Welcome to ArtMetal, Tom! That's a nice looking table base you've made. I like the addition of the "V" elements in the top framework - it gives it that little flair that makes it interesting.

As for finishes, I have some fairly strong opinions on that subject. I don't like powder coating. It is almost impossible to touch up should it become damaged or defective in any way. Also, I feel it places control of the most obvious visual aspect of the piece with someone other than the designer/fabricator. For production work, this probably necessary as sole-authorship is unrealistic for mass production, but for one-off designer pieces I think the whole thing should come from one mind. That's my personal opinion, your mileage may vary. :-)

I'd suggest you look into some of the patinas offered by SculptNouveau. They offer chemical patinas, surface coatings and dye-based patinas that can turn an ordinary piece into something really extraordinary. Regular paint can do the same thing in the hands of someone truly proficient and creative in its use.

Well, there's a couple things for yo to think about and for others to comment on. I'm sure you'll a lot of valuable input from the members here.

Rich

Welcome, Tommy, the table is beautifully done. I like it just the way it is and the proportions are great just the way it is. Lin

If you want to go with a simply done finish I have had nice results with spray can finishes. I get the textured paints or the hammered look sprays and use at least a couple of colors. Like I might use a textured black and a bronze which I would just lightly highlight the black with. I did this recently on a railing and liked the results. I also used a similar method to customize a large plastic pot to coordinate with the verdigris finish on some nice oriental style lights for a driveway flowerpot.