One of the best ways to think about IKEA furniture is as a blank slate. IKEA brings the functionality and affordability and you bring the personality. Julia bought this LÄTT table and chairs for her daughter Greta's first birthday - almost a year later she decided it was time to bring them to life.
Four hours of work later she had this color blocked, chalkboard-paint topped version which absolutely thrilled her daughter. And, because she had all the paint and sealant at home already, the project didn't cost her a cent.
"Of all the DIY projects we do around here, there is hands down nothing more rewarding than doing something special for Greta. She gets so excited and is so grateful."
Thanks Julia!
Read more: Chris Loves Julia
(Images: 1. Ikea 2. Julia Marcum)
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I like the color choice a lot. It's hard to find people that will do children's furniture in colors other than primary or pastel, and I think it makes kids spaces seem more sophisticated without being inappropriate. Also, way to go on the three coats of clear coat over the paint! That will protect and enhance your investment in time and resources on this re-do.
Fabulous! Great use for chalkboard paint.
This is paint. Not a hack!!!!
great paint job
Is it me or since the change from ohdeedoh to here, we get more and more snarky and unnecessary comments ?
Great hack, Julia.
Tchouquet,
I've noticed that too!
Which is why AT should have kept the departments separate. Parents are more sensitive when criticized about what they do for their children than apartment dwellers are about their "stuff". Just sayin'.
Obviously, those commenters weren't taught very well by their parents.
It isn't a hack, it's a paint job. And not a very creative one. Nothing else about it's shape, size, or use is changed. That isn't a snark; it's a fact.
I am sorry to agree that this isn't a hack, it's a paint job. That said, the chalkboard paint is fabulous! :)
It'a hack to ME>>I love what you did...'grew it up'. Great colors and the chalkboard paint..I'd never think of that! Perfect.. : ) And defffff the comments that are rude and meaningless are from people that come across these posts due to the 'change' in the 'set up'..pay them no mind as they seem very crabby faced.; )
Love it! I especially like how you left parts of the wood unpainted. The colors are great too, as is the chalk board painted top :)
oh dear, i didn't even read the title, what do you care if it's called hack or a paint job, if it's not something you find interessting, why take the time to comment. -.-
i like the result a lot, little effort, great effect :)
Wow, some people are just meanies. This was done for her daughter who is now 2 years old and the most important thing is that her daughter was THRILLED with it.
If you are having a bad day, stay away from posting comments. Advice, suggestions or ways to maybe do it better I'm sure will be welcomed..but don't be mean. So unproductive.
I don't see any criticism of the project. I see commentary on incorrect word choice from the "editors."
I'm confused, is it rude to say something isn't a hack?
Yeah, I like this post. Who has time to argue semantics! This is a great idea. Very creative way to spruce up an inexpensive Ikea find. Two thumbs up!