Journal  |  Smoky Fusion Duo— French Provincial Bedside Tables

Smoky Fusion Duo— Bedside Tables

By Faye Caroline  
  June 9, 2024

I recently found these French Provincial bedside tables around the same time I read Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert. It was a fantastic read that reaffirmed my desire for creative living and encouraged me to keep trying new things that spark my curiosity. I’m so glad I had that inspiration because my first attempt at transforming these tables didn’t turn out as I’d hoped—failed miserably, in fact. It was a ‘go big or go home’ moment, and I decided to brave paint blending again. Here’s the thing about paint blending, though—it is NOT for the faint of heart. But if you’re patient and don’t overthink it, the results can be spectacular. Wipe away your fear, sand between coats, and just go for it. And if it doesn’t turn out the way you hoped—remember, it’s only paint, folks!

French Provincial Bedside Tables

Matching tables are a rare find, and when I came across these two online, I knew I had to scoop them up fast. Their size is just right, with tops that can easily accommodate your nighttime essentials. The interiors are surprisingly spacious, offering plenty of storage for everything you need by your side. With their charming design and practicality, perhaps you too will agree that this duo is perfect for a bedroom that embraces old-world charm and timeless beauty. Hello world!

French Provincial Bedside Tables BEFORE
French Provincial Bedside Tables AFTER

 

Discover the enchanting blend of old-world charm and contemporary elegance with this stunning set of vintage French Provincial bedside tables. Transformed using a mesmerizing 3-colour blend, this set exudes a smoky finish that is both sophisticated and unique. The intricate detailing and graceful curves are sure to add a touch of timeless beauty to any space. Perfect for your bedroom as matching bedsides, or as accent pieces in your home, these two promise to be an alluring fusion of style and functionality. A duo that embraces sweet imperfections, artisanal character, and enduring charm.

 

Prairie Crocus

All products mentioned in this post—and every post I share—are ones I regularly reach for. They’ve earned a spot in my toolbox because they’re reliable and deliver results. Simply what I use, trust, and recommend, shared honestly with you. No affiliate links, no commissions—just straight talk from my whole heart.
Country Chic Paint

Featuring

These are the products that brought this transformation to life—ones I trust, recommend, and share honestly with you. Select any to explore other projects for inspiration and see where to buy.

Prairie Crocus
Country Chic Paint DARK ROAST
Country Chic Paint DRIFTWOOD
Country Chic Paint SIMPLICITY
Country Chic Paint SUNDAY TEA
Q

Take a Closer Look

Q

My Step-by-Step Transformation

These are the steps that brought this transformation to life—shared to guide and inspire your own project. Learn better by talking it through? Let’s connect for a consultation to bring your vision to life.

Prairie Crocus
  • Lightly sanded down body and doors — In preparation for paint application; 120 grit
  • Heavily sanded down tops and front legs — In preparation for desired stain application; 80, 120, 220 grit
  • Thoroughly vacuumed and washed — Necessary preparation for any and all furniture restorations
  • For my first attempt, I painted the bodies with Homestead House milk paint in the colour Bayberry, and stained the tops and legs — That idea failed miserably (mainly because the veneer tops and legs stained terribly), thus I needed to come up with a 2nd transformation plan
  • Spray painted the interiors with Rustoleum Painter’s Touch — To ease the application of mineral paint
  • Applied 2 coats of Fusion Mineral Paint in the colour Chateau to the interiors — For a complete transformation; brush application
  • Applied/blended 3 coats of Country Chic Paint in the colours Dark Roast, Driftwood and Sunday Tea— Wet-brush, dry-brush and mist application; with a light 220 grit sand in between coats
  • Applied 1 coat of Country Chic Paint Black Wax to the intricate details and crevices— For added depth and dimension; brush application, lint-free rag buff
  • Applied 1 coat of Country Chic Paint Natural Wax to the body and tops — For a buttery smooth protection; brush application, lint-free rag buff
  • Applied 1 coat of Rustoleum Painter’s Touch to the entire set — For even more protection
Q

One-Hour / One-on-One / $80

Looking to achieve a similar look? Getting started with furniture transformations can feel overwhelming, but with hands-on experience since 2017, I’ve learned so much along the way. I’d love to share what I know and help guide you through the process.

Let’s work together! Whether it’s over the phone, via a screen-share session, or even over a coffee (or wine!), we’ll make a plan to bring your vision to life.

Prairie Crocus
Q
Second Verse Foundry

With all my heart and hands

This project reminded me why I love the creative process—it’s not always perfect, but it’s always worth it. Transforming these French Provincial bedside tables pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, especially when I braved paint blending again. It was a challenge, but that’s the beauty of DIY: mistakes are just part of the journey.

If you’re considering tackling a similar project, here’s a tip—don’t let fear hold you back. Paint blending isn’t for the faint of heart, but the results can be incredible if you’re patient and willing to trust the process. Remember to sand between coats, take a step back when needed, and most importantly, enjoy it!

 

These bedside tables are now full of character and charm, and I’m so glad I gave them a second chance. If you’ve got a piece sitting in the corner waiting for a refresh, I hope this inspires you to dive in. Creativity isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up and letting curiosity lead the way.

If you’ve worked on a project recently—or have one in mind—let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear about it! Thanks for joining me, and I can’t wait to share my next transformation with you.

 

Faye Caroline

2 Comments

    • Faye Caroline

      Hello back at you! This is also a test! 😉

      Reply

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At Second Verse Foundry, simplicity is more than just a style—it’s a way of life. In a world often cluttered with trends and noise, there’s beauty in slowing down, in looking at something forgotten and seeing what it could become. That’s the heart of what I do: curating and transforming furniture, dinnerware, and other antique and vintage treasures into timeless accents that feel perfectly at home in modern living.

Through thoughtful touches and intentional care, I give these treasures a second chance—not to be flawless, but to be loved, to belong, and to carry their story forward.

Giving new life to the past, preserving meaningful stories. Timeless charm for modern living, curated with for YOU.
— EST. 2017 by ARTISAN @fayefossay

Second Verse Foundry
 

Second Verse Foundry represents transformation and storytelling—taking timeless treasures and giving them a second chance to shine. Inspired by the second verse of a song and the artisanal reinvention of a foundry, it reflects my artistry in preserving the past while reshaping it for today’s home.