Materials: Glass and Metal
Mom’s metal-and-glass hand-me-down may look like a prop from That ’70s Show, but don’t consign it to the flea market’s kitsch corner quite yet. A few coats of spray paint can turn it into a piece that’s downright stylish — and 21st century–appropriate. Krylon Fusion is a good choice for both the glass and the frame (though most spray paints work on metal; check the label).
Step 1: Remove the glass and set it aside. Use steel wool to scrape off any rust you see on the frame.
Step 2: In a well-ventilated area — outside on a nonwindy day is best — set the frame on cardboard or a drop cloth that extends a foot beyond it in all directions. Shake the paint can for two minutes. Then, from 10 to 12 inches away, spray on a thin layer, using a sweeping motion that starts off of one side and continues past the other. Let it dry completely (check the can for drying time), then apply a second coat, flipping the frame over if necessary to cover it completely.
Step 3: Clean both sides of the glass to remove all dirt, dust, and streaks. Next, lightly spray-paint only the underside. This gives the glass opacity and a pretty color but leaves the top easy to clean and still able to accommodate a coasterless glass without scratching.

Shopping List

Two cans Krylon Fusion (comes in 39 colors; shown in River Rock on the glass and White on the frame), $4 to $5 each, www.krylon.com for store locations.

One pack steel- wool pads, about $2 at hardware stores.