How To: Upgrade an Ikea Lack Table With an Easy-To-Use Inlay Stencil
10 Materials
$120
8 Hours
Easy
Hi there! Have a basic Ikea lack table that needs some love? Why not upgrade your everyday coffee table using an inexpensive and easy to use Inlay Stencil Kit? This DIY stencil project is simple and the finished product will take your breath away. Let’s get stenciling!
The stencil used for this DIY stencil project is the Priya Bone Inlay Furniture Stencil Kit. The paint used was Benjamin Moore Dove White. We mixed chalk powder into the paint to help with adhesion on the lack table’s surface. Spray adhesive is optional and can help reduce paint seepage but, is not always necessary. We highly recommend spray adhesive for this DIY stencil project because the stencils will be used frequently. The stencils in this kit vary in size so you can use a 2” dense foam roller for the larger stencil patterns and a professional stencil brush for the smaller stencil patterns.
First, find the center of your table using a tape measure. Extend the tape measure on the horizontal part of the table and mark the center. Repeat on the vertical part of the table. The point where the two marks meet is the center of your table.
Before you jump straight into stenciling, layout the stencils to get a visual of what the table will look like. Now is the time to mix and match different patterns and see which stencil combinations you like best! There is a stencil pattern for every personality! You can even mark the patterns with a chalk pencil so it’s easier to remember the order of the stencil patterns later. Start in the center of the table and work your way outwards. This will make stenciling a breeze!
You can even tape off certain sections of a stencil for a unique pattern! This will add your own personal flair to this DIY stencil project.
If you feel like there is too much empty space, you can always go back and fill in portions with a specific section of a stencil. Simply tape off the unwanted areas and stencil the rest. It couldn’t get any easier!
Stenciling borders may seem daunting but it’s actually super easy! The most important aspect is to make sure the stencils are straight. To do this, you can use a T-square ruler. Make sure the T-square portion touches the edge of your table, then place the stencil on the table so that the edge of the stencil touches the ruler portion. This will ensure that your stencil and border will both be straight! Continue to work your way outwards using various different inlay stencils.
For larger sections, you can stick to a professional stencil brush or use a 2” dense foam roller. Use whatever you’re most comfortable with! Don’t worry if the edges of the stencil hang off the edge of the table. This will make your inlay unique! Peel back your stencil to reveal your gorgeous stenciled tabletop.
Don’t forget to stencil the sides and legs of the lack table! You can stencil a border around both the sides and legs or keep it simple with just one stencil pattern. Either way your table will look amazing!
To protect your new stenciled wonder from scratches or spills, apply two coats of water-based polyurethane. Pro tip: Don’t shake the polyurethane before opening, instead take a popsicle stick and gently stir it. Shaking it will cause bubbles that can be seen on your finished stenciled piece.
With a wood finishing pad, gently apply the polyurethane onto the table. Glide the pad horizontally across the table making sure there are no bubbles or bumps. The biggest mistake when applying polyurethane is thinking that multiple thin coats will cover the table more effectively. In reality, two thick coats of polyurethane will cover the table completely and help to prevent damage in the future. Allow the table to sit for at least twenty-four hours before using it!
Take a look at your one of a kind stenciled accent piece! Who wouldn’t want this stunning table in their house?
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2 of 59 comments
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😍LOVE THIS!
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What an amazing transformation. It looks beautiful.
Frequently asked questions
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I redid my table top with dark stain and several coats of poly. Do you think I could stencil over that or would I have to start all over. Ugh!
...but where is the soft, thick, cushy, bed for your dog to sleep on?
Beautiful. I recently did a stencil project on narrow boards. I've never used it before but decided to try spray that holds the sencil in place. It was a disgusting mess. Do you think I sprayed too close to the stencil? Cleaning the stencil was a disaster; cleanng the sticky off my project was an all day job. What do you think. I love your project and was wondering if you used the spray. Stay healthy! Ilene