If you are here, you are researching how to paint wooden chairs the easy & right way. After a couple of chair makeovers, I can say with certainty that this is the absolute best method for painting chairs that I have come upon.
I recently found a charming set of wooden chairs on the marketplace
for just $30. The natural wood was beautiful but I knew I’d need to paint them
to get the sleeker look of modern that I wanted.
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I have used good old spray paint on chairs in the past &
while that works, it can be difficult to get an even coat. You are also limited
in color selection. So this time around I took to the internet to find the best
way to paint chairs and found that the best success was being had with a paint
sprayer.
We have needed one of these so many times in the past but
have never invested in one. This was the perfect opportunity & and I could
not be more pleased with the final product. The result is so smooth, sleek &
professional looking. If you are interested in an Office Chair read it.
Choosing the Right Paint and Tools
When embarking on a chair-painting project the 1st crucial
decision is selecting the right paint. Opt for a high-quality durable paint
suitable for wood surfaces. Additionally, gather essential tools such as
sandpaper, painter is tape, brushes & a drop cloth to protect your
workspace.
Preparing the Chairs
Before applying any paint proper preparation is key. Clean
the chairs thoroughly to remove dust, grime, or any existing finish. Repair any
cracks or imperfections ensuring a smooth surface for the new paint to adhere
to.
Sanding and Priming
To achieve a flawless finish dedicate time to sanding the
chairs. This not only smoothens the surface but also enhances paint adhesion.
Following sanding apply a suitable primer to create a base for the paint
ensuring better durability and longevity.
Selecting the Perfect Color
Choosing the right color is a personal touch that can
elevate your chairs. Consider existing color scheme of your space & select
a shade that complements it. Don not be afraid to experiment with bold or
subtle colors to express your style.
Painting Techniques
Whether you prefer brushing or spraying each technique has
its advantages. Brushing allows for better control and precision while spraying
provides a more even coat. Experiment with both methods to find what suits your
skills and preferences.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Learn from common mistakes others make when painting chairs.
Avoid issues like uneven coats, drips, or inadequate drying time by following
our comprehensive guide.
Supplies Needed:
- Paint Sprayer – This one is highly rated and beloved. Worked wonder.
- Drop Cloths (buy the cheap plastic ones from Home Depot)
- Sander, Deglosser, or Sandpaper
- Hundard Grit Sandpaper Discs (if using an electric sander)
- Paint
- Protective Top Coat
- Measuring cup filled with water
- Extension cord if you will be working a short distance from an outlet and need more length
- Face Mask
- And obviously paint can opener & paint stick
STEP 1 – 1st Remove Cushions from Dining Chairs
If your chairs have seats OR cushions remove them 1st. Most
can be easily un done via screws underneath seat itself.
STEP 2 – Clean Dining Chairs
Next you will want to give the chairs a really good cleaning
to remove any dirt, grime, sticky residue & even the glossy finish already
on the chairs from paint, stain, etc. Any deglosser product will work I
vigorously scrubbed my chairs down with Krud Cutter Prepaint Cleaner & a
sponge.
STEP 3 – Scuff Sand Dining Chairs
When painting chairs it really is not necessary to sand them
completely down to bare wood. While you certainly can all the extra prep (and
super tedious) sanding is not quite worth the time when you are going to
re-apply high quality primer and paint on top.
Use 80 grit sandpaper to rough up the original finish & then wipe the chairs clean of all sanding dust using water & a clean microfiber rag.
STEP 4 – Prime Dining Chairs
Once sanded & clean place your chairs (upside-down) on
plastic tarps for painting. If you have the space & availability to set up
a painting tent. I recommend it. Once positioned give your chairs a thorough
coating of shilac-base primer working from all angles to get every leg,
crevice, spindle & edge. When dry about 30 to 45 minutes flip chairs over
and coat the remaining surfaces in more primer.
STEP 5 – Sand Primer to smooth finish
Zinsser primers are known for their excellent coverage and
quick drying times; but, they may leave your furniture feeling grit-filled. Use
a 220 grit sanding block on all of the chair's surfaces to make them smooth.
Wipe them again with a clean microfiber towel after sanding them, since this
will generate a lot of dust.
STEP 6 – Paint Chairs with a Paint Sprayer
After applying two layers of priming and thoroughly washing
and sanding the chairs, they are now (at last) prepared for painting.There
should be directions on the can for using it with a paint sprayer; follow them
in addition to the instructions on your specific paint sprayer. Usually, this
entails choosing the appropriate tips and angle for your specific job, as well
as loading the sprayer with paint.
Next, apply extremely thin coats of paint to every curve of
the chairs. I began once again with every chair turned upside down. We turned
them over and sprayed the fronts after the proper drying time had passed. To
guarantee complete covering on all sides, I advise you to recognize and adhere
to the same pattern on each chair.
STEP 7 – Sand (as needed) & Paint (again)
Re-coating this paint takes 4 to 8 hours (maybe longer if
the weather is humid). Little drips will practically level out without any
effort on your side thanks to this extended drying period, which is precisely
what enables the paint to settle into a good smooth surface. However, applying
numerous coats to the chairs in a single day becomes challenging because to the
extended drying period.
STEP 8 – Add a Top Protective Coat (as needed)
Depending on the type of paint you use you may want to add a
protective top coat (such as a spray polycrylic or wax).
I chose to skip sealer because I was totally over these
chairs of high-quality paint we chose. 5 months in we do not have any nicks
yet. If you do want to add poly coat I personally like this spray or this wax.
STEP 9 – Give Chairs Full Cure Time
Although paint can be re-coated in 4 to 8 hours I always
like to give my furniture pieces a few days to cure before we move them into house
for normal everyday use. While not required this will ensure paint does not get
any nicks or scratches from still being a bit too soft especially if your
climate is humid.
STEP 10 – Re-cover Cushions (if applicable)
While your chair paint is drying and curing re-cover the
cushions in fresh fabric (if applicable). Below is how our chair cushions
looked after we removed original fabric.
Years of use really flattened cushions. Since chairs were
sitting a smidge lower than we liked we chose to replace all the foam with
fresh 2 inches foam from a local upholstery shop.
STEP 11 – Re-assemble & Re-place Your 'New' Chairs
With the chairs fully cured & the cushions freshly
wrapped all that is left to do is screw the seats into place & put your
chairs back around your table to use and enjoy.
Conclusion
Painting wooden chairs is a rewarding DIY project that
allows you to unleash your creativity. Follow our guide for a step-by-step
process that guarantees stunning results. Your chairs will not only look
fabulous but also become a reflection of your unique style.
Is it necessary to sand wooden chairs before painting?
Yes, sanding is crucial for a smooth finish & better
paint adhesion.
Can I use any type of paint for wooden chairs?
No, choose a high-quality paint specifically designed for
wood surfaces.
How long should I wait between coats of paint?
Follow the recommended drying times on paint can for optimal
results.
What's the best way to add a distressed look to painted chairs?
Lightly sand the edges & corners after painting to
achieve a distressed effect.
Can I paint over varnished chairs?
Yes, but proper sanding & priming are essential for paint adhesion.