I have a fondness for black and white and adore the high contrast buffalo check pattern. I have been incorporating this primarily red-and-black flannel pattern into my fall/winter wardrobe and home decor. Last year, I adorned an entire Christmas tree for only $10, with the buffalo check taking the spotlight.
When I stumbled upon this sturdy little table at a thrift store for $8, I saw an opportunity for a dramatic gingham makeover.
![white and gray buffalo plaid table makeover, after](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_after.jpg)
![buffalo check coffee table](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_7.jpg)
![Books and white flower pots adorn a black and white checkered table.](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_9.jpg)
With a bit of paint, tape, and patience, I was able to turn this uninspiring side table into a bold statement piece.
How to create a buffalo plaid painted coffee table
Supplies:
- Black, white, and grey paint (I used Americana Decor Chalky Finish)
- Foam paint brushes
- Drop cloth
- Tape
- Pencil and measuring tape
- Sealer (I used Decor Art’s Creme Wax)
![materials for DIY project](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_1.jpg)
I had been interested in experimenting with chalk paint, although I had never used it before despite being an avid DIYer. I had the misconception that it was solely for shabby chic furniture, which didn’t align with my style. However, I found out that chalk paint dries quickly, which would be beneficial for the multiple layers required for this project. I can confidently say that I now appreciate chalk paint, particularly its fast drying.
![sand the table first](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_2.jpg)
Begin by thoroughly sanding the furniture piece. I used a power sander for a quick and smooth surface.
![remove all the dust](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_4.jpg)
Clear the furniture of any dust.
![prime the furniture with one coat of primer](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_5.jpg)
Apply a coat of primer to the piece. I utilized a spray primer for a quick application and a clean surface for painting. Then coat the entire piece in white, including the table top and legs. Let it fully dry.
![tape off the stripes for the buffalo plaid pattern](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_13.jpg)
Using 1 1/2″ wide painter’s tape, create 3″ stripes across the top of the piece, maintaining equal spacing between the stripes. This will form 3 x 3″ squares in the final buffalo plaid pattern.
![A person is painting grey stripes with a blue and green pattern.](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_12.jpg)
Paint the stripes grey (you could also use black if your alternating color is going to be red). Let it dry.
![remove the tape](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_14.jpg)
Remove the tape.
![A blue and white striped table on a blanket.](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_15.jpg)
![Black and white striped table with blue tape striped across it.](https://www.curbly.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/buffalo_check_table_16.jpg)
Now, tape 3″ sections in the opposite direction on the table. I started from the