Good Questions: Creative Ideas for this Table?

Adam sent us an email: Just looking for a bit of creative spark from the commenters. I bought these tables via craig and they have this unusual plastic/tin inlay with what appears to be a Christmas pattern. They don't pop out, but there is a glass cover, so I was thinking of cutting a graphic print to size or collaging vintage postcards/photos...

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It's my first apartment, so I'm trying to avoid looking too college- esque, and I'm a little hung up on the fact that most of my ideas seem to scream COLLEGE like a Belushi sweatshirt.

Here's hoping fellow ATers can give me something to "borrow."

Please share your NON-college-y ideas with Adam in the comments - thanks!

Comments (7)

Have you thought about removing the glass and creating a custom mosaic? If you use tiny tiles, the look will match the retro feel of the tables.

posted by sunan on January 26th 2009 at 1:24pm
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Do you hate that pattern or something? It doesn't look Christmasy to me, just stylized and retro. You might want to keep it, if it goes with the colors in your room.

posted by SherryBinNH on January 26th 2009 at 1:33pm
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I really like the pattern too.

posted by dn on January 26th 2009 at 1:38pm
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Please consider just using them as is...that pattern is very stylish and the tables are beautiful in their retro glory.

posted by Shoodylu on January 26th 2009 at 1:52pm
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I see what you mean about the current design. If it isn't Christmas-y, it's definitely too folksy for me. Instead of vintage postcards (kind of a fun idea), you may want to consider a printed paper. I just purchased some adorable vintage nightstands and lined them with a modern print from the scrap-booking section of a craft store.

posted by Miss*Lisa on January 26th 2009 at 2:34pm
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Thanks Miss Lisa, I've been getting antsy knowing that I really don't care for the way it is, but not knowing which way to turn.

posted by LincolnAve on January 26th 2009 at 2:48pm
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Looks great the way it is... if anything I'd focus on refurbishing the wood/veneer.

But if you insist on changing the inlay panel whatever you do be sure be sure to keep with the 1950/60's era, either through picking up vintage photos/postcards at a local thrift shop or purchasing remnants of vintage wallpaper online. Straying away for the era of the table (i.e. by inserting pictures of your own) will ruin the authenticity of the table and will most definitely will scream COLLEGE.

posted by phaedrus on January 26th 2009 at 4:58pm
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