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 worked it’s magic and adhered beautifully.
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. This was one coat but gave great coverage. Two full coats would have been a full can I’m sure.
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!!! π
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! π
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. π
Happy Painting and have yourself a great day!
Denise x
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Christina Pearce says
If used on vinyl will the waxed chalk paint rub off over time?
Denise says
I’ve never painted a vinyl chair, but I’m guessing yes. If anyone has tried – feel free to chime in! π
Amber Hoch says
Thank you so much ! I snagged a chair for $5 that was dirty and faded. I used your guide and painted it in a mint color. It looks amazing! For any others needing help, I did 2 layers of half and half of folk art chalk paint with fabric softener and to get rid of brush strokes I did a layer of half water instead of fabric softener. (It was a navy color so mine took more paint.) In between each layer I sanded.
Denise says
Your mint painted chair sounds amazing Amber! Thanks for sharing and helping others who may like to try this. π
katie says
I did it. Dipping the brus in water after putting paint on the fabric was the key. The paint was so thick and water helped to spread. Soooo soft after sanding with 320 grit …I used rustoleum chalk paint from Home Depot. $16.99 vs $35 by Annie Sloan. Only 3 colors but I love the grey…u can also order online from homedepot.com
Wish I could post before and after pics
Thank u thank u thank u
Denise says
Amazing! Your persistence paid off. π I really appreciate you leaving your comments (including the issues you had) because I’m sure this will help someone down the line. Thank u Thank u Thank u Katie! So happy you love your chair. x
Jenny says
Katie, I was wondering if you used wax to seal the fabric as well. I plan on using this on a pretty well used piece of furniture and I don’t want wax on clothes or the piece to need wax sealed very often…
Katie says
I just painted a chair similar to yours with chalk paint made by Home Depot. A quart is only $16.99 vs Annie Sloan…..
The problem is this….parts show brush strokesπ’π’π’. I don t know if it s cuz the paint isn t as good as as expensive chalk paint
Any suggestions….? I love how it feels and looks pretty…..but brush strokes…..
Your chair looks stunning….love the brown and white
Katie says
I forgot to mention that I only use ” purdy ” brushes…..they are very good ones …the one I used is brand new
Thx a bunchβ€
Denise says
Thanks Katie! π Hmmm, Purdy brushes are nice so I wouldn’t think the applicator is the issue. I’ve never used Home Depot Chalk Paint so I don’t know how it applies/spreads, however maybe try thinning it some with water. This should get rid of any brush stroke problems.
Katie says
Ok, thx….I ll give it a shotβΌ
Elizabeth says
Has anyone tried chalk painting their Formica counter top/
Kristen says
Wow what a great finished product! I am in the finishing stage of painting a microfiber couch using DIY chalk paint with plaster of paris.. I have waxed one of 8 cushions using Minwax, but it is such a hard wax, do you by chance know of any softer waxes? I’m a newbie hoping for some seasoned advice π
Denise says
Hi Kristen! Yes, the softer ’boutique’ waxes like Annie Sloan or CeCe Caldwell are a more lard consistency and apply easier for sure. If using a harder Minwax, there are a few things you can do to soften it up for easier application. 1. Put a piece of the wax in cheesecloth and wrap it into a ball with your hand. This will warm/soften the wax and then you apply/rub the wax through the cheese cloth onto your piece. 2. Use a very small amount of Mineral Spirits to cut into the wax. This gives it a much softer consistency.
Missey says
Hello Denise,
You crafty lady!! I have the same problem as you… Not knowing my own style for my house, lol! However , from the aid of my Great Dane and a bottle of honey that he rescued from the kitchen cupboard and the artwork he left on an ottoman, I’m looking forward to trying the painting the furniture ??
First I have to figure out how to get the very sticky, thickly saturated honey out first. ?? any suggestions??
Denise says
Haha, my rescue Gidget leaves her own creativity (usually dirty paw marks) on my white couches. I feel lucky that I have easy-to-cleaned slip covers! For the honey, maybe try mixing dish detergent (Dawn is amazing – I use it in my studio for cleanup all the time) into a cup of warm water and dab and soak with a sponge. I’m guessing it should dissolve and hopefully not stain. Good luck Missey π
TexasGalsToo. says
1. LOVE the Chair Results, thank you for all the pictures! Personally on the fence- 2 very Antique Chairs that I was gifted f/ Great Grandma Nana. Hopefully later than sooner I will get the matching pieces.(sadly). BUT they are expensive & I sourced the Furniture Maker &yr w/style collection (they are very old & not cheap -perfect after 50plus yrs.). Fabric colors need updating Crushed light blue Velvet end rounded tea room chair & Corduroy velvet cream fabric mid-back rocker…..both extremely comfortable & perfect bedroom pieces if updated a bit!
DO I…? OR JUST TAKE TO THE ANTIQUES REPAIR SUGGESTED? For Re doing the Fabrics?
2. HONEY (ONE OF THE WORSE) Sticky & Soaks in – Depending on Colors in your couch. First See if the Natural SteamCleaning with the band tools will bring it out. PreSpray…. just slightly Dampen. Use HomeMade Cleaner – Stuff that WON’T HURT FABRICS like BAKING SODA which soaks up stuff – dampen area sprinkle rub finger in it to get down in fabric & then sprinkle more safest thing I’ve used on my green tweed ish plaid fabric (cleaning solution is W.vinegar. hydrogen peroxide & water with 2to4 spoons on baking soda & a squeeze or 2 of DAWN! I’ve used on white ish better carpet my green couch. ALL THE PETS STAINS! Sometimes I add some GAIN Fabricof softener in the water & this makes the Whole HOUSE smell heavenly! Sorry so Long =)
Denise says
Hello TexasGalsToo – thanks for the kind words on this tut. π 1. Re your perfect inherited expensive gifted Great Grandma’s antique chairs, just my 2cents, but if they are lovely antiques teamed with sentimental value, professional upholstering is the way to go. I had no attachment to this chair – it was curb shopped so it’s easy to be experimental. But if it had been a collectible piece handed down to me, I would have gone the fabric route. 2. Great advice on the honey – thank you. SI Readers are the best! I love that you offer your experiences and expertise to other commenters! π xo
Beth says
Did you wax the chair before you painted the fabric or after?
Denise says
Hi Beth! The wax gets applied AFTER you paint the fabric. π
TexasGalsToo. says
Can you touch up, like doing that second coat later down the road if needed ….if the wax is put on? Do you have to get the wax off somehow before touch -ups ?
Denise says
I haven’t tried this on fabric, but typically, chalk paints can be applied over a waxed surface for touch-ups or a change of color.
Susan m says
I appreciate your tutorial and your pictures! My 2 year old recently “updated” my light blue Ottoman with an orange marker. ? I was searching tutorials to recover it, but now I think I’m going to try painting it! If it turns out as well as your chair did, I will be pleased!
Denise says
Your 2 year old is a future furniture designer in training! π good luck Susan, I hope it turns out beautiful for you. π
Colette Heuvel says
I really liked this tutorial. It’s is very detailed and I liked the pictures attached. It makes me want to try this technique. I have a question though: will the wax not stain your clothes once you start using the chair after.
Denise says
Hi Colette! No, it’s very safe and will not stain clothing. π
Cindy says
I’ve picked up a fabric chair to paint but have one concern. How did you handle the tucked-in area where the fabric touches as the back of the seat meets the bottom of the back? I’m worried they will stick together as they dry.
Denise says
Hi Cindy! Where the back meets the seat, I separated the two as best I could and then painted. Nothing fancy. If the paint is watered down sufficiently, there will be no issues with them sticking together as they dry. π
Becky says
Hi
I have just managed to pick up a gorgeous little chair for a bargain price and you have inspired me to have a go with painting it.
Can I just ask if you know… If you are spraying the fabric prior to painting it do you continue to do this on subsequent coats of paint?
Looking forward to the challenge!
Denise says
I didn’t bother spraying the fabric, however it would be most beneficial on the first coat Becky. Subsequent coats – I made sure the paint was watered down sufficiently to ‘sink into’ the fabric. If the paint is too thick, it will just sit on the fabric and crack after drying.
Debra Marchand says
Hi, I just finished painting my 1st fabric chair last night. A girl in Michael’s told me to really soak the velvety fabric and to dilute the chalk paint by half and half. Today it is really streaky and stiff. Do I sand it now and then wet it again before using more diluted paint or just paint with the diluted product after sanding? I think I soaked it too much (it was dripping).
Denise says
Hi Debra! I have to be honest and say I may not be the person you want to ask about painting VELVETY fabric – evidence here! When I tried it turned out rock hard. So hard I wasn’t able to sand it and called it a day. What I can say, if I had used chalk paint on the velvet, yes, I would have sanded in between coats, and yes, I would have thinned the second coat with water. It’s best if the fabric is moist/damp but not soaking wet. Feel free to keep me updated. I’d love to hear how the velvet chair turns out. Maybe there’s a chance I can fix mine!
Deni says
Hi everyone, I paint furniture upholstery frequently and here’s a little trick you may want to try to keep your fabric soft. First, spritz your upholstery until it’s very wet, not dripping, but very wet and then paint on a 1st coat of watered down chalk paint. Let this dry (it may take a day or so). Then, mix your chalk paint 1/2 with FABRIC SOFTENER (I use Downey and pick a scent that’s not strong as the scent lasts a long time). You will need to continuously stir your Chalk Paint / Fabric Softener as you paint. If you need a 3rd coat, same thing, use the Chalk Paint/Fabric Softener mixture and you will find that your fabric will remain soft. On some pieces, a “blind” touch test can’t tell the difference between a fabric piece that’s already been painted and one that hasn’t. DON’T use wax or sand the piece afterwards if you use the chalk paint/fabric softener method.
Denise says
Thanks for sharing this Deni! Love your Watercolor Giclee btw. π
Corina says
Hi. I was wondering how your velvet fabric chair turned out? I was thinking of painting a velvet chair also and came across this. Thanks
Kim Conover says
I apologize if the answer is somewhere in the comments, but would like to know if you ever tried the diy chalk paint recipe on fabric, yet? I absolutely love how the chair turned out and I’m thinking I’ll do the chair cushions on my dining room chairs- easy enough to pop them off- but I have only used the diy chalk paint recipe on wood furniture- it has a beautiful creamy look to it (and see no reason to triple the cost of a project by buying a commercial chalk paint). And the color choices are only limited by your imagination. If you haven’t tried it yet, I guess I can always paint a scrap of similar fabric first but thought I’d ask.
Denise says
Hi Kim! I haven’t tried using DIY Chalky Paint on fabric yet but I’m looking forward to in the near future. If you beat me to it… I’d LOVE to hear your results. π
Teri says
Hi Denise! Love the chair and the encouragement to try something new! I can relate to feeling ‘stuck’ like you mentioned you didn’t even know what your style was anymore! We’re always evolving,right?
I have chalk painted an outdoor canvas table umbrella- it was faded red and I painted the outside (top) black. Easy, holding up at two months. I figure if I can get another year out of it b/c it’s mechanically ok, I’ll be happy! I used DIY chalk paint recipe w Plaster of Paris .
Denise says
What a brilliant project Teri and thanks for sharing your 2 month update! I have quite a few readers asking me how chalk paint (brand name & diy versions) hold up outdoors so this is great info. π
Deborah Wilson-Eppling says
Do you think this could work on a “fake” leather/vinyl chair & ottoman? Maybe need to rough them up a bit? LOL…got a vision of tough he-men roughin’ things up!
Both of my pieces are maroon in color. Thanks, you are AMAZING! My most fave blogger, you inspire us all out here!
Denise says
Thanks so much Deborah!!!x And yes, you can definitely paint vinyl and/or leather with chalk paint. I haven’t tried painting leather yet, but I’ve seen quite a few bloggers do it with nice looking results. And if you don’t want to use chalk paint, Home Depot, Lowes and Amazon sells a Rust-oleum Spray Paint specially formulated for vinyls. It’s made to be super flexible so there is no cracking or peeling. I don’t even think you need to call in the “he-men” when using either of these…LOL ;):)
Melidy says
I love love love it!!! I so have a chair or 3 I’m going to try now π love that chair and btw if you ever are looking to give it away…. I’ll be sure to volunteer to take it π love your page!!!
Bri says
Did you put wax over the entire painted surface or just around the seams and edges? I’m painting a similar granny chair today! Thanks!
Denise says
Hi there Bri! The entire chair was wax – wood – fabric – the whole shebang. Have fun with your granny chair! π
Tonia says
Could you use poly acrylic top coat instead of waxing? I have Miss Lillians satin luster. Thanks !!
Denise says
Hmmm, I haven’t heard of any poly products being used to seal painted fabrics – only wax. However, I’m not familiar with this product so I couldn’t say Tonia.
Susan Nauman says
I loved reading your post. You have inspired me to paint the chair in my husband’s office. Thanks for the inspiration! Your chair looks great!
Denise says
Thanks Susan…and good luck with your husband’s office chair!
Kim says
Can u use wood furniture wax over the fabric? I love your chair i have to chairs i would love to paint.thanks for sharing
Denise says
Yes Kim. I used Trewax which is a wax typically used on floors and furniture. π
Debbie says
Look what you did with the chair. Love the color of the chest in the picture. What color paint did you use? Beautiful job.
Debbie
Denise says
Thanks Debbie! And here’s more info on the milk painted stencilled chest of drawers. It was painted in Niagara Green. π
Christine says
Fab fab fab! I googled painting fabric with chalk paint and you popped up. Loving the chair. I have been thinking of using chalk paint on 2 dark green covered director’s chairs. Now you have given me the confidence and the ‘how to’ to go ahead and try it. Thank you
Denise says
Oh I’m so glad you’re inspired to give it a try Christine! Best of luck and I’d love to hear how the directors chairs turn out for you. π
jessie M says
Hi Denise! I am in the middle of painting chairs now. As far as waxing goes after you’re finished painting..Do you think it matters what kind of wax you use? I bought some, but then also saw wax that goes along with the chalk paint. The one I bought is just all purpose wax. ( I don’t remember the name of it.)Should I exchange it for the wax that goes with the chalky paint? Thanks!
Your chair is so stinkin cute by the way. π
Denise says
I’ve used many brands Jessie – Minwax – Trewax – CeCe Caldwell – Annie Sloan. So long as it’s a sealing protecting wax, you should be fine. π
Kristel Sadoski says
This is EXACTLY the information that I was looking for! I trash picked 2 matching wing chairs from my neighbor. I tried fitting them with SureFit slip covers but they never fit right. My husband wants to get rid of the “old fashioned” chairs, but I love them. They were hardly used, excellent condition. I am going to give painting them a go!
Denise says
I bet they’re going to look great Kristel… and hopefully your hubby will be pleasantly surprised with the painted outcome too! I’m still really pleased with mine. π
kathleen hunter says
Hi Denise, I’ve seen where people spray water on the chair before painting. I’ve also seen how they’ll water down the paint. think I’d like to try it your way since it looks so easy. How wet did you have the paint brush before you dipped it in the paint? I think I’m going to try it with a fabric paint added to the chalk paint. Do you think that would also work and if so, how much fabric paint do you think I should add? Or is there just a fabric additive (not paint) on the market that you know about. As always, beautiful work and you’ve inspired me to paint quite a few pieces of furniture with my own DIY chalk paint.
Denise says
Hi Kathleen! My brush was pretty wet. I dipped it into the water container then slightly removed excess water on the side of the container and immediately dipped it into the paint. As for the textile mediums, there are many that work when mixed with water based paints. Plaid, Delta and Liquitex can be found at local craft stores and even Walmart. Having said this, I’m not sure how this would work when mixing it in with Chalk Paints because I’ve never tried. ps-so happy you’re enjoying the DIY chalky recipes. π
njjjjh says
In searching chalk paint I stumbled on your granny chair project. Lovely, just lovely. My style exactly! I am about to paint a bathroom vanity. Presently white, solid wood. Carrera marble top. Thinking a medium gray to coordinate with marble. Would chalk paint be suitable for this project? It will be splashed and dripped on…….look forward to your expert reply. Thank you in advance.
Denise says
Many people use chalk type paints to paint kitchen cupboards or bathroom vanities – so YES you definitely can. The key is to seal and protect it properly. Having said this, using a chalk paint for kitchen or bathroom cabinets that will endure a ton of heat, water, and heavy-duty use is not MY preference. I would prefer to use a paint that is specifically designed for these high traffic areas. (Pick a reputable paint store ie SW or BM where the staff can help you pick the right product for your bathroom cabinets) It may be a little more work from the get go – ie sanding/prime, but it will be super tough, easy to clean, and last for years.
Amy Dietz says
Denise,
You NEVER disappoint! I stand by my very first comment on your blog a couple/few years ago; you are THE BEST by far. You are so “real” and I think this is one of your most endearing qualities ( for me at least). Not to mention, the time you take to give the best tutorials, tips, and all; this is no small feet and you are so appreciated by so many.
Kindest of regards,
Amy D,
Denise says
That is so kind of you to say Amy!!! <3 Having friends like you who have continuously popped in to share idea's, thoughts, questions, comments...or even just to say 'hi' seriously touches my heart. This blog would be NO FUN without you! x
Sally Davis says
Hi Denise! I’m Andrea’s “sister-in-law”. Your painted fabric chair is stunning! Denise told me about it today because I have a retro dining set that I was dreading reupholstering. Now I can just paint it!!! You make it sound so easy. Love your style and talent. You’re well on your way to your goal of being famous artist!
Sally
Denise says
Hiya Sally! Thanks!!! I’m super impressed with how this chair turned out too… and so far so good with me sitting on it! Thanks so much for stopping by and hope everything at the cottage is going well. π
Trish says
I am just wondering if you have painted any fabric with your home made chalk paint? And would you would recommend doing so? Thanks
Denise says
I haven’t tried yet Trish. Some of my SI Readers have used the Calcium Carbonate DIY Chalk Paint Recipe and have reported back saying it works great.
Marilyn Parigian says
I painted some thrift store pillows with a mixture of aqua colors in homemade chalk paint. They were patterned and required two coats. They are on an outdoor wicker sofa on the front porch and have held up extremely well. Now you have me inspired…I am looking at a curbside-find chair that has been repainted in metallics. Recovered the seat in a remnant that needs a new life.
Denise says
I’m so happy to hear the Homemade Chalk Paint worked well for you Marilyn. I’m going to use a DIY version on a wing chair in my office! Good luck with your chair and your paintings are amazing btw. π
Jaana Flaherty says
Hi Denise,
You did a remarkable job. I’ve always been curious too, how the texture and feel would be afterwards. I really haven’t researched it at all, so that was interesting (and made sense) that you need to dampen the fabric, or as you did, wet the brush. I have a love seat that is being donated to me for my ministry. I’m wondering if I should paint it for this young girl I’m going to give it too. I wonder if the texture of the fabric makes all the difference too in how it feels afterwards. Anyway, remarkable and beautiful job, and that dresser next to it is gorgeous too. π
Jaana
Tess S. says
Denise- I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS CHAIR!!!! You did such wonderful work! It’s beautiful! You say it’s not “perfect” but I say it is! I really like it and it encourages me to try painting fabric now. Good job!!!
Denise says
Thanks so much Tess!!! x
Catherine Brasset says
Bravo,very nice as usual Denise ! What scares me, not having a still hand , is to make a mess on either the cloth part or the wood part ,did you use painters tape on the white painted wood not to get brown on it ,also have you ever put painters tape on just dried chalk paint ? or even after the waxing ? ( Not peeling the paint off ).
Do you think doing a crackle effect would keep paint covered chairs from crackling since it would not pull so much ?
Thank you for your help .
I think just one layer as you did (when possible )would make for a softer feel .
Denise says
Catherine, I didn’t bother masking off. I did get the Bone White on the fabric… and then just painted over it with the darker brown. But if you’re worried about a steady hand and being neat, using painters tape would be the way to go. I’ve never had a problem with just-dried-chalk-paint peeling off. As for the crackle effect, I would only use it if you wan’t the fabric to look cracked… not as a preventive measure. From what I’ve read, this painted fabric hold up pretty well! π
Catherine Brasset says
Thank you Denise !
Melody says
Wow it turned out great. I have a step stool I’ve been wanting to try & paint. I think I’ll now give it a go, thanks for always sharing and the detail/tips that you give.
Denise says
My pleasure Melody. Your step stool sounds like a perfect project to try this on! Feel free to let me know how it goes for you. π
ellen riester says
I like the way you can still see the pattern so I think not loading it down with paint worked to your advantage well done for your first attempt
Denise says
I kind of like the hint of pattern in it too! π
Julia says
What a stunning chair makeover! Brown is nowhere in my house, but this might change for a chair I am considering painting. Your chair makeover looks so “classy”.
Denise says
Thank you Julia! Funny that you mention the brown. When I received this Cardamom Brown from General Finishes I thought, hmmmmm, I can’t picture myself using this color on a piece of furniture. For sale OR for myself! Now I’m so glad I tried something new!
Tania says
Hi Denise, even though I have reservations about it being an old used chair and not new coverings, the chair looks fabulous! I’m really surprised at how supple it looks. I thought it would be be stiff. I might have a go on something I own that needs a new look. At least if it is my own it will be my muck and dust. ?
Denise says
Yes, our own muck and dust feels safer doesn’t it! π I’m not so sure what your hubby will think about this ‘cheating’ though…lol. I really appreciate you opening up that conversation on the last post… great points Tania! x
Charlotte says
Oh my goodness….I LOVE the chair. I had one that looked exactly like yours….I didn’t want to spend money to have it recovered so I gave it away. After seeing your amazing chair, I want my chair back. Thanks for sharing.
Denise says
I see these chairs in thrift stores and on craigslist. I bet you’ll come across another one Charlotte…and thank you! π
Pamela says
In true Denise style! Stunning !!!
anita says
Your chair is quite a stunning piece, but then all your furniture is! I appreciate your honesty in sharing your experiences. I have been wanting to paint an outdoor cushion on a church pew on my front porch. The porch is covered, but it still receives some effects from the weather. Only our dog will be sitting on the painted cushion since this is “his pew.” Would I need an outdoor sealer for protection? Thanks in advance for your response.
Denise says
Hmmm, I don’t think so Anita. If the pillow will be under a covered porch (along with your church pew and sweet dog…love this!)- I’m guessing it would probably be okay. However, if you don’t want to take the chance, there is a product “Fabric Spray Paint” made specially for outdoor/patio furniture cushions. I’m curious to try this product on my old patio cushions this summer!
Donna says
It looks absolutely awesome, and I love the way you have it with the stenciled chest! Thanks for all that you share with us.
Phoebe says
Denise,
She’s beautiful! As I was taking in all your wonderful tips and directions you really had my attention when you mentioned you’d really like to try a DIY chalk paint next time. Gosh, I’m sure many of us are hanging on to hear all about that. Those cans of ready made get costly.
Well, I’m ready to tackle a victim … I’m on the hunt!
Denise says
Seek and you shall find Phoebe! And yes, I’ll definitely let you know if I use a DIY version. π
Chez says
Love, love, love !!
I reupholstered the last chair I did and it was tedious. I have another to do and had the exact same question about how painted fabric “feels” & if it cracks. Now just gonna go ahead and give it a whirl! Great job Denise π & Thanks as always for your great tutorials.
Denise says
Thanks Chez and impressive that you know how to reupholster! I’d love to give that a try! I’ll keep you posted if it cracks with time/use. I know a few other bloggers who have posted updates on their painted fabric and it sounds like it holds up quite well… but we’ll see.
Jenn says
So wonderful! I am very impressed. I can’t believe this transformation.
Denise says
Thanks Jenn… I’m pretty impressed with how it turned out too! π
Ashley says
I’ve been waiting for this reveal…I was confident that you would be honest with your own opinions too π I’ve been seriously wanting to makeover a chair this way but I’m still on the search for one. Thanks so much for the great pics/tips/and thoughts, it is a stunner!!!
Denise says
I really hope you find a chair you can try this on Ashley. And when you do, I’m sure you’ll do a knock-out job with it!
Renee Meyer says
You did a fabulous job on this chair. Love the way it turned out. I have one that is very similar but has a floral pattern and the upholstery is in great shape. I’m thinking I would need two coats. Would you have painted a second coat the same way? (dipping brush in water then paint) Also how long does the wax need to dry before sitting in the chair?
Denise says
Thanks Renee!:) Yes, I would have painted the second coat the same way. Another option would be to add water to the paint and then apply the second coat… and I let the wax dry for 24hrs before I planted my bottom. π
Tracy says
Sigh! I don’t think we’ll ever see the day you do an ugly piece! This turned out beautifully. You’re a brave woman! I don’t blame you for keeping this piece.
Denise says
Tracy, if I ever DO an ugly piece – please don’t tell me its ugly…lol. ;););) Your comments keep me smiling. x
Monique says
Hi Denise. Your granny chair turned out beautifully! Wow! Do you think this paint could be used for fabric throw pillows? They are mostly just decoration and not used much. Also, do you think it would work for different types of fabric? (I’m thinking of velvet). Thanks for all your fun and interesting blogs. Can’t wait to see what you do next.
Denise says
Thank you Monique! x One of my FB followers mentioned painting fabric works the very best on flat fabrics – but I’ve seen tutorials that have painted velvet fabric and pillows and it looks amazing. Stenciling the pillows or fabric to add extra detail is also another great option!
Seets says
Thank u heaps for your post. U answered all my questions about how long to let it dry n if the texture feels weird. I’ve finally painted my throw pillows! My hubby thought it was weird but then he joined in.
I’m stencilling it with gold spray paint after the paint dries then I’ll give it a wax. I only finished the painting part today.
One question though. The paint I used is water based and these pillows are for my balcony. If the rain hits the pillows, will the paint start to run n get on my clothes when I lean on them? It won’t get socked wet as the balcony is fully covered on the top. But u know what I mean, with s strong wind the pillows can get a little damp.
Denise says
So glad you’ve found this post helpful. π Once your pillows are 100% dry, wax coated and cured, you should have no worries re- running paint. Sounds like a great project!
Laura says
Beautiful Job! I have an ottoman I want to do, but haven’t decided what color yet. Your combination is lovely!
Denise says
Thanks Laura – and best of luck with your ottoman project!
Rosemary says
Rosemary
Thank you for sharing! I’ve been hesitant to try painting fabric, but I’m going to now. Your chair looks great!
Denise says
Oh good…glad this post helped you take the plunge Rosemary! I’m sure you’ll love the results!
Marty says
Wow. Looks great. Let us know if/when you use the do-it-yourself chalk paint please.
Denise says
I will do that Marty…and thank you!
Wendy says
I found this beautiful Ethan Allen couch at a local thrift store. It is a denim like pink. Which is not my color. I don’t know how to upholster a lo seat, so this seems like a great idea. The loves at is $40 so it’s not a big lost. What do you think?
Denise says
Hi Wendy! If you love the couch but not the color (and not going reupholster anyway) I think this painting the pink denim is a fabulous idea! It’s been almost 6 month since I’ve painted my ‘granny’ chair and I’m still loving it and the paint has held up perfectly. π