We transformed another end table into a pet bed. It’s been a while since I discussed our previous ones like the Peacock Pet Bed and the Red Flannel Pet Bed. I thought I’d review the steps and include some new tips.
Zinsser Shellac went down first, followed by Paris Grey from the Annie Sloan Chalk Paint line. I neglected to get a “Before” photo, but you can get an idea from the interior wood. I liked the wood grain that appeared through the paint. That’d be important in the Dark Wax phase.
Springtime is here in Florida, so David and I painted outdoors as sunlight dappled our work area. We put down 2-3 coats of Emperor’s’ Silk, occasionally dipping our brush in a cup of water because we were running low on paint. But we finished the job with about a tablespoon to spare.
We used a printed burlap from JoAnn’s for the interior. I measured the diameter of the floor and planned to tie twine between a pencil and a marker to draw my circle. David intervened and used a fancy compass. Either way will work. Here’s the bottom, not yet glued.
I tried a new technique to cut straight lines in my burlap and highly recommend it. Pull out a single thread all the way across your piece to create a straight cutting line that won’t fray. I found this technique at Melanie and Stephanie’s site 2IY.
Gravity! Tip the end table on its side when it’s time to lay down the fabric on the inside wall. Let gravity assist you and not fight you. Work in sections and keep rotating the end table. I used Elmer’s Glue and, after I ran out, Mod Podge directly on the wood and carefully pressed down the burlap. I used an exacto-knife to cut the overage, and added more glue/Mod Podge along the edges.
I left my work table for a few minutes and came back to find Starbuck testing out the pet bed. I shooed her away because this will belong to someone else’s pet.
I brushed on Annie Sloan’s Clear Wax, wiped it off. Dark Wax followed: applied and wiped off. I really like the rich tone the Dark Wax gives to Emperor’s Silk and the way it enhances the carvings and wood grain.
David finished the piece by putting down faux tacks along the edge of the circular burlap. Next, we staged our kitties near the pet bed. We used food as a lure. Fortunately, none of them wanted to enter the pet bed and nestle into the Petco cushion. They just wanted food.
Avonlea Antiques and Design Gallery is hosting a Spring Parking Lot Sale this Saturday, April 18. We’ll have a tent outside. This beautiful pet bed, suitable for a cat or small dog, will be available in the tent. Our booth inside Avonlea is loaded with treasures. Currently we are offering a 15% sale on everything in Booth #76.
Stop by. We’d love to see you.
Ann Marie and David
Featured at:

Participating in: