How to Make a Coffee Table to Show Off Family Photos

Prepare your coffee table. Clean the surface of the table using a lint-free cloth and an all-purpose cleaning solution to remove dirt, dust and any oil residue. Allow to dry completely.

Create a smooth surface and even out the color of your table (optional). Remove loose paint chips and soften ridges using a medium-grit sandpaper. Use a lint-free cloth to remove any sandpaper dust. If you wish, paint the tabletop in a background color for your photos using a roller to avoid brush marks.

Imagine you're designing an oversized scrapbook display as you think about a theme for your arrangement; for example, holidays throughout the year, a recent family vacation or the favorite hobbies of each family member.

Mat your photos on top of colored card stock, printed scrapbook paper, handwritten notes, pages of a book or sheet music using double-sided tape or, if you prefer, affix them directly to the tabletop.

Arrange the layout of your pages to your liking. Once you are satisfied with the configuration, attach a heavy glass top that can be removed easily to rotate photos.

Use decoupage medium to create a permanent display. With a sponge paintbrush, apply a thin coat of decoupage medium to the back side of your photos. Lay the photos on the tabletop according to your configuration. Use a rubber craft roller to secure the photos and remove any air bubbles.

Allow the photos at least 30 minutes of dry time before applying a second coat of decoupage to the top of your display to seal the photos.

Apply a coat of shellac or a glass top to the table to provide shine, long-term durability and protection.