Pottery Barn table transformation

I got lucky.  I happen to be talking to a mother of my son's school friend.  After finding out I had a booth, she mentioned she had a table if I was interested.  Come to find out, she just wanted to get rid of it.  How can a gal like myself pass up something that is free?!  Well, of course I couldn't.

The table is from Pottery Barn.  The finish was shot and sticky.  Just the perfect condition for me to try out a weathered look.  Here is the before:

Can you see that this table was well used? 

Of course, I had to strip it.  The wood seemed to have soaked up a ridiculous amount of a red stain that peeks through most Pottery Barn black furniture.  It was proving to be the bane of my existence for a few days during the stripping and sanding process. 

After much persistence (and many grits of sandpaper), I got it as down to as much of the bare wood as I was going to get it.

I started off with a whitewash.  It definitely needed more depth.  So, next was a gray wash followed by a french linen wash.  I did some dry brushing here and there until I was satisfied with the result.  I gave the base and apron 2 coats of french linen and wax.  To finish up the top, I used a water based polyurethane (3 coats).  I much prefer polyurethane over wax.  I find it more durable, especially, for a dining table.

Here is the new weathered look.

Take a closer look.

I asked hubby if we should maybe keep it or if it should go to the booth.  He was concerned that there were no leaves to extend it.  I am not so sure why this would be a concern for him seeing how we barely ever have company.  Anywho, I decided to put it in the booth.  I am hoping someone can appreciate it because it took quite a bit of work.

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