She Turns A Vintage Milk Jug Into A Side Table That Adds Rustic Charm

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Milk jugs have been used for thousands of years as storage vessels. But nowadays, many people turn them into charming decor pieces that have nothing to do with the beverage. TikToker @rosiesrustics took it a step further by transforming a vintage milk jug into the prettiest side table, and the project doesn't seem difficult at all. If you dig the farmhouse design style, where rustic is totally chic, then you might want to make one, too. It's simple: you upgrade the can with a fresh coat of paint, then add a top surface. The end result is a side table that's far from ordinary.

To start, you'll need an old milk jug. If you're not having any luck at antique stores or thrift shops, try the internet. People sell them on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Etsy. As for the top surface, the DIYer used a circular RELIABILT 1-inch x 18-inch Pine Board, which is available at Lowe's. However, you can use any wooden piece as long as you can turn it into a tabletop. Measure the top of your milk can to make sure it'll be a good fit. In addition, you'll need some spray paint, wood stain, and an industrial-strength adhesive like Liquid Nails Heavy Duty.

Clean the inside and outside of the jug before starting. If you prefer, you can also remove rust from the old milk can. Now, place it on a drop cloth and paint it a new color, such as with Krylon ColorMaxx Spray Paint. You could go sleek and stylish with black, or make it pop with something bolder like red. Leave the jug to dry. Next, sand and stain your wood piece so that it looks polished. Don't forget to wipe it with a rag after applying the stain to remove any excess.

@rosiesrustics

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♬ original sound – Rosie's Rustics

Once your items are dry, you can attach them together. Squeeze glue around the milk jug's rim, then place the wooden surface piece on top. Follow the instructions on the adhesive to ensure you give it enough time to bond. You could also stack a few hardback books on the surface for pressure. Once the items are securely attached, it'll officially be a side table, but not just any old side table. Thanks to the vintage milk jug, it will have serious farmhouse vibes.

Instead of simply buying a side table (how boring is that?), creating one out of a milk jug will give you a furniture piece that gets noticed. Set it between a couple of chairs, and it'll be the perfect drink holder for you and a guest. Just make sure to use a stain with a waterproof sealer (or apply one separately) if the table will be outdoors. It would look adorable next to a living room couch or recliner, or as a nightstand in a farmhouse bedroom. You could also turn it into a stationary bar cart by using the top for bottles and accessories. Or, skip the drinks and use it as a snack table for movie night.

The project is simple, but you can get so many unique results. Picking a color you adore will make it special to your home. You could also add a design to the can's front, like with these HTAIER Farmhouse Stencils. The size, shape, and material of the surface can be adjusted as well. Just be mindful that it's not so heavy that it topples the jug over. For a side table that's not as permanent, set a round tray or mirror on top to use as a surface instead. You could also complete your creation with an embellishment, such as a burlap bow.