A Genius DIY To Make An Ugly Fire Pit Look Better

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Whether you're roasting marshmallows, cooking hot dogs, or just warming up on a cool evening, it's nice to enjoy a fire every now and then. Even better if you have a portable fire pit to transform any area of your backyard into a cozy gathering spot for family and friends. Plus, it's convenient to store when not in use, freeing up valuable space. One drawback to this type of backyard fire pit, though, is that it can be an eyesore to have sitting in your yard if you don't have a designated storage area — especially as it ages. Luckily, there is a way to disguise it. This DIY involves using a thrifted tabletop to create a table-like disguise for your fire pit. 

All you need for this project is an old table from a thrift store or yard sale, sandpaper, and a weather-resistant stain, such as the Furniture Clinic Indoor & Outdoor Wood Stain. Also, keep some tools handy to help you remove the table's top. If the table you choose needs a little spiffing up, add paint to the list. When you're finished, you'll have a lovely new patio table, and your fire pit will be nowhere in sight. This is an easy project with plenty fun customization options. Not only is this a great hack for hiding your fire pit, but it's also a unique way to repurpose an old fire pit you no longer want.

To start this DIY, measure the diameter of your fire pit. Then, use that measurement to choose a table at a thrift store or yard sale. You may also be able to find a low-cost or even free table on Facebook Marketplace. Regardless, be sure to pick a table with a round top that has a diameter slightly larger than your fire pit so rain won't seep in and pool. When you have your table, remove the top of it, sand it down, and apply a coat of weather-resistant outdoor stain. When the stain is dry,  place it on top of your fire pit. That's it — you now have a nice-looking patio table. If you already have an outdoor table and chair set, you can set your fire pit table in a garden nook and place some potted plants on top of it.

As far as customization goes, you could, of course, paint the tabletop to match your patio decor or exterior paint color. Or, stick to a garden color scheme that never goes out of style. Maybe even take it to the next level by adding travertine tiles or using colored glass pieces to create a mosaic pattern. For these ideas, you will need grout, adhesive, and sealant, as well as a sponge and a tile trowel. Don't forget to include tile spacers when working with travertine tiles.