How to Customize a Game Table

A game table is a wonderful center for fun times as the family gathers to play and cheer. As Martha Stewart points out in the article Making a Game Table: "Homemade boards are just as easy to create as they were centuries ago and retain a warmth and attractiveness that is difficult to capture with mass-produced boards." Customizing a game table can be a family project, completed over just a few days. Choose the game your family enjoys the most, and get started! Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Seal and paint a wooden table in a color that is complementary to the room dcor. Follow paint manufacturer's directions, sanding carefully between each coat. Dry thoroughly.

2

Create a pattern for a backgammon board on scrap paper with a pencil and ruler. It is necessary to make the pattern for only a quarter of the board, as all four sections are identical. Size as needed, and transfer to the middle of the table using light pencil marks.

3

Paint the backgammon board design using two colors of contrasting paint. Dry thoroughly.

4

Cut coordinating decorative motifs from wrapping paper, scrapbook paper, magazines or tissue paper. Arrange these motifs around the painted backgammon board on the table top, moving and trimming until you are pleased with the design.

5

Decoupage motifs to the table top using a paintbrush and Mod Podge. Spread Mod Podge carefully to remove air bubbles as you progress.

6

Apply several coats of water-based sealer to protect the paint and decoupage and to prevent damage to table during use.