how to paint upholstered chair

Upholstered chairs can bring vibrancy and elegance to your home décor. If you have old upholstered chairs that are still structurally sound but have lost their luster, consider painting them instead of throwing them away. Painting your chairs can save you money, and it can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. In this article, we will guide you through the process of painting upholstered chairs, step-by-step.

Materials You Will Need

To paint upholstered chairs, you will need some basic materials:

• Paint - choose a fabric-friendly paint such as textile paint or latex paint mixed with a textile medium.
• Primer - use a fabric-specific primer such as Gesso or Zinsser Bullseye 123.
• Spray bottle - to dampen the fabric before and after painting.
• Paintbrush - to apply the primer and paint to the surface of the chair.
• Sandpaper - to smooth rough surfaces or remove old paint.
• Tape - to mask off any areas that you don't want to get painted.

Preparation

The preparation phase is crucial to ensure that your upholstery will hold up well against wear and tear. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Clean your chair - use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or debris from the surface.
2. Sand the surface - this is necessary to create a surface for the primer to adhere to.
3. Apply primer - use a soft-bristled brush to apply the primer. Let it dry according to the recommended drying time.
4. Sand again - before painting, sand the surface again to make it smooth.

Painting

Now that you've prepared your chair, it's time to paint. Here are the steps:

1. Mix the paint - according to the instructions, mix your paint with a textile medium or use fabric paint for the best results.
2. Wet your fabric - spray water onto the fabric to make it damp. This will help the paint to spread evenly and absorb better.
3. Paint - use a paintbrush to apply the paint evenly to the fabric. Work slowly to avoid drips and to make sure you go over every crevice. You may need to apply multiple coats of paint.
4. Dry - let the paint dry according to the recommended time before moving the chair.

Finishing Touches

Once your upholstered chair is painted and dry, it's time to add the finishing touches. Here's what to do:

1. Smooth the surface - if necessary, sand the surface to remove any rough spots from the paint.
2. Reassemble - put back any parts that were removed before painting.
3. Protect the paint - use a fabric sealant spray to protect the paint from fading and stains.
4. Add pillows - add some colorful pillows to your newly painted chair to give it an extra pop of personality.

Conclusion

Painting an upholstered chair can be a rewarding process that brings new life into a piece of furniture. By following these simple steps, you can create a unique and beautiful piece that is sure to impress your guests and enhance your home’s décor.