Welcome to the board, you did a great job!! There is nothing wrong with upcycling. I had my husband do the same thing for me with my old office desk and it turned out to be the perfect and best economic solution. I am going to paint mine this spring, as soon as I can open the windows. The desk has a laminate, formica type finish and is scratched so I want to smooth it and make her look purdy. I plan to use an oil based outdoor or marine gloss. Happy sewing!!