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Issue 45

The Escapes Issue

Cook perfect pancakes
Build a modern rustic bench
Sew new life into a vintage dress

The human stain

What to do When the Coffee Table's Ringed Beyond Repair

by Ken Mori

Photos by Ken Mori

After years of an enamel-stripping caffeine addiction, the evidence is starting to show. Forget my incisors, I’m talking about my table! Get your feet off your own table and take a closer look. Is it scratched? Stained? Starting to look like driftwood? Don’t kick it to the curb just yet. Brew up a fresh pot (or dip into the cold stuff) and transform your favorite footstool into a coffee table-literally. With a little work, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind piece of functional art. Next up: What to do with the need-not-apply coasters.

Lightly sand the table’s surface so the gesso or primer will stick.
Paint the top of the table with gesso and let dry.
Brew some coffee and pour it into a bowl.
Using an assortment of mug sizes for variety, dip the bottoms into the bowl and stamp the table in a random pattern. Leave the cups in place for just a moment to create light, thin rings, or for up to a minute to make darker, thicker ones.
To create some artistic depth, fade some of the rings by dabbing them with a clean cloth.
Allow to dry, then apply a clear coat of polyurethane.
Pour yourself a steaming cup and admire your work.