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Hi AT,

Help! I have this very plain, light wood table (don't ask me what kind of wood--I have no idea--I just know it's not compressed) with four folding chairs, and I want to improve the look. I have just redone my apartment [picture after the jump], and can't afford a new set right now, so I have to work with what I've got.

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The table has water damage on the top, but otherwise it and the chairs are sound and in good condition. Anyone have any good ideas about how to DIY this boring table and cheap looking chairs into something that looks like it fits in with the rest of my apartment?

Thanks!
Jessica

Hi Jessica,

Looks like you need some help blending the old into the new. We'd recommend a couple of coats of a very high-gloss paint in one of your accent colors, maybe the celery green from your pillows and throw. (Unless the water damage is very bad, this should cover it.) If you have the patience for it, paint the chairs as well and add seat cushions to make them feel a little more comfy and substantial.

This is a question that our readers will want to wrap their creativity around, so comment away with your own ideas, folks!