Antique Bedside Tables
If you find an actual antique bedside table, then congratulations. They aren't easy to find. While reproductions can be found most anywhere, finding an actual antique bedside table isn't easy for the typical (non-collector) antiques shopper. Two of the most popular designs for antique bedside tables (real or replica) in the U.S. are French Country bedside tables and Asian / Japanese bedside tables.
For those who love the look of French Country antique bedside tables but can't afford the real deal or a high quality replica, there are ways to turn an ordinary bedside table or nightstand into a convincing reproduction of the antique French Country style. The process requires a bedside table to undergo the transformation, plus primer, paint in a sunny yellow, royal blue, or terra cotta, rollers, brushes, wood stain, glaze, and sandpaper. You basically paint the stand one color, let dry, then paint a layer of contrasting color. When it's dry, sand the areas that would show wear so that the under-color shows through. You can mix glaze and wood stain for a final "antique" layer.
Though Asian style antique bedside tables are small, they do make quite a style statement. They may be a simple square topped table, a cabinet, shelves, or a more unique design like a a bedside table made to resemble stairs. As with European antique bedside tables, it can be difficult to find real antique Asian bedside tables. Fortunately, there are still artisans who create the tables in the traditional style so you can get the genuine look of an Asian bedside table.
