will be difficult to hide black cords on a white background. Plug the cords into a surge protector and then plug that into the outlet.

How to Update a Coffee Table

Coffee tables endure a great deal of punishment, being one of the most used pieces of furniture in the home. They often get scratched and marked, which can spoil the look of a living area. Consider updating your coffee table with a makeover, rather than replacing it. These solutions also work well for a sturdy junk store bargain. With a little imagination, a small amount of effort and some basic supplies, you can transform your coffee table from shabby to chic. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Preparation and a Simple Painted Finish

1

Remove the existing finish. Put down plenty of newspaper to protect the floor, wear a protective mask and use medium and fine grade sandpaper to gently sand off varnish or paint. If the table is heavily painted, it may be more efficient to use a chemical paint remover. Wipe down the table with a clean cloth dampened with mineral spirits.

2

Apply a coat of primer then paint with your choice of hard-wearing oil-based topcoat. Allow to dry.

3

Seal and protect with two applications of polyurethane varnish if you do not want to add any further decoration. Sand lightly between each coat of varnish.

Decoupage

4

Prepare the table as detailed in Preparation, Steps 1 and 2. Select suitable images for the tabletop; laser-copied is best. You could choose to display a montage of family photos. Or create a witty trompe l'oeil with photocopied playing cards laid out as if there were a game in progress.

5

Arrange the images on the table top. Move them around until you are happy with the display. Adhere images with PVA or craft glue. Let them dry completely.

6

Seal with a minimum of two applications of polyurethane varnish. Sand with fine grade sandpaper between coats.

Chinese-style

7

Liven up the coffee table with a Chinese-style finish. Traditional colors are black, red and gold. The finish needs to be perfect to give a lacquered look, so pay attention to the initial preparation.

8

Paint the table with a deep red, oil-based top coat. Allow to dry. Sand lightly and wipe with a damp cloth. Apply a second coat of red paint.

9

Reproduce a favorite quotation using Chinese characters. Chinese is written from top to bottom; plan your design on paper first. Outline the characters on the prepared surface in pencil. Use an artist's brush and black acrylic paint to form the letters.

10

Apply several coats of high-gloss varnish, sanding between coats with very fine sandpaper. When you have achieved a deep glossy finish allow the table to stand for several days before using.

Shabby Chic

11

Ignore the preparation stage and simply incorporate the old finish. Sand the table with rough grade sandpaper. Make "woodworm" holes with an awl and deep scratches with a screwdriver. Remove dust with a damp cloth.

12

Apply a coat of light colored latex paint. Once the paint is dry, rub the top, edges and legs of the table sparingly with an old white candle. Apply a second coat of latex paint in a different color. When dry, use medium grade sandpaper to gently sand off patches of paint to reveal the first color and even some of the original finish.

13

Rub with the candle again. Apply a third color and sand back to reveal the colors beneath. Rub a little gold wax on table edges and any other areas where natural wear would occur. Protect with flat or semi-gloss varnish.

How to Build a Display Table

Display tables are among the many different aspects of showing products at a supermarket, mall or displaying trophies in a game room at home. No matter how you slice it up, having one that fits your needs is a must. The best way to do this is to build your own. For this project, minimal woodworking skills are required. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

The Skirts

1

Set the electric miter saw on a 45-degree angle. Cut this angle on the ends of all 12 of the 10-inch skirt pieces.

2

Place the 4 pieces of 10-by-24-by- inch plywood flat on a table face down. Place 1 of the 2 pieces of 1-by-2-by-22 inch lumber on its edge and drill 3 countersink holes with 1 in the center. Apply glue to the edge opposite the countersink hole side and secure it to 1 of the 24-inch pieces along one edge. Be certain that it does not extend beyond the beginning of the miter on both ends. Repeat this for 1 more of the 24-inch pieces.

3

Drill pilot holes from the face side of 2 of the 24-inch pieces through the miter. Apply glue to the inside of the miters and secure the pieces without the 1-by-2 to the ones with the 1-by-2 with the 4d finish nails. This will create a box that is 24-inches square and will have 2 of the 1-by-2 inch pieces of lumber inside the box. Next, place the 2 pieces of 1-by-2-by-19 inch lumber on the table. Drill 3 countersink holes as you did before and secure them to the inside of the 24-inch box.

4

Place the 4 pieces of 10-by-14-by- inch plywood flat on a table face down. Place 1 of the 2 pieces of 1-by-2-by-12 inch lumber on its edge and drill 3 countersink holes with one in the center. Apply glue to the edge opposite the countersink hole side and secure it to 1 of the 14-inch pieces along one edge. Be certain that it does not extend beyond the beginning of the miter on both ends. Repeat this for one more of the 14-inch pieces.

5

Drill pilot holes from the face side of 2 of the 14-inch pieces through the miter. Apply glue to the inside of the miters and secure the pieces without the 1-by-2 to the ones with the 1-by-2 with the 4d finish nails. This will create a box that is 14-inches square and will have 2 of the 1-by-2-inch pieces of lumber inside the box. Place the 2 pieces of 1-by-2-by-9 inch lumber on the table. Drill 3 countersink holes as you did before and secure them to the inside of the 14-inch box.

6

Place the 4 pieces of 10-by-4-by- inch plywood flat on a table face down. Place one of the 2 pieces of 1-by--by-2 inch lumber on its edge and drill 2 countersink holes. Apply glue to the edge opposite the countersink hole side and secure it to one of the 4-inch pieces along one edge. Be certain that it does not extend beyond the beginning of the miter on both ends. Repeat this for one more of the 4-inch pieces.

7

Drill pilot holes from the face side of 2 of the 4-inch pieces through the miter. Apply glue to the inside of the miters and secure the pieces without the 1-by--inch pieces to the ones with the 1-by--inch pieces with the 4d finish nails. This will create a box that is 4 inches square and will have 2 pieces of 1-by--by-2 inch lumber inside the box.

Table Assembly

8

Place the piece of 34-by-34-by--inch plywood on the table. Measure in 5 inches from all four edges and make several marks. Place the framing square on the marks and draw a line around the perimeter of the top. Place the other two tops on the table and repeat this process.

9

Place the 24-inch box from the previous section on these lines and drill countersink holes through the 1-by-2 lumber around the inside perimeter of the box. Remove the 24-inch box from the table, apply some glue to the inside of the lines, place the box on those lines and secure it with the drywall screws. Repeat this process for the other two tops.

10

Place the 34-inch top on its 10-inch skirt. Measure in 10 inches from all four sides and make several marks. Place the framing square on these marks and draw a square in the center of the 34-inch top. This box should measure 14 inches square. Drill pilot holes through the top 3/8 inch inside the line. Turn the top over and drill countersink holes where the pilot holes come through the bottom side.

11

Place the 24-inch top upside down on the table. Apply some glue to the bottom edges of its 14-inch square skirt. Align the 34-inch top with the 14-inch square skirt and secure them together with the drywall screws. Turn the display table upright, measure in 10 inches from each of the four edges of the 24-inch top as you did in Step 3 for the 34-inch top. Drill pilot holes 3/8 inch inside these lines, then turn the table over and drill countersink holes from the back side of the pilot holes.

12

Place a quilt or blanket on the ground. Set the 10-inch top upside down on the blanket and apply some glue along the edges of the skirt. Place the assembly from Step 4 on the 10-inch top and secure them together with the drywall screws. Turn the display table upright and sand it in preparation of its finish.

How to Make a Window Coffee Table

One of the most popular design styles right now is shabby chic. It is comfortable, looks worn and uses many elements that started life as something else. Make this clever coffee table from an old window. It is quick, easy and beautiful, and you need minimal wood working skills. Any size window will work for a window coffee table; you just need to find the one that is right for your space. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Prepare the window by sanding the window frame. Eliminate rough spots, and remove hardware if it is not desired. Wipe the window frame down using the tack cloth to remove all the dust particles.

2

Paint the window. The options here are plentiful. Completely repaint the window frame, use matching paint to dry-brush a rustic finish, or use matching paint to touch up nicks and bare spots where hardware was removed. Apply Vaseline to the inside of the window panes where they meet the wood frame. This will help keep the clean up to a minimum if you get paint on the glass.

3

Clean the paint from the window by simply washing it. If paint has gotten on the window panes and will not wash off, just scrape it lightly with a razor blade.

4

Turn the window over so that it is face down on your work surface. Attach the mounting brackets to the four corners. Use the drill to drill pilot holes before attaching the brackets with screws to prevent the wood from splitting. It is very important to have a window with a wide enough sash so as not to see the mounting brackets from the top of the window coffee table.

5

Sand the coffee table legs to better accept the paint. Wipe the dust particles off using the tack cloth.

6

Paint the legs using the technique that was chosen for the window. Allow to dry.

7

Screw the legs into the mounting brackets and turn the window coffee table over.

How to Make a Resin Topped Table

Decorative tables look wonderful in living and dining rooms, but they are not always practical. Having a table you do not want to use for fear of ruining it can defeat the original purpose of the table. Adding a resin top to a decorative table will protect the table from water or other stains, while still allowing the beauty to shine through. The clear, almost plastic-like resin will stand up to just about anything, as long as it is applied correctly. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure the table to determine how much resin you will need. One gallon of resin will cover just over six feet with a 1/4-inch thick layer of resin. Measure the area you want to cover and divide it by six. This is the number of gallons you will need. Always round up if you do not arrive at an even number.

2

Cover the edges of the table with the plastic edging and secure it with duct tape. The plastic edging should come up higher than the resin.

3

Test the plastic edging by pouring water onto the table. If the water leaks out anywhere, repair the area with duct tape and more edging, if needed. Repeat the water test until there are no leaks.

4

Cover the inside of the edging with petroleum jelly or another greasy material. This will allow you to pull off the edging once the resin is dry without harming the actual resin surface.

5

Mix the resin according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6

Pour the resin mixture onto the table area. Place a fan near the table. Turn it on so it blows over the table, keeping the temperature constant and cool. Hot spots can cause the resin to crack.

7

Remove the plastic edging after one week. While the resin is drying, make sure nothing touches the area, as that could cause dents.

8

Sand the edges of the resin to create a smooth finish. The top should not need any sanding.

9

Apply a top coat if the table will be in direct sunlight. Sun can cause resin to yellow, but a top coat, which can be purchased when you buy the resin, will protect the new tabletop.

How to Design a Tabletop Display

Visual diversity and mixed items and textures are the key organizing principles to a winning tabletop display or vignette. Tabletop displays can be either functional or decorative with the goal often being to incorporate both. For a great display, use varying height and dimension, texture, matte and shiny finishes, color, mix of items, something living, transparent and solid densities, and variant shapes. A mixture of these complementary and contrasting elements will ensure a successful tabletop display. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Choose tables seen from the front and sides only, such as entryway tables, side tables, consoles and bedside tables. Establish a maximum height line with your tallest object, be it a lamp, sculpture or flower vase display. Place this item in the back half of your tabletop. Layer in the next tallest and largest volume objects. Fill in with smaller objects, being sure to leave some table top space empty for functional use and a sense of space.

2

Arrange table displays viewed from all directions such as a buffet table, coffee table or dining table in the round. Anchor the look by placing your tallest and heaviest objects roughly centered along the length of the table and generally tapering down in scale as you move toward the ends. Alternatively set the tabletop with multiple high points in an odd number grouping of three or five depending upon the size of the table top. Layer in small decorative objects and functional items, again being sure to leave some open space to give a sense of lightness to the composition.

3

Employ these concepts in dining tablescapes by layering glassware in varying heights, color and textures with table linens with texture or trim detail. Use flatware and china that complement but do not necessarily match to give your tabletop liveliness.

4

Place a living green plant or orchid in a decorative container, fresh-cut flowers in a vase, or a single bloom in a bud vase that complements the decor setting to add life and freshness to the tablescape. Faux silk or fabric flowers are not an appropriate substitute. Simple fresh greens cut from a backyard bush are a no-cost answer to this requirement.

Ideas for Displaying Food on a Table for a Wedding

A wedding reception features a variety of foods. It can include fruit, vegetables, cheese and crackers, hot appetizers, the main entrees, and dessert. Food can look overwhelming just plopped down on a table and can become unorganized when the guests are getting their food. You will want to arrange the food in an eye-pleasing and organized fashion that gives off elegance and taste.

Appetizers

Appetizers featuring fruits, vegetables, cheese and crackers should be arranged beautifully on a table. Use silver platters and arrange them in an interesting manner. You can cut the fruits and vegetables into different shapes and arrange them along with flowers or greenery for an enhanced look. Keep the fruit and vegetable trays separate. The cheeses can be arranged in a circular shape with the variety of different cheeses spread out on the silver platter. Have the crackers in the middle of the cheeses. Spread these out on an obvious table at the reception so guests can enjoy these healthy and light snacks before the reception begins.

Hot Appetizers

Hot appetizers or finger foods are becoming a staple at wedding receptions. They contrast deliciously with the light fruits, vegetables and cheeses. Some of these hot appetizers or finger foods include mini cheeseburgers, Swedish meatballs, spring rolls, stuffed mushrooms, and bacon-wrapped scallops. These delicious delights look attractive placed on raised silver platters. By using risers underneath the tablecloth, the platters of hot appetizers are placed at a prominent vantage point.

Entrees

The classiest way to display entrees is through different stations. Depending on what you are serving at the reception, the specific stations can prominently display the food and how you specifically want it served. There can be a meat carving station, a chicken station, seafood station, or pasta station. A station of side dishes ranging from potatoes to salad can also be used. Decorate these stations by using the colors and themes of the wedding through bows, ribbons or centerpieces. This also keeps the reception organized as people can go to the stations they specifically desire instead of waiting in line.

Dessert

The cake is an important part of the reception, but so are the other desserts. Having a specific dessert table separate from the cake is delightful for guests of all ages. This is where cookies, pies and other sweet treats can be displayed. Decorate the dessert table by displaying bowls and jars of candy, which the kids will love. Guests can take home cookies, candy and more by having plates and favor bags in the colors of the wedding available on the table. This table should be colorful and decorative with bows, ribbons and a centerpiece.

How to Paint an Oak Table

Painting a table is a good way to give an old table a face lift or make a table match your decor. Most tables are relatively easy to paint, but oak tables need an extra step because they have such a coarse grain. You need to use a grain filler to smooth the grain of the wood so the paint goes on smoothly. Once you have finished the job, the table will look like new. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Wash the table with your usual cleaner, rinse it, and dry it thoroughly.

2

Rub the entire table with medium-coarse steel wool.

3

Sand the table with medium-fine sandpaper.

4

Wipe all the dust off the table.

5

Apply a transparent paste filler to the table according to the manufacturer's directions. Use a paint brush to apply it, and then rub it into the wood by working against the grain and then going back and working with the grain. Allow it to dry for 48 hours.

6

Apply a coat of primer to the table using a bristle paintbrush. Allow it to dry 24 hours.

7

Paint the table with the paint of your choice and a bristle brush. Allow it to dry 24 hours and then apply a second coat. Brush the paint with very fine sandpaper after each coat.

8

Apply enamel in the same color as the underlying paint. Use a bristle brush and work with the grain, against the grain and with the grain. Allow it to dry 48 hours and repeat.

How to Display Jewelry on a Table

A successful jewelry display fulfills at least two objectives: It attracts the consumer's attention, and it induces her to buy. A display that is not well thought out can prove injurious to sales numbers. Even a well-designed collection at an affordable price point can sell poorly due to an ill-designed display. An attractive display should allow the gaze to flow comfortably across or around the table. Grouping together pieces of similar style, color and material is one place to start. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Cover the table with a tablecloth. Use a solid tablecloth in a color that will not interfere with the customer's ability to view the jewelry. Black, white, gray and beige are some appropriate choices. To heighten the sense of luxury, choose a fabric such as velvet or satin.

2

Create groupings according to style and/or color. For example, a collection of color-rich glass jewelry may be better shown by displaying red pieces in one section of the table and blue or green pieces in another. It is common practice to group gold and silver jewelry separately. Also consider gathering pieces according to material, such as lucite, pearl or gemstone. This principle applies even to subgroupings on earrings or bracelets. Putting visually similar pieces together can help consumers find what they need and may help salespeople to more easily locate jewelry while attending to a customer.

3

Mount especially attractive pieces or sets on busts or stands, and elevate them. For example, position a ruby-red glass jewelry necklace on a bust, and use a box or riser to attract the consumer's attention. Display complementary designs, such as bracelets or earrings, alongside the highlighted piece.

4

Provide visual transition from one grouping to the next. For example, allow the eye to travel comfortably from a silver to a gold grouping by positioning pieces that include both metals between the two groupings.

5

Add lighting to the display design. Whether you mount spotlights on adjacent walls or the ceiling or use lamps on the table itself, adequate light can enhance the appeal of jewelry. Test your light or lamp placement before the sales event by approaching the table from different angles as you observe the display.

Ideas to Make a Coffee Table Base

It is possible to make a coffee table base from just about any object, provided it will allow the table top to sit flat across it. When using interesting and unusual materials to make a coffee table base, it is best to use a clear glass or perspex top for your table to show off the base you have created.

Rubber Tires

Car lovers can create a themed coffee table base using old car tires. This type of base will work well with a round glass top. Simply pile sufficient tires on top of one another till you reach the desired height. Secure together using liquid latex. The texture of the rubber will prevent the glass from slipping, so all you need to do is place the glass on top of the final tire.

Old Books

Pile up old books to create a literary-themed coffee table. Do not lay them directly on top of each other, but set them at angles, so corners stick out. Keep the most interesting or decorative book for the top. You will need one or two piles depending on the size of the table top. If using two piles, use a ruler to ensure they are the same height. Tear pages out of an old damaged book from the middle of one pile (so it cannot be seen) till you get them even. When even, glue books together with craft glue and top with glass.

Papier Mache

Turn a simple wooden block into an abstract coffee table base with papier mache. Select a block of suitable dimensions for your table top. Rip up strips of old news paper, dip in PVA glue (poly vinyl acetate, a very versatile water-based crafts adhesive), and stick onto the block, building it up in layers. Mold as you go, adding extra layers of paper in different places to create curves, lumps or bumps. Leave to dry overnight every four layers. When finished, leave to dry, paint with acrylic craft paint and varnish with a final layer of PVA glue.

Mosaic Base

Turn a plain cement outdoor plant holder into a coffee table base. Pick a large planter of suitable dimensions and make sure it has flat edges. Collect old pottery with different designs, lay on a hard flat surface outdoors, cover with a cloth and smash with a hammer. Paint the clay pot with a coat of clear PVA glue to make it less porous. Cover the pot with grout (you can purchase colored grout from DIY stores to suit your decor), and start to press the shards of pottery into the clay until the entire pot is covered. Leave to dry before adding your table top.

How to Paint Over a Stained Wood Table

Painting furniture is a time-honored method of altering the piece's appearance to fit in more suitably with a particular decorating scheme. Wood tables are no exception to this practice, although if the table has been stained there will be a couple extra steps you need to take in order to prepare for the paint job. You should use enamel paint, rather than latex or acrylic paint. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Sand down any rough patches on the table to smooth it out in preparation for the primer.

2

Clean the sanding dust off the table. Give it a thorough scrubbing to remove any dirt or food stains from the surface.

3

Lay down plastic sheeting under the table to prevent the primer or the paint from spilling or dripping on the floor.

4

Apply a coat of primer to every part of the table you intend to paint. You have to use lacquer-based primer, as standard paint will not bond to a stained wood surface.

5

Wait several hours for the primer to dry.

6

Apply the first coat of paint to the table. Use a water- or oil-based enamel paint for the best results. Do not use latex or acrylic, as they will not bond properly to the lacquer-based primer.

7

Wait for the first coat of paint to dry. Add more coats as needed to achieve a uniform appearance.

Cute Ways to Paint a Side Table

Side tables come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and designs. However, finding the exact table that matches your needs often becomes aggravating and expensive. Decorate an existing side table or one from a thrift store using a creative painting method to make a cute and inexpensive alternative that fits your home decor needs. Does this Spark an idea?

Chalkboard

A chalkboard table is both cute and functional. Paint the legs and sides of the table any color that matches your rooms decor. Once the paint dries, paint the top of the table with chalkboard paint. It comes in both spray and brush-on forms, so choose the one that works best for you. After the paint dries, use chalk to write notes or draw pictures on the top of the table.

Animals

In a safari-themed room, paint a table using animal print. Choose from zebra, leopard or tiger. Follow traditional color combinations, such as orange and black for a tiger or yellow and black for the leopard or create a fun twist on the color scheme to add pops of color. For example, in a girls bedroom, use pink and black for the zebra stripes.

For a more whimsical animal-themed room, paint the tables to look like animals. For example, paint a small side table yellow. Once the paint dries, paint the face of a lion on the top of the table using acrylic paints. Use a staple gun to attach some fake fur around the top edge to create a mane and add a fabric tail to the back of the table, if desired.

Floral

To create a floral-inspired table, start with a solid base color. For example, paint the table a light yellow or cream color. Then, use a thin paintbrush to paint vines and flower stems up the legs of the table. On the sides of the table, paint the heads of the flowers, using colors that match the room's color scheme. Add more flowers on top of the table. Include butterflies, bees and ladybugs for a complete garden look. If you want to add a three-dimensional element to the table, attach silk flower heads to the table at the ends of the stems using hot glue or a staple gun.

Decoupage

After painting the body of the table a solid color to complement the room, use decoupage to decorate the top. Place pieces of paper on top of the table. Then paint on a layer of decoupage glue and let it dry overnight. Choose something that reflects who you are or follows the design aesthetic of the room. For example, if you are musician, choose sheet music. If you are an artist, choose prints of your favorite classical artist. Or, choose photographs of flowers in colors that coordinate with the rooms design. If desired, cover the completed table with a piece of glass to protect the decoupage from scratches.

How to Set a Nesting Table in Visual Merchandising

Retail nesting tables are space-saving, tiered display units that allow customers easy access to merchandise. Easy to execute and versatile, nesting tables can be arranged in multiple formations to adjust to shifting floor plans and a range of merchandise.

Instructions

1

Work this display into your store's planogram (a diagram for the placement of retail products on shelves to maximize sales) by measuring the exact amount of available space on your nesting tables and selecting the merchandise you will be displaying.

2

Set up the nesting tables in a staircase formation. Place the largest table in back and the smallest table in front in a customer-accessible location. Adjust table leg heights. Bring each table forward to meet the projected planogram size.

3

Pull the merchandise to be displayed. Prioritize the items in terms of desired visibility.

4

Arrange promotional signage and the prioritized merchandise on the top nesting table. Fan out the items for clear viewing.

5

Arrange the middle and bottom levels with same strategy.

How to Make a Table From a Drum

Repurposing an old object and transforming it into something useful and new is a rewarding task to accomplish. Drums come in a range of sizes and shapes, from the wide bass drum common in marching bands to the tall, narrow conga drum in Latin music. Turning old drums into end tables, nightstands or coffee tables can add a musical theme to a room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure the diameter of the drum head across the center, at its widest point.

2

Select from either wood, clear acrylic or glass for the tabletop. Clear acrylic and glass allow you to see the drum underneath, while wood covers the drum head, but still leaves the base visible as a main component of the table.

3

Draw a circular shape with a diameter at least six inches wider than the drum head onto the tabletop material of choice. Use a jigsaw or scroll saw to cut out a wood shape and sand the edges. Use a power saw with a special blade for acrylic to cut this material. Purchase a precut piece of glass for the tabletop, unless you are highly skilled at glass cutting.

4

Place the drum where the table will be located and lay the tabletop in the center. Decorate the tabletop with a tablecloth, accessories or any desired objects.

How to Plan a Trade Show Table-Top Display

Table-top displays at trade shows set amid the dozens of other displays competing for attention must be eye-catching in order to attract customers. Unless a feature of your exhibit compels visitors to take a closer look, your work may earn nothing more than a passing glance before they are off to another table. By planning your table-top display carefully, you may increase the chance that trade show visitors will stop and become new customers.

Instructions

1

Select one simple message that you want to convey. If your company name is easily recognized, that alone might serve as a significant draw. If you have a product with a unique feature that solves visitors' problems, build your message around it. Offer a special deal or a gift to trade show customers. Provide multiple points of attraction. What beckons one passerby might not interest another.

2

Design the largest and most visible part of your table-top display to get that message across to a visitor who is halfway across the room. Simple is better. If people are interested, they'll stop and ask questions and read more. A few words that can be read at a distance along with an eye-catching picture that shows product will entice visitors to your display to learn all the details.

3

Provide brochures and graphics elements that complement the central message. List your product's benefits in detail. Include elements that reiterate your special offer. Coordinate the design of the brochures with that of the rest of the display: Matching colors and graphics will help visitors connect the brochures with the display after they leave the trade show.

4

Select gifts that are unique and useful for trade show visitors. Imprint them with your logo and contact information.

5

Ensure your display is well-lit, even if you need to supply extra lighting. Stand where there's no barrier between you and trade show visitors. Be ready with a friendly smile to answer their questions. Place brochures and gifts where visitors can see and access them, but avoid making it too easy for them to simply pick them up and walk away without pausing to talk and connect on a personal level.

How to Set Up A Jewelry Display

Effectively presenting jewelry to would-be buyers involves carefully staging a display area and positioning pieces in such a way that their greatest attributes are highlighted. Other issues to take into consideration in setting up a jewelry display include lighting, traffic flow, theft prevention and ease of display transportation.

Instructions

1

Position your display tables or cases into configurations that encourage browsers to stop, look and try on jewelry without the risk of running into each other or getting stuck in a dead-end. Two effective designs are the L shape and the U shape. Both formats allow a salesperson to stand behind the displays and assist customers while encouraging a free flow of traffic.

2

Position mirrors on the backs of display shelving and on the flat surfaces of display tables. The reflective quality will make jewelry sparkle and shine.

3

Place tall display aids, such as earring trees and necklace display platforms, toward the back of the table or display case and position medium display aids, such as bracelet and watch displays, in front of those. Ring trays and flat cases for loose jewelry should be positioned at the very front. This approach provides full visibility for all pieces.

4

Remove jewelry from the cases or bags it was transported in and polish with a jewelers cloth before placing the jewelry on displays. Consider wearing gloves during this process to avoid smudging it with fingerprints.

5

Group jewelry by color, style or likeness. Place items that go together in close vicinity to each other. For example, if you display loose pendants, position chains nearby. Place high-value items in locked display cases.

6

Place items on an angle for full visibility and dont position jewelry items so close to each other that they lose their unique individual appeal.

7

Position display lighting in the cases or on the tables in such a way that key pieces are well-lit with residual light reflecting off of other adjacent pieces. Miniature track lighting works well for this purpose.

8

Add finishing touches to make the jewelry display visually appealing. Ideas include weaving tulle fabric among the displays, scattering flat-backed glass marbles in the case or placing floral accents at the base of display stands.