Wheel Rim End Table

I made an end table for my bedroom because I wanted something unique. When I searched in stores and online for a new end table. the simplest tables that fit within my student budget were quite costly for low grade products, all made from cheap press board and glue. My mom and I went for a walk while Kal-tire was exchanging our car tires and we saw the area behind their shop for recycling tires and wheel rims. I came up with the idea of stacking two rims on top of each other, and then obtaining a glass top for it. Kal-tire gave us the rims free of charge; we already had a can of leftover metallic silver spray paint, and had steel wool pads for cleaning them. All that was left was to visit the local Glass Shop to enquire about a glass top. They quoted $30 for a piece of recycled shop glass to fit the top of the wheel rim. Therefore, the total cost of my table was $30. Since I was given used wheel rims free of charge, and already had steel wool and leftover paint - the glass was the only expense. Consequently, I now have the unique end table I wanted for my room - for 1/4 of the cost of a new table. It was planned and put together by myself, and it is also fire and flood resistant.

Additionally, it was time friendly as it only took two half-days in total to obtain the rims and glass, clean, paint and assemble it. And not to be over-looked, I really enjoyed making it.

I feel this project is in keeping with the spirit and guidelines of a budget friendly DIY category, using only recycled and used materials. Total cost was $30.

{I am 17 years old, presently in Grade 12, and home-schooling with Self Design Learning Community.}

1. 2 used wheel rims
2. 1 glass top, (made with re-used glass), cut to fit
3. steel wool and rags for cleaning
4. metallic spray paint & primer (2-in-1)
5. flathead screwdriver for removing wheel weights

Decide which wheel rim you want to use for the top of your table. Bring that wheel rim to the glass shop. Ask if they have leftover glass that can be used to save costs. They will need to cut the glass to fit inside the rim. They should polish the edge so it's smooth. This ensures a nice, smooth fit.

Use a flathead screwdriver to pry wheel weights from both rims if necessary. Removing the weights allows the rim to sit flat on the floor.

Use steel wool to scour the rims inside and out to remove rust and dirt. Use rags to wash and dry the rims thoroughly. You want a smooth and dry surface before spray painting. (Stains are acceptable as long as they are smooth.) Clean glass top next.

Follow spray paint can directions. I used a quick dry 2-in-1 product (primer and paint) as I had one on hand. I did one coat in quick side-to-side motions. It covered thoroughly. I allowed 20 minutes to dry before applying second coat per can instructions. Paint outside or in well ventilated area such as a garage with open door, using a breathing mask. I painted on my deck with a dust mask.

Stack rims together. Mine fit together like puzzle pieces because they are different sizes. (I put the most aesthetically appealing one on top.) Add glass. Stand back and admire.