Saw a lovely entertainment center at costco and my husband wanted to buy it. I said, wait, I think I can make over the one we have ignored for years - skeptical, but willing to see. He and the entire family loves the results. If only I had a project plan, might have gone more smoothly - but, trial and lots of errors got it to the point you are seeing. Happy to answer any questions.
Time: 4 Hours
Cost: $25
Difficulty: Medium
Very heavy - solid oak! Took it out to the barn/workshop and prepared to sand.
sanded using #80 grit. Moved it around so I could get to the different areas easily, meaning, setting it on it's side, etc.
worked on a color of the stain - son in law had built a gorgeous custom table for a client and he said I could use the remaining stain but it was too dark - used Rustoleum Antique White to soften and blend. Then as a final finish used minwax poly to give it a high gloss at the end.
closed out the back and ends with 1/4 x 2 poplar trim - should have used my nailer to finish - one of the "errors" I made, but you can't see it luckily since it is in the back.
Made doors, trimmed the ends, put cool off color foots on the base, had the guys at lowes cut Plexiglass for the doors which I installed using industrial Velcro so I can take off to clean easily. Top is still a discussion - might do a gray tile or might leave it dark to match the legs. Will keep you updated. Again - no project plan, just some trial and a lot of error, but really happy with the finished product and as much money as I spend at Costco - happy I could produce that my husband loved.
Suggested materials for this project:
1/4 poplar trim (Home Depot/Lowes)
1/4 oak plywood (home Depot/Lowes)