Keep The Upholstery Intact: Paint Your Chair In 5 Steps

Painting upholstery is a budget-friendly way to give old furniture a new lease of life. It can be a daunting task, especially if you want to keep the upholstery soft and comfortable. The key to success lies in preparation and technique. It is important to clean the fabric thoroughly and ensure it is free from dust and debris before starting. When painting, use light, even coats and allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Depending on the colour and fabric, you may need to apply multiple coats. To keep the upholstery soft, it is crucial to use the right type of paint and avoid applying too much, as this can cause the paint to seep into the cushions, making them soggy and uncomfortable. With the right approach, you can achieve stunning results and transform your furniture into personalised masterpieces.

Choose the right fabric

Choosing the right fabric is crucial for achieving the desired results when painting a chair while keeping the upholstery. It is recommended to select a smooth fabric that is durable and can withstand some "abuse." Avoid fabrics that are thin or delicate, such as velvet, as they may not hold up well to the painting process. Heavily textured fabrics should also be approached with caution, as they can require more work and attention during the painting process.

It is important to consider the absorbency of the fabric. Different types of fabrics will absorb paint differently, so it is advisable to test the paint on an inconspicuous spot before starting the project. This will allow you to adjust the ratio of water to paint and achieve the desired consistency and coverage. Play around with the mixture until you find the right balance for your chosen fabric.

When selecting a fabric, opt for one that complements the colour and design of your chair. Consider the existing colour palette of the chair and choose a paint colour that will enhance it. If you desire a more subtle look, choose a paint colour that is similar to the original fabric colour. However, if you wish to make a bold statement, select a contrasting or vibrant colour.

The condition of the fabric is also an important consideration. Ensure that the fabric is clean and free from dust, dirt, or debris before painting. Use a vacuum or a lint roller to remove any particles from the surface. If the fabric is heavily soiled, consider using a product like Dixie Belle BOSS to treat the affected areas and prevent bleed-through.

Additionally, take into account the purpose of the chair. If it is a decorative piece that will be used occasionally, you may have more flexibility in your fabric choice. However, if it is a chair intended for regular use, such as an armchair for lounging, prioritise comfort and durability in your fabric selection.

By carefully considering these factors and choosing the right fabric, you can achieve successful results when painting a chair while keeping the upholstery intact.

Prepare the chair

Preparing your chair is a crucial step in achieving the best results when painting upholstery. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare your chair for painting:

Firstly, ensure your work area is well-ventilated, and lay down a drop cloth or newspapers to protect the surrounding area from paint drips and spills. Then, remove any removable parts of the chair, such as the seat cushion or backrest, if possible. This will make it easier to work on the chair and prevent paint from getting on these removable parts. Cover the remaining parts of the chair that you do not want to paint with painter's tape or plastic sheeting.

Next, clean the upholstery fabric thoroughly. Use a vacuum to remove dust, dirt, and debris from the fabric and cushions. You can also use a lint roller to pick up any lingering dust particles. It is important to ensure the fabric is as clean as possible before painting to achieve the best results.

Once the fabric is clean, you may need to apply a primer or a product like Dixie Belle BOSS to prevent paint bleed-through and cover any soiled areas. This step is especially important if your chair has a darker fabric or a bright pattern that you want to cover effectively. Allow the primer or BOSS to dry completely before proceeding.

Now, it's time to test your paint consistency and colour. Mix your chosen paint with water, following the manufacturer's instructions or experimenting with ratios until you achieve the desired consistency. Test the paint on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to ensure you are happy with the colour and coverage. This step is crucial, as different fabrics will absorb paint differently, and you want to ensure a consistent result.

Finally, prepare your tools. Gather your paintbrushes, rollers, or sprayers, and ensure they are suitable for the type of paint you are using. If you are using multiple colours or intricate designs, prepare your tools accordingly, so you don't have to interrupt your painting flow.

With these preparation steps complete, you are now ready to begin painting your chair!

Select your paint

Selecting the right paint is crucial to achieving the desired results when painting a chair while keeping the upholstery. Here are some important considerations and steps to guide you through the process:

Choose the Right Type of Paint

Chalk paint is a popular choice for painting upholstery as it can be applied directly to the fabric without the need for a primer. It is known for its ease of use and ability to cover imperfections. However, when using chalk paint, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Most manufacturers suggest applying chalk paint sparingly in thin coats to avoid cracking and flaking. You can mix chalk paint with water to achieve the desired consistency, usually a ratio of one part water to one part paint.

Select a Suitable Colour

When choosing a paint colour, consider the current colour and print of your chair's upholstery. If you have a chair with a darker fabric or a bright pattern, you may need to select a darker paint colour or plan to apply multiple coats for adequate coverage. Keep in mind that each type of fabric will absorb paint differently, so it is advisable to test the paint on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Prepare the Upholstery

Before painting, ensure the upholstery is clean and free from dust and debris. Use a vacuum or a lint roller to remove any dirt or dust from the fabric. If there are any soiled areas, pre-treat them with a suitable product, such as Dixie Belle BOSS, to prevent bleed-through and odours.

Seal the Paint (Optional)

After painting, you may consider sealing the fabric to protect your work and enhance its durability. You can use a clear wax, such as Dixie Belle Wax, to seal painted upholstery. Alternatively, you can opt for a polycrylic sealer, which offers long-lasting protection and resists yellowing. Another option is to "heat seal" the paint by placing the painted chair in direct sunlight for a few hours.

Apply the paint

Before you start painting, make sure to vacuum the upholstery or use a lint roller to remove any dust or dirt. You should also cover or tape off any areas of the chair that you don't want to be painted. If you're using chalk paint, mix one part paint with one part water to achieve the right consistency. For other types of paint, you may need to adjust the ratio, so it's a good idea to test it on an inconspicuous spot first.

When you're ready to start painting, work quickly to avoid dry lines. Apply the paint in steady strokes with a wide paintbrush, making sure to follow the direction of the fabric's texture if it has one. Depending on the colour and type of fabric, you may need to apply two or more coats of paint. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. If you're painting a highly detailed design, use a sanding block or fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the paint between coats.

If you're using a transfer, apply it to the fabric after the final coat of paint has dried. Remove a small part of the backing at a time and lightly burnish (rub) the transfer onto the fabric as you slowly roll the backing away. Once the transfer is completely applied, you can finish any remaining detail work and then seal the fabric.

To seal the paint, you can use a product like polycrylic or wax. Polycrylic is known for its long-lasting durability and non-yellowing properties, while wax can be a good option for painted leather upholstery. If you're using wax, you can either apply it directly to the fabric or use the "heat seal" method by placing the chair in the sun for a few hours.

Seal the chair

Sealing the chair is an important step in the painting process. It ensures that your hard work is protected and can increase the longevity of your newly painted chair.

Firstly, you will need to decide on a sealant. There are a few options available, each with its own pros and cons. Polycrylic is a popular choice, as it offers long-lasting durability and does not have a yellowing effect. Wax is another option and is often used on painted leather upholstery. However, it is important to note that wax may not be suitable for all fabric types and can affect the final colour or texture.

Before sealing, it is essential to ensure that the chair is thoroughly cleaned. Use a vacuum to remove any dust or debris, and pay particular attention to the fabric and cushions. You can also use a lint roller to ensure the surface is free from any lint or hair.

When sealing the fabric, it is recommended to use minimal water to avoid a soggy cushion. You only need enough water to help the paint spread and seep into the surface of the fabric. This will help you achieve that nice, soft upholstery finish.

If you are sealing a detailed design or pattern, it is advisable to use a sanding block or fine-grit sandpaper (around 3000 grit) to avoid sanding off your intricate work.

Finally, allow the sealant to dry completely before using your chair. This may take a few hours or even overnight, depending on the product and the manufacturer's instructions.

Frequently asked questions