Ending the Tyranny of the Scarlet Letter

le-002-e1294068700137-300×203.jpg” alt=”" width=”300″ height=”203″ />Remember my early December post titled “Wood” You See What I See? When I saw the weathered outdoor table, I thought to myself this would make a great indoor coffee table. Once a humble outdoor piece this table now holds its own, standing graciously in the center of a living room.

When its luster was no longer

bright and new the former owner placed it in a second hand store for $20. There is nothing more insulting to a piece of furniture than to

be undervalued by having a cheap price tag slapped on it. It’s the human equivalent to wearing the scarlet letter “A”.

It’s unbelievable that a piece with so much character was created for less than $60. I gave the table top a good sanding with 50 grit sandpaper until the roughness disappeared. Then I gave it a second sanding with 220 grit sandpaper until smooth. Using my Smart Design process I accounted for future design trends fluctuating back and forth between lighter and darker wood tones. By leaving one side light and the other dark I increased the table’s appeal and longevity of use. This table provides a huge textural element to any space.

I’m greatful that this table’s story has a happy ending. I can’t save every piece out there. My heart goes out to those pieces forced to experience the ridicule of the Scarlet Letter. So tell me … after seeing this transformation, “wood” you see what I see or pass on by?