How to Transform a Wallpaper Table into Unique Tables

What is a Wallpaper Table?

A wallpaper table, also known as a pasting table, is a vintage gem that was initially designed for, you guessed it, wallpapering!

These tables were once a staple for professionals who needed a large surface for pasting wallpaper before applying it to the walls.

Now, they’re highly collectible and can be repurposed into charming home decor pieces. Whether you’re using one as a DIY project station, a unique desk in your home office, or even a craft table, these tables bring a nostalgic, rustic touch to any space.

Typically made of sturdy wood with a foldable or extendable feature, they come in various sizes and designs, from simple boards to more ornate versions.

Prices can vary, but you can often find them at flea markets, vintage shops, or online, ranging from affordable to a bit of a splurge, depending on the condition and rarity.

My First Thrifted Table Top Wallpaper Table

For a while now, I have had visions of a long wooden table on our farmer’s porch in Vermont, and let me tell you, when I saw this vintage wallpaper table at one of my favorite outdoor fleamarkets, I couldn’t take my eyes off it!

The size was perfect, and the fact that the legs folded in like an old card table? Pure genius.

The chairs were adorable but definitely would need some new heavy-duty cushions. Lucky for me, I had five green rattan chairs from an estate sale a couple of years ago that would be a perfect match for this vintage find.

After making sure those folding legs were in working order (and they were!), it slid right into our SUV without a hitch.

How to Refinish and Restore a Vintage Wallpaper Table

Once I got it home, I gave this secondhand wallpaper table a good cleaning with my favorite Restor-A-Finish, and wow – it really brought out a rich color and shine.

Learn more in this How to Refinish a Wood Table in Under 1 Hour post.

Sure, it’s got some chippy spots and paint marks here and there, but that’s precisely what makes it so special to me. I couldn’t wait to set it up on our porch, arranging the green rattan chairs around the vintage wallpaper table.

A quick stop for a fresh bouquet of summer flowers completed the look, and I instantly felt those breakfast table vibes.

With its vintage blue and white table setting, this setup is now my go-to for spring and summer dining on the porch.

Plus, I found it while out Thrifting with the Gals—check out our favorite blog series for more vintage treasure hunts!

Styling a Simple Breakfast Wallpaper Table

If you’ve been following along with me, you know that I love collecting blue and white dishware.

It’s a beautiful way to mix and match different patterns to create a stylish table.

Colored Glassware

Colored glassware is always a fun way to add color to your favorite outdoor wallpaper table settings.

I’ve collected a few cobalt blue glasses while thrifting for our tables from Vermont to Maine.

I also use my mother’s brown glassware in the fall, which I love.

Vintage Brass Candlesticks

I have found that this collection of vintage brass candlesticks comes in super handy.

I use these in almost all my home’s tablescapes and many other spaces. They are definitely a thrifted favorite!

The green rattan chairs with the red cushions I had covered last year fit beautifully with the wallpaper table.

My mother’s vintage sterling silverware always adds that special touch to every table, even this second-hand wallpaper table.

Keeping it all simple is key for us.

We don’t eat much for breakfast around here. Some bagels, fruit, and coffee suit us just fine.

It also makes for an easy setup and clean-up too.

Craft Room Wallpaper Table and DIY Projects

My second vintage wallpaper table was another gem I found at an antique store for just $200 – talk about a steal!

I immediately knew it would be the perfect addition to our newly repurposed sunroom, which I turned into my craft room.

The height of this wallpaper table is key – it’s the ideal working height, so I can stand comfortably while tackling my DIY projects.

Whether I’m pricing vintage finds for my booth, wrapping Christmas gifts, or working on eclectic craft projects, this table is a true multitasker.

It’s my go-to for everything crafty and creative in the sunroom. Plus, the sturdy height means I can even sit on a stool and work on projects for hours.

Wallpaper tables are a fantastic addition to craft rooms, workshops, children’s playrooms, and outdoor porches.

They’re the perfect blend of functionality and vintage charm, making them not only practical but also stylish!

In conclusion, wallpaper tables are not just practical tools of the past; they’re versatile pieces brimming with charm and functionality for today’s home.

Whether you’re using a wallpaper table for stick wallpaper projects, crafting, or even as a coffee table with a story, these treasures can transform any space.

Their lightweight design and convenient carry handles make them easy to move, while their vintage appeal adds a touch of uniqueness to your home.

With a bit of creativity, these tables can become the star of your DIY projects or the centerpiece of your eclectic decor.

Keep an eye out for one on your next antiquing adventure—you’ll be surprised at how many ways you’ll love using it!

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