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How to upcycle rustic coffee table?

StarterDIY2025

After ideas for this coffee table, wanting to incorporate the coins which have just been placed just for reference. Lost as where to start with what might work in upstyling it to be more modern but keeping its rustic charm… Will be first time tackling something like this any ideas very welcome.

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Jewelleryrescue

Hi @StarterDIY2025

I think that coin idea will work if you paint the timber black to give the coins greater contrast.

I might clean the coins shiny again with a metal polish then seal then with a clear spray paint so they don't oxidize again, Not like they are valuable old coins which will devalue them.

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Jewelleryrescue

Hi @StarterDIY2025

I think that coin idea will work if you paint the timber black to give the coins greater contrast.

I might clean the coins shiny again with a metal polish then seal then with a clear spray paint so they don't oxidize again, Not like they are valuable old coins which will devalue them.

StarterDIY2025

Thank you so much that is very helpful, would you paint the whole coffee table black or just where the coins are going?

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @StarterDIY2025. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about about upcycling a coffee table.

The table has a lovely rustic charm, and it’s great that you’re thinking about enhancing it with the coins! If you’re aiming to keep its character while making it a bit more modern, it really depends on what specifically you feel needs updating. If you love the overall look but just want to incorporate the coins, leaving most of the table as is might be the way to go. The coins add a unique touch and a story to the piece.

For a subtle enhancement, you could paint or stain the area where the coins will sit, perhaps in black or a dark shade, to create contrast and help the coins stand out. Polishing the coins to a shine and sealing them with a clear spray paint, as suggested, will protect them from oxidation and preserve their appeal.

If you’re considering a bigger transformation, you could experiment with sanding and re-staining the wood in a slightly darker or lighter tone to refresh it while maintaining its rustic look. Alternatively, painting only certain sections, like the legs or edges, could create a modern accent without overpowering the original style.

Ultimately, it’s all about what you want to achieve. If you’re happy with its current character, a minimal approach might be best—sometimes less is more.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

StarterDIY2025

@MitchellMc Thank you so much that is very helpful. I think the minimal approach would be a good first step into the world of doing things myself and my main aim is to enhance the coins which I’ve collected from around the world so will definitely clean and seal them 😊

Jason

Looking forward to seeing how it turns out @StarterDIY2025. Please keep us updated during the project.

Jason

StarterDIY2025

@Jason I will for sure just in the process of polishing the coins, the recommended metal polish works a treat 😄

StarterDIY2025

phase 1 black chalk paint top

JacobZ

Hi @StarterDIY2025,

That looks brilliant. I'm a big fan of using chalk paint in this application. It is going to give a fantastic backdrop to your coins.

I am very excited to see the next step!

Thank you for sharing.

Jacob

StarterDIY2025

finished product very happy, ended up staining the upper wood a bit darker to match legs

JacobZ

Nice work @StarterDIY2025!

I knew the chalk paint would look fantastic.

Thank you for the update. I hope you are happy with the results, and you are proud of your efforts because you certainly should be.

Jacob

StarterDIY2025

finished product dressed 😊

StarterDIY2025

Thanks @JacobZ I’m very happy thanks to you and the team for your ideas and encouragement. I am very proud and looking forward to tackling more projects over 2025.

JacobZ

I look forward to the next project @StarterDIY2025.

Once again, nice work!

Jacob

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