For my next unusual surface, I decided with the encouragement from my wife, to paint a Mariner's Compass pattern on a 6' round picnic table that we had for about 25 years. The table was showing signs of age and probably might have been thrown away. However, the table was made by a good friend of the family, who had passed away last year. So, the table had a lot of sentimental value attached to it. The process of restoration had begun.
The old stain and paint was sanded down to the bare wood. I also took the time to clean out all the old leaves, twigs and dirt from between the slats. I then applied two coats of an exterior primer/sealer to the top and sides of the table. The Mariner's Compass pattern was line out on the surface and the first set of colors was applied. If you closely, you can make out the compass pattern
The next photo shows the completed Mariner's Compass pattern. Normally, I will not apply a finish/sealer coat to the pattern. However, because this is a picnic table and will get used in our backyard, I will apply some type of durable finish to it, so that items placed on the table will not scratch or damage the pattern. Of course, when used I will put a table cloth over it.
This was undoubtedly the most interesting and fun barn quilt (on a table) that I've made. My next project will be a 6' rectangular picnic table that my wife and I bought, 40 years ago, when we were married. Before I work on it, I have to replace several boards due to rotting. But, this will be done over the next several weeks. So, stay tuned for another picnic table barn quilt creation!!
