Last week I posted the start of my Granny Chair Project and I’m so excited to share the results! This salvaged chair was a little different for two reasons.
1. This was my first time painting fabric and I had no idea what to expect.
2. This chair is for my OWN home and I can’t remember the last time I painted a piece for ME.
For those of you who know me, you know I’m a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to restyling furniture for clients and/or for sale. Because this throwaway chair was an experiment for my decor, I’ll be totally honest, I took a carefree approach… or should I say half-a$$!*… and just had some fun!
Why am I telling you this…
You may be on-the-fence when it comes to painting your fabric furniture. I promise you this post will be SUPER ENCOURAGING! If my lackadaisical efforts painting this granny chair can turn out THIS AMAZING, imagine how gorgeous it would be if it was done 100%! I’m really L-O-V-I-N-G this chair!
What I should have done… but didn’t…
Sand Legs & Arms – Rather than sand the arms and legs prior to painting, I just started painting. General Finishes does recommend sanding prior to applying their New Chalk Style Paint. But I’m happy to say GF Bone White
Mask off Areas – Instead of using painters tape to mask off the areas I wanted to keep clear of paint, I painted over the fabric. The Cardamom Brown was dark enough to cover the Bone White once I started painting the pink fabric.
Spray Fabric with Water – Instead of using a spray bottle to dampen the material before painting (which I’ve read on numerous blogs) I just dipped my brush into some water – then into the paint… then painted the fabric. Worked perfectly!
Apply 2-3 Coats – Instead of applying 2-3 coats of paint onto the fabric, I painted one coat, sanded, and called it a day. It looked and felt GOOD! It may have benefited from an additional coat but I was so pleased with what I saw (perfectly imperfect in my eyes) I went ahead and waxed. If I ever decide to paint a dark fabric light, or a fabric with a bold pattern, I’m sure more than one coat of paint will be needed.
Take-A-Ways & Tips From A Novice:
Tip 1:: To paint under and around the welting, lift and maneuver the fabric as best you can. All I did was pull back the material as far as I could- then paint.
Tip 2:: Water IS needed whether it be sprayed on prior to painting, watering down your paint, or dipping your brush into water and then the paint. The paint needs to sink into the fabric so it can kind of ‘dye’ the fabric. If the paint was used full strength on the fabric, it’s my guess it would sit on top and end up cracking with use.
Tip 3:: With ANY furniture project, use appropriate size brushes for the task. I used a small brush for the piping/welting and to get into all the nooks and crannies. A large brush for the larger surfaces of the chair.
Tip 4:: The watered down paint requires at least 24 hours to dry between coats and/or waxing. This is important because you don’t want to seal in any moisture. This could cause problems down the road.
Tip 5:: Sand between coats with a 220 grit or higher. After I sanded, the fabric felt MUCH softer.
Tip 6: Wax to protect. Rub in really well. It doesn’t need to be buffed to a shine unless that’s the look you’re after. I used Trewax which is a trusted floor wax. I figure a wax that can stand up to shoe scuffs and being walked on should be able to withstand a soft derriere. {yup, no buns of steel here!}
How Much Paint was Used?
I used slightly more than half a pint of General Finishes Cardamom Brown Chalk Style Paint
What does it look and feel like?
This was MY big question so you’re probably wondering the same. I’ve heard many bloggers describe the look and feel like leather or faux leather furniture. I would describe the look and feel like canvas or an outdoor fabric. It doesn’t look OR feel as stiff as I imagined it would!
Will I paint fabric again?
YES! I won’t be painting any high traffic chairs or couches because I have no idea how durable painted fabric is. And quite honestly, although it looks great, it’s not as soft or inviting as an upholstered piece. Now that I’ve tested it, I’m eager to paint a wing chair in my office. I’d really like to try a DIY Chalk Paint Recipe and/or fabric medium that gets mixed with latex paint. Ohhhh, the possibilities!!! 🙂
My last takeaway… and maybe the most important!
I’ve put off decorating my home because I don’t really know what my style is anymore… and I imagine everything to be perfect. My lesson is things don’t need to be 100% perfect to be beautiful. I really enjoyed experimenting with this chair and I’m SO HAPPY with the end results!
I’d love to hear what you think? Have you ever painted fabric before? If you have any tips or questions, leave me a comment below! 🙂
Related Posts ~
Salvaged Granny Chair Turns Hip – I Hope
General Finishes Chalk Style Paint Review
Pro’s & Con’s Of Painting Salvaged Furniture
**Update~ I’ve been asked how this painted fabric has held up, so here’s an update for you. I’ve been using this chair for almost 6 months now. I kneel on it at least 2x per day to help me reach my blinds when I open and close them. I sit on it a few times per week. I’m happy to say, the fabric doesn’t look or feel any different than when I first painted it. If and/or when it starts wearing away from all my kneeling on it, I’ll be sure to update you again. 🙂
Happy Painting and have yourself a great day!
Denise x
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Love the chair. How exactly did you get the wood to look like that.?
Thanks June! I painted 2 coats of General Finishes Bone White Chalk Style Paint and distressed with sandpaper. 🙂
Does the wax wear off on your clothing as you sit in it? Was wondering about this for a chair we use often.
No. So long as you apply it sparing (a little goes a long way… you don’t want to be slathering it on. It should sink in like a lotion would on your hands) and allow time for it to dry and cure, it doesn’t wear off on clothes at all. 🙂
Hello Denise,
i am writing from Germany. I love your work and tried it out right away.
I did my whole Breakfast sitting area. It came out wonderful in a deep brown. The only thing, it came out pretty hard the material. What would be the best wax to get it softer again?
Greetings from Germany,
Barbara
Hi Barbara! Any brand of wax should work well to seal your work but depending on how the fabric took the paint may or may not soften it up. Dixie Belle, Annie Sloan, Minwax Finishing Paste, Varathane Wax… I’m not sure what you have access to in Germany. 🙂
Hi, Caolinehere from the UK don’t be afraid to paint upholstery – I do it all the time- but do remember to sand down between coats and then apply wax and leave the wax (apply with a dry brush) and let it dry for 24 hours – then buff up with a towel until you get the softness you want.
Just found this as put ‘ painting fabric’ into your search. Have two matching chairs that would otherwise require me trying my hand at reupholstered, so will give this a go now! Thanks for posting this and the follow up on how it is wearing!
My pleasure Angeline and good luck with your chairs. I’d love to hear how they turn out for you!
I love the pillow. Where can I find that stencil
Hi Judy! It’s not a stenciled pillow but I agree, it would be an amazing stencil! You’re not going to believe where I found that pillow – Walmart!
Hi Denise! I LOVE your website!
You’re inspiring without bogging a person down with endless comments & points
I truly felt after reading your comments like I could do this!
Thank you Denise, I’m grateful❣️
~Sue
Hi Sue, and thank YOU! I truly believe if I can do it YOU can do it! I’m no different than anyone else… and sometimes, the most challenging thing about furniture painting is just getting up the nerve to try. 🙂
I love this chair makeover! This is my style, and I prefer older furniture of quality. So I will be trying this!
Thanks Debbie! If you give this a try I’d LOVE to hear how it works out for you. And I’m with you…I prefer older furniture too. 🙂
Hello, Denise: What is the purpose of the wax? Is it required? I want to paint a fabric chair white and I’m concerned that was would discolor it or cause it to yellow. What do you think? Thanks..
Denise, I am glad you did this and it looks fabulous! Have you painted your wing-back chair yet and have you tried your chalk paint recipe with latex on fabric? I read that prepping with Gesso is a good idea but it looks like you did fine without prepping. I have an ugly duckling from the ReStore that I want to turn into a beautiful swan and this technique is my magic wand. Thanks for keeping this post updated.
Hi Cecilia! No, the wing chair in my office is still looking sad and needs its makeover. And I haven’t tried using a DIY chalky paint on any type of fabric yet. I did, however, try painting velvet with a fabric medium and that didn’t turn out well at all.
Hi Denise, do you do a final sanding after the last coat on paint on the fabric before you apply the wax?
Yes, you can give it a really light sanding with a high grit paper 220-320 grit before waxing. 🙂
Nice tutorial and very helpful blog. You share the painting fabric with chalk style paints is really nice information. Fabric color is really awesome for use create a chalk style. I am impressed with your blog. Great work!
Wondering if this would work on outdoor furniture?
Hi Cara! I’m guessing if it was sprayed with some kind of water repellent fabric protector it would be fine.
I did this and it worked great for my guest bedroom. Thank you!
Wish I could attach pic
So glad it worked for you Tasha! 🙂
I guess I didn’t catch what paint you used on the fabric. Can you please provide the name and/or type? Is it just chalk paint?
What can I use on a velvet chair for paint?
Hi Carine! I’ll be honest, I haven’t had much luck painting velvet so I’m not sure.
What green was used on the dresser next to the chair. My whole bedroom is waiting on that shade of green. Please tell me.
Hi Lauree! I painted that dresser in Homestead House Niagara Green. 🙂
I’m in love with your chair! This has inspired me to paint my dining room chairs. I figure if I mess them up, I will Reupholster them.
I do have one question, how long before you can sit on the chair after being waxed?
Thank you! Happy Holidays!
Wax typically ‘cures’ between 3-4 weeks but dries within a day or two. I started using mine (light use) after it was dry. Have fun and I’d love to hear how your dining chairs turn out for you. 🙂
Hi Denise, do you think a chalk painted chair can be repainted I wasn’t the original owner, and would like to change the color. What are your thoughts/ideas?
Great question Melissa! I’m not sure. If the chair was already sealed with wax, I’m not sure the pigments would ‘dye’ the fabric or just sit on top of the previous finish and look more painted… hope that makes sense. If you give it a try Melissa (or anyone reading this has painted fabric 2x over) I’d LOVE to hear how it turned out!
Hi Denise … I am starting my First project. Must say a little nervous but following your directions it should turn out great. I am re-doing both my living room and kitchen. I have a arm chair that just doesn’t fit so the idea of painting the fabric is fantastic. I am not doing any walls as I rent my unit. I have a inspiration ottoman that I am pulling the colors out of..
Thank You for your great instructions
Hi Sandy! I totally get it. First projects are nerve-wracking because it’s something new and you REALLY want it to turn out. I hope you have some fun and I’d LOVE to hear how it turns out for you. Great project. 🙂
Thanks for this post. I was looking for an alternative to expensive wax for chalk painted fabric.
I ordered some of the Trewax clear paste wax.
I’m painting 8 oz cotton drop cloths in the hopes of making them look and feel like leather.
Its a camper remodel and I’m just chomping at the bit to finish it all!
Your chair looks great!
Hi Jocelyn. 🙂 I think you will really like the Trewax… and a camper remodel! What fun!!!
What a great idea with very clear instructions and added thoughts. I love your chair and the color you chose. I have new ideas now !
Does the wax have to dry for a certain amount of time after you apply it before you can sit on it? Also do you think this would work with chalk spray paint? I know they have upholstery spray paint but none in the colors I am wanting. Thanks!
Hmmm, not sure if it would work with chalk spray paint because I’ve never tried… if anyone has, please chime in! And yes, the wax should be 100% dry before sitting on it. I would recommend between 24-48 hours.
hello Denise, i’ve tried painting a chair, but it feels hard, i mean the fabric is hard, so i need to moisture it, could you tell me what is this wax used for exactly, so i can buy it, because i’m from Egypt, and i don’t know where to but this wax from.
Hi Denise!
Really great results you’ve gotten. Was wondering if I coulf get your oppinion on painting a whlle sofa that will be used many hours a day? Is it too risky and a waste of time and money or do you think I will hold up and not crack? 😊
Hmmm, I’m not sure Linda. This chair has held up perfectly but I don’t use it ‘many hours a day’. I’m guessing, a couch that will be sprawled all over may not last or hold up quite as well. Having said this, if it’s a couch your going to get rid of anyway, investing in a little paint and trying it out may not be a bad idea.
Hello Denise
That chair looks nice I picked a chair from a thrift store I love the old style . I sat in it at the store to make
sure that it did not smell bad it was fine until i got home and a few days later it smelled like smoke .
I was going to recover it but i think i will paint it like you did yours hoping the older of cigaretts will leave.
I doubt that the paint will cover up the smoke smell — I learned this the hard way.. The only way to “seal” in the cigarette smell is to paint it with clear shellac first and then paint over it.
Hi Denise, I actually did try dying fabric with your chalk recipe, and it turned out awesome! I used your favorite chalk recipe, and some Benjamin Moore paint. I used a 50/50 ratio of water to paint. I also sprayed down the piece with water first, then applied my paint. It takes a good 24 hours for it to dry thoroughly. After that a light sanding, and then another coat of paint. I only had to use two coats because I was painting the chair a very similar color. There were a few stains on the chair which is why I chose to paint it, plus it was a “practice run” for some other chairs that I want to paint. I am very please with the results, and can’t wait to start my other chairs.
Thanks,
Lori
Amazing Lori! I’m so glad you gave this a try and shared your results. The before and after pics you emailed me look AMAZING… like a brand new chair. Thank you!
I am painting some bar chairs but the stains keep coming up through my paint. Any suggestions on what product to use prior to my paint to keep this from happening?
How did you get the wood to look distressed with the white paint? Or what technique did you use?
Denise- What is your favorite brand of paint for a jet black? Chalk style, preferably. I am having trouble finding a true jet black, especially if you make it into chalky paint yourself. Thank you!
Hi Tess!!! 🙂 I don’t usually make my own diy black chalky paint because I’m pretty stuck on my favorites (which I’ve listed for you) and then I never run the risk of inadequate mixing and white specks showing up…which sometimes does happen with dark/black colors. Probably the blackest-black I’ve used is General Finishes Lamp Black on this Pottery Barn Knock-Off here and this desk here. But I have to say I’m a HUGE fan of antique looking blacks and I love MMS Typewriter in milk paint and my new fav is DB Caviar Black (which is a chalk mineral paint!) which I used on this Vintage Dresser Makeover. I hope this helps and have fun with your project. 🙂
Old Town paints true black is a very good true black…
Hi there…i see lots of different waxes for distressing the wood frame. What “color” wax did you use? Thx!
Hi Denise,
I’ve thought about doing this but am concerned about the wax and or colour coming off on the butts that sit on it. Any issues?
Hi Mich! No issues at all. I haven’t had any problems and it has held up beautifully. 🙂
Hi I want to paint a single office lounge, fabric chair. What is the best way to clean the chair before I begin. Thanks.
Julie
Hi Julie! A good vacuuming is sometimes all that is required. However, if you think it needs more tlc, cleaning the upholstery with a good upholstery (especially if painting in a white or light color) cleaner can be helpful.
Hi! Love the chair! I’m getting ready to paint 2 fabric chairs with wood frames and was wondering, after painting the frames, did you tape off the wood to paint the fabric part? My wood frame will be white and the fabric will be navy. No sure I trust myself not to mess it up lol
Hi Jen! I did not tape anything off, but taping off is a good idea if it makes you feel more comfortable. Have fun and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. 🙂
I love your chair and the tips and information on the chair fabric painting will be most helpful n my project. I acquired a small metal humpback trunk with ugly textured fabric on the outside of it.. I am excited and scared at the same time but with all of your tips I think it will turn out one. Anyway I hope it does. I will post before and after picks.
Hi Terry! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Great project and good luck! 🙂
Beautiful work! Thank you so much for your tips! I bought paint yesterday and plan to pain a chair today! How long do you wait to wax the fabric? I am applying a darker paint to a lighter fabric so I plan to just do one cost also… lastly I will be using my chair for a photo prop and am wondering if the wax is really necessary ?
Hi Lisa! I waited until the paint/fabric was 100% dry which was 24 hours. If your prop chair is going to be sat on, I would wax. If it’s just a ‘pretty chair prop’ with no bums on it, I would save some time and not bother… so long as you like the look. Hope this helps. Gorgeous images/work btw!
This has been so helpful! I am in the middle of painting six dining room chairs. I’m struggling with the wax part, as I have never applied wax to anything. I ordered the same wax that you used. How did you apply it? Did you use some kind of brush? Is there a special brush for wax? I can’t seem to get it out of the container with brushes I am trying. Can I apply Scotchguard over the wax to help protect white fabric being used in high traffic waiting room? Thank you for all your help! I love your colors on your chair.
Hi Katherine! You don’t need a fancy brush or any brush at all to apply wax. For years, I used a soft lint free cloth. The easiest way to apply wax is to get a small amount on your cloth and rub it into your chair working in small areas. The key is less is more! It’s like rubbing a lotion into your hands. Have you ever glopped on a ton and then it doesn’t rub into your skin? The same will happen with the wax. Just add a little wax and rub into the chair until there is no ‘drag’ left. Your cloth should glide smoothly. And the more you buff, the more shine will appear. I hope this helps. 🙂
Hi Denise!
Love the end result
I painted one too and had the same results but don’t love my color, what paint brand and color did you use?
Thank you!
Dawn
Hi Dawn! I used General Finishes Cardamon Brown Chalk Style Paint.
Hi Denise
I know you only did 1 coat but do you spray the couch again with water before applying the second coat of chalk paint?
Hi Shereen! No, not needed.
I just finished painting my first chair and it turned out great. However, the wax I am struggling with. I have been told it goes a long way; but started applying and it’s not going very well. Looks like it is changing the color almost (it is clear Amy Howard wax) and also taking quite a bit for a very small section. What do I do??
Hi Keidre! I’ve never used Amy Howards Wax but some waxes do require a little more than others. Also, all waxes (when applied and rubbed in) will darken and deepen the colour of the paint. Hope this helps.
Hi, love the chair and want to try this technique this weekend. Do you apply both a clear wax and a black wax? I missed that in the instructions I guess. Thanks!
Hi Kelly! I just applied clear wax.
Can you use dark antiquing over clear wax. Have you tried it on painted fabric?
Hi Billie! I use dark antiquing wax over clear wax all the time on my painted furniture, but I’ve never tried it on painted fabric.
Great creative idea
Is the dresser next to the chair also done wchalk paint? If so do you know the shade of paint you used on it..I want to do an old cedar hope chest…
Hi Tina! The dresser next to the chair is painted with Milk Paint – full tutorial/colors used here. 🙂
The chair look fantastic! You inspirate me to chalk paint my furniture at my beach-house. Hope to have time to do it before December holiday. Thanks for all the tips! It can be very usefull.
So glad its sparked some ideas Elaine – and have fun painting furniture at your beach-house! 🙂
I absolutely love how you gave new life to this chair. I have a similar chair that has old, outdated upholstery. I was going to pay an exorbitant amount of money to reupholster it, but now you’ve inspired me to try painting it.
Glad it’s sparked some ideas Carol! And nothing lost by giving it a try right? If you’re not pleased with the end results or want to change it up down the road, it’s very easy to remove and reupholster. 🙂 Have fun, I’m sure it will look great! x
Have you tried painting over leather furniture? Wondering if chalk paint would work. Thanks
I have not Bev… so I’m not sure.
I have a leather top coffee table I painted with chalk paint. Looks great!
HI Sandy! Where did u get ur wax from and what’s its nam and how much did it cost you.
Thank you.
For this project I used TreWax (this wax here) which is super durable and cost efficient. If you’re not into buying online, they also sell it at hardware stores. Hope this helps. 🙂
Hi Denise,
Thanks for the tip!!!! Loved the chair!!! Can I paint a small velvety sofa with this techique?
Thanks!
Cris
Hi Cristina! I tried painting a velvety/velour fabric and it didn’t turn out at all unfortunately. Doesn’t mean it can’t be done, I’m just not sure how to get the best results with nappy fabric.
How much wax did you need ?
Very little. I didn’t measure but I’m guessing 1 -2 tablespoons of clear and not even half of that for the black wax.
Love the chair! Can you tell me how you finished the legs/wood parts? I apologize if I missed it in the comments somewhere.
Hi Sandy! I painted the frame with a few coats (I believe 2 or 3 coats if my memory serves me correctly) of General Finishes Bone White Chalk Paint. Then it was a combinations of wet distressing and a sanding to get the distressed look. Top coated with clear wax.
Just to be clear… You put the wax on/over the painted fabric is that correct?
Thanks!
Yes. 🙂