Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover (Chalk Paint)

|
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see disclosures here.

Painting upholstery can bring new life to your furniture. This painted upholstered chair does not even look like the same piece!

Guess what?

I did another painted upholstered chair…..with Chalk Paint.
Why not?

You can change the look so completely…so easily.
(If you follow me on Instagram you’ve already seen little snippets of this chair awhile back as I was painting it )

Want to see some of these projects in “live” time? Hop on over and follow along with me on INSTAGRAM. I’m always sharing in my stories as I’m doing projects, finding new furniture, fun finds….just all the day to day behind the scenes.

Here is is “BEFORE”….

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair artsychicksrule.comSO Easy! Don't love it? Paint it with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint! artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #paintingupholstery #paintedfabric

And now…

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair artsychicksrule.comSO Easy! Don't love it? Paint it with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint! artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #paintingupholstery #paintedfabric

It was a ‘throwaway’ at the Habitat Re-store. They had a bunch so I took one home with me.

This chair was a little colonial for my decor but in very good shape.
The last chair I painted white and used Minwax PolyShades on the legs and wood trim.

You can see that chair —> here.
It’s a favorite of mine!

This time I decided to paint the wood along with the fabric.

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover - White Legs - artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #diy

I wanted to keep it bright and cheery. It’s going into my study/office/craft room.

It will be the chair I sit in and blog from. :)
I can’t show you it there just yet since I’m working on creating that space.
But you get an idea of where I’m going with the room from the chair anyway.

It took about 2 coats of paint with a touch here and there. I used a blend of Pure White and Duck Egg Blue Chalk Paint.
Heavy on the Pure White. I mixed a little water in it so it would soak into the fabric better.
I also misted the dry fabric before painting.
(Edited to add: You want the paint to “soak in” not lay on top of the fabric. If it it too thick (not watered down enough) it will lay on top and be more prone to cracking. I love this option for redoing furniture but I would not recommend this on pieces of furniture you use extensively (like a Family Room couch, for example) Also, some fabrics will work better for this than others. Some will hold up better than others. So do a spot test beforehand if you are unsure.)

I’m not going to go through all the steps since I’ve done that on another post—he chair I linked above.
You can see more details there.

But here it is with the second coat going on….

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover - second coat - artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #diy (2)

…just to get an idea of coverage.
Kinda cool, huh?

I decided to go back and paint all the cording/trim white to give it some “pop”.

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover - Painting Trim with White - artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #diy (4)

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover - Painting Trim - artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #diy (3)

And as you can see in the first picture I posted….I added a stencil. (this one >>> Stencil)
It’s the same stencil I used on these night stands –>here.

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover - Stenciled Design - artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #diy

I used some very fine sandpaper and slightly distressed it. (actually, I went over the entire chair very lightly with the sandpaper to soften it a bit) I sealed the chair, wood and all, with Annie Sloan Clear wax.
One coat and then buffed. (once it dried)

A few close ups for ya….

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover - Detail Up Close - artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #diy

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover - Finished Detail Up Close - artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #diy

The back ….

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover - Back View - artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #diy

The side…

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair Makeover - Side View - artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #diy

I love how feminine, soft and sweet it looks with the pale blue, white and stencil.
Perfect for the direction I’m going in my office!

Want to know about 26 other chalk style paints?
I’ve got the low down for you right here! >>> 26 Types of Chalk Style Paint For Furniture

Can’t wait to finish in there.

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair artsychicksrule.comSO Easy! Don't love it? Paint it with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint! artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #paintingupholstery #paintedfabric

So what do you think? –> a painted upholstered chair…am I’m crazy for painting an upholstered chair? hah maybe!

But it works. And it’s a great (inexpensive) way to completely transform your furniture…upholstered or not.

I love a good transformation…and I’d say this is a pretty good one.
I think so anyway. ;)

BE SURE TO PIN THIS FOR LATER!! :)

Chalk Painted Upholstered Chair artsychicksrule.comSO Easy! Don't love it? Paint it with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint! artsychicksrule.com #paintedupholstery #chalkpaint #paintingupholstery #paintedfabric

So there it is. Another Chalk Painted upholstered chair makeover.

Love paint? Want more tips, ideas & inspiration? Don't miss a thing! Click here now! artsychicksrule.com

Have you tried painting any fabric with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint before?
A pillow, chair, curtain panel…anything?
If you have, I’d love to hear about it and how it went for you!

I’ll be sharing this fun makeover next!

UPDATE!! You can see it now, here!

Want to see even more furniture makeovers? Click here.

Signature for Blogsmall

Get the “behind the scenes” and more when you follow along with me on Instagram!
PLUS be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss any new projects or products I’m sharing! 
Click here –> Yes, I’d like to join.

 


142 Comments

  1. Hi, nice chair. I tried the same method with a brown leather sofa. Followed all the steps. Three months later, it is a shambles. Wax and paint has peeled off, looks very patchy. Had to right-off the furniture. I think this method of using chalk paint is suitable for a piece of furniture not used much. Day to pieces just don’t stand up to wear and tear.

    1. Hi Cassie!
      Sorry that it didn’t work out for you!! Time will tell with my chairs, I suppose. :) This chair will be a true test as I’ll sit in it every day to blog. The other chair I’ve done only gets sat in occasionally. One thing though, the paint actually soaks into fabric fibers, etc whereas it most likely just sat on top of the leather without being able to soak in. I can tell you, the pillows I painted for my screened porch have held up beautifully (https://www.artsychicksrule.com/2013/06/chalk-painted-porch-pillows-annie-sloan.html). I painted them last year and they’ve been outside the whole year. We sit “on” them all the time. Still look as good as the day I did them. I hope my chairs will hold up the same!
      I do think some fabrics grab the paint better than others though!
      Nancy

      1. This is stunning! I have a chenille covered armchair that I am going to try and do this to. Do you think it will be ok? Not too ‘furry’? Xx

        1. Thanks!

          Hmm, I’m not really sure. I haven’t done anything that has raised nap or “furry”. I am not sure I would. You really want the paint to be able to soak into the fabric. :)
          Nancy

      2. Hi! It’s been a year since you did this chair(?)….I just saw it on Pinterest…and I was wondering if the paint held up and if it still looks good? I would like to try this on a couple of chairs I have.
        Have a great day!
        Rhonda

        1. Hi Rhonda!
          This chair is showing a slight bit of wear on the seat. I think it has more to do with the fabric than the paint. It was a silky-ish fabric and I probably would not paint that type again. The other blue chair I did is holding up better and it had a wider weave (more like outdoor fabric). The pillows I painted are in perfect condition and have been outside the entire time (covered and screened porches). So, I truly think the longevity depends on the original fabric you start with. Some do better than others.
          I would reserve this type of thing for furniture you don’t use on a daily basis. (although the pillows have had quite a bit and they are great…again, I think it has to do mostly with the fabric)
          Good luck! :)
          Nancy

  2. Well, you did it again! I must say … LOVE this chair even more than the last. The stencil added the “perfect touch” … Thank you for the inspiration!

  3. I love the looks of this but wonder how comfortable sitting on a painted chair is. Does it not “stick” to your legs in the summer?

    1. Hey Traci!
      It’s actually pretty comfortable. It just feels like leather so yes, it does have that type of feel to it! :)

      Nancy

  4. I love this transformation!
    Great job!! I have still to use chalk paint! Ahhh! I so want to! I have a chair that’s in desperate need of a makeover but the fabric is so nubby I’m not sure it would work ? I guess I can only try and find out!
    xo

    1. Thanks Kaara!! :)
      NO way!!!! Really? lol You better get with it! ;) Try the paint in an area it won’t show first. (like behind, underneath the cushion, if you can) Nubby, like large weave? It might even work better. I have found that larger weaves grab the paint better. (like outdoor fabric, etc) The white chair I did had a silky texture and this chair took the paint better than that one.
      Try it and see!
      Nancy

      1. Hello There! I love what you did with your chair! I have a very similar chair with chenille fabric on the side panels, bottom panels and back. The inner areas have a floral damask print that is slightly raised. Do you think the varying textures will look awful painted? I would appreciate any suggestions.

        Thank you,
        ~Kena

        1. Hi Kena,

          It’s hard to say with out actually seeing the chair. But I can tell you that this chair had a “raised” design as well. You can see it somewhat but I don’t think it takes away from the overall look at all. It really just depends how raised and what color you are painting it.
          Hope that helps…oh and thanks so much! :)
          Nancy

    1. Thanks Jen! :) Try it in an inconspicuous place first to see how the fabric takes the paint. I have found that larger weaves (instead of silky, slick fabric) take the paint a bit better.
      Thanks for the follow in IG too! :)
      Nancy

  5. This looks great Nancy! I have a couch my MIL gave me that I would love to paint. Do you remove the inserts from the cushions when you paint them or do you just paint them with them inside? I can’t wait until I have the time to do this.

    1. Thanks Sheila! :) I have found that it usually doesn’t soak through to the cushion so just paint right on there.
      Good luck! Let me know how it goes!
      Nancy

  6. The Chair looks awesome. What a great idea. Would have never thought you could use chalk paint on furniture. Can’t wait to try it out myself. Thanks Nancy :)

  7. LOVE LOVE LOVE!!! I have a very similar chair waiting for me! Have you ever painted with latex and fabric medium? Would you see this technique is better? I’ve seen some comments online that the chalk paint is stiff but if you use the latex with the fabric medium it’s not as stiff? I’ve seen a loveseat in the store where I buy my ASCP and it wasn’t stiff at all? Would you mind sharing your opinion with me? :D Thanks so much!!!!!

    1. Hi Lilli,

      Thanks!
      No I actually haven’t. I did buy 2 small bottles of fabric medium last year to do it though….but the typically “rubbery” nature of latex has kept me away. Since I haven’t tried the latex/fabric medium I can’t comment on that. (but I’m thinking I need to just to see the difference!) The Chalk Painted furniture is a bit stiff until you wax it. And if you lightly sand it before waxing that helps keep it softer too. (you’ll notice right away that it’s softer once you do that) Now, it will most definitely change the feel of the furniture. It won’t be the same. It will be more like leather…and no, not as soft as the original fabric. All ok with me! I plan to use this chair daily so will definitely have a true test as to how it performs. And as always…will definitely report back here with news on that! :)
      Nancy

      1. Perfect! I knew about it changing the texture – but I didn’t know about the sanding! And the wax is fine? You can sit on it once it dries!? That’s great! I have a chair id like to do in paris grey and add a stencil to it – or some wording. But i’ve never worked with stencils or the graphics wording. I have big ideas then they usually come out looking oh so wrong! lol. But I have to try! Thanks again!!!!

        1. Yep, once dry it is perfectly fine to sit on! :) Oh…I have had my fair share of things coming out “wrong” (as in, not at all what was pictured in my head!!lol)
          Easily fixed with more paint! ;)
          Nancy

          1. OK good to know! I’m going tomorrow to get the paint. I can’t do that gorgeous white color like you did because with my kids and pets i’m pretty sure it would be disgusting after a week. I’m thinking Paris Grey – but I’ll browse while i’m there. If it comes out good I’ll show you a pic ;)

          2. Thank you ! :) I’m sure it will be great and I would love to see a photo of it!!

            Nancy

          3. So totally disregard that last message! I’ve had a long day and am in a brain fog! You did the beautiful blue! And I already told you about paris grey :o Forgive me! I’ll still show you a pic if its presentable!

          4. No worries! ;) I also painted one in white (maybe that is the one you are thinking of)
            Nancy

          5. Did anyone try the latex? Is it different than the chalk paint? I wanna paint a chair, but I’m scared of ruining it!

          6. Hi Kelli,
            I haven’t tried the latex yet. One day soon I hope! :)
            Try an old pillow first before tackling something you love.
            Nancy

  8. LOVE it!!! I actually thought about painting the cording on my chair the contrasting color, but chickened out!! Yours looks beautiful!!!!!

    -andi

  9. A M A Z I N G !! This looks truly FABULOUS – The white trim and the stencil put it over-the-top and I just ADORE the color!!

    1. Aw thank you Debbie! It’s so nice to hear that others like what we create! :) I sometimes waver as I’m going through the creative process…..sometimes it’s a hit but sometimes not so much!! ;) But with paint..it’s usually easily fixed!
      Thanks again!!
      Nancy

  10. Nancy, I just love what you did with that chair! It looks amazing! I can’t wait to see your new office!

    I have a question…. when you paint the second coat (and third, if necessary) there’s no need to add any extra spritzes of water to the chair first, right? Just the first coat, so it kinda sinks into the fabric?

    Good job! xo

    1. Thanks Karen! :)
      No, I don’t really wet it again on the second coat. It’s usually not fully dry before I apply the second coat anyway plus there is added water in the paint so it is pretty wet.
      Hope you are having a great week!!
      xo
      Nancy

  11. LOVE This!!! You did a great job. and I love the soft blue and white combo. I have an “arm chair” that was in my parents bedroom forever. No one EVER sat it in. Now it’s in my living room and it gets occasional use, but it’s going to get a MAKEOVER really soon. Just as soon as I get my hands on some annie sloan chalk paint. I’ve used home made paint before, but I really want to try the AS paint. I live at the beach, so it’s gonna be a “beachy” inspired chair. Maybe a big ole crab painted on the seat so when you sit down, your butt sits on the crab claws, hahaha!!! :-) Thanks for the inspiration!

  12. Wow Nancy, what a difference. I love the blue and white color and the stencil on the back is such a pretty touch! I haven’t painted upholstery yet but I was just commissioned to refinish some antique chairs and the upholstery is still in very good condition but ugly so this might be the perfect opportunity for me to try it. Finger’s crossed.

  13. Nancy, this is gorgeous! Love how it came out. I tried painting a chair with more tweed like fabric and the seat cushion just kept soaking up the paint. I had wet the chair cushion with a spray bottle and did three coats of French Linen and it kept sucking it up… I LOVE how this came out! x

    1. Thank you Danielle! :) Yes, I have found that some fabrics work better (and some not as much) with the CP!
      Thanks!! xo
      Nancy

  14. Okay, I think you are convincing me to try this, this just looks so fabulous and fresh! I have some cushions for our patio furniture that are in good shape, but I’m tired of the fabric. I’ve been thinking about making new covers for the past couple years but that seems like SO much work. You may have just convinced me to try painting them. I’ve got some ASCP paint that I could use up. Hmmm!!!

    1. Thank you Sharon! ;) Why not! (keep in mind…if they are in the sun, you might not want to apply the wax to them though!)
      My porch pillows (not in direct sun) have held up beautifully…over a year ago painted.
      xo
      Nancy

    1. Haha! Thank you Christy! :) I just painted another pillow this past weekend…it’s all a little addicting!
      Nancy

    1. Yes, I used the wax on the fabric and the wood finish. It seals the paint. I have another chair that I did linked in that post that goes into more detail about the process. :)
      Nancy

    1. Thank you Amanda! :) It’s actually pretty comfortable. The fabric stays pretty pliable..like leather. It just does change in texture…but it’s not hard at all. :)
      Time will tell how it holds up!
      Nancy

  15. I so love your chair. Think it looks incredible. The color with white piping is so soft and feminine looking. Can barely see the pattern from other old upholstery, looks like it’s embossed. Hope it’s as comfy as it looks. I can remember a couple episodes of “Trading Spaces” when it was on, one of designers painted furniture. Yours looks a whole lot better.
    There are just some posts I read all the comments, very educational. It’s amazing what I can learn by reading about others tries and fails and great successes. I have a club chair I bought at Habitat few years ago now. It’s a very good sturdy chair, but, it has really ugly plaid upholstery that does not go with rest of room. It had skirting on it which we removed, what a difference just that made. We painted l/r recently, made new art, new curtains, other improvements. Since I’ve got a shabbychic/beachy/cottage thing going I put vintage faded tablecloths on chair to cover the plaid. Tucked and stapled table cloths down and it looks quite fetching I think compared to what it was before. I had a slipcover but it doesn’t go with new changes at all. Maybe when I get tired of the tablecloths I’ll try to paint chair.
    We got a really nice “new to us” couch at Habitat last week but with a very shedding black dog I’ve used a tablecloth for the seat cushions down to floor also and a lacy white shower top curtain for back cushions. Then when they get dirty I can pop them in washer lots easier than cleaning the white with lines pattern couch. New couch made such a difference from old couch which made l/r look like there was a big dark hole in it. Love my new couch and the price, $125 – 25% off coupon = $100.92 with tax. Would like to have waited til next day to get 15% off senior discount also but was concerned it wouldn’t be there if I did. Worth every penny for the happiness it’s given me. The old couch was very ugly and I hated it the whole time we had it. I’m broke now for rest of month but still worth it. Enjoy and learn so much from your blog. Happy days

    1. Thanks so much! :) You are right, the pattern hardly shows up at all and it does look like embossing.
      Oh yes, I bet it does look so much better with the skirt off! Great idea. I am with you, I love a bargain! ;)
      Sounds like you are the same!
      Hope you have a great week!
      xo
      Nancy

  16. I love your chair!. I have a similar one I’m going to try painting. Not sure how it will be in time. Will it crack? I guess only time will tell.
    Love your blog!

    1. Hi Lynne,
      Thank you so much!:) About cracking, I have not had an issue with that. I think the key is applying thin (a bit watered down) coats so it can actually soak into the fabric (instead of just thickly sitting on top) AND misting the fabric beforehand helps it to absorb better too. The wax really helps make it “flexible” and softens it up a bit.
      Hope that helps!:)
      Nancy

  17. I love the ethereal quality of the colors — perfect for a woman’s space. I have tried this too, both with the real thing and the homemade. The real chalk paint holds up better. I also painted some chairs with Design Master Spray paint made for florals and fabrics, and that has held up very very well. I took a little soft brush and just brushed it a bit after it was good and dry. Since it was a heavily textured fabric, I did not wax the fabric, only the wood. The fabric is actually quite soft now. I have also painted a leather chair with chalk paint.

    1. Thank you! That is interesting (and good to know) about the fabric getting softer. I might have to try that! :)
      Nancy

  18. Hi Nancy!
    I work with Annie Sloan products in Sweden & I just love this post. You describe the process in such a clear (and witty) way and your photos are fantastic. I shared a link to this post in our Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/405727266118857/) and recommended that others come and have a look at such a super project. I hope this is ok with you…if not, please let me know and I will remove it straight away.
    Thank you for writing such a great blog.
    Best regards from Sarah in Sweden

    1. Hi Sarah!!
      Absolutely you may share it on your FB page like that. Thank you for doing so! :) And thanks so much for your sweet and thoughtful words too!!
      Hope you have a great week!!
      xo
      Nancy

  19. I love what you did to that chair. It’s just beautiful and amaseing that it is possible to do it like that with the paint. You are realy talented.
    Lena

    1. Hi Lena,
      Aw thanks so very much!! I know what you mean, it amazes me how different it looks once done too! I love paint! :)
      Nancy

  20. Whoa!! Nice job!! But I have a question… doesn’t the paint get removed with the use? Cause I want to try it, but I’am a bit scared about that hahahaha. Thanks in advance Nancy :)

    1. Thanks Lara!! :)
      No, I haven’t had that problem! I think the key is to apply thinly (letting it absorb well into the fabric instead of sitting on top)
      Try it!! ;)
      Nancy

  21. About how much paint did you need for this project? I haven’t used chalk paint yet either, but I do love to re-vitalize furniture and I’ve got a chair/love seat that I’ve been dreading recovering. I only spent $20 on the chair so if I botch the whole project I’m not in too much trouble. But I’d love to give this a try.
    Also, what stores carry this paint? We are in a small town and I know Lowe’s doesn’t carry it here.

    1. Hi Rachel,
      It was a lot. Since I mixed the paint and then mixed with water it’s hard to say exacts. BUT you will have more than enough with one can of paint. None of the Lowe’s or other chain retailers carry it. It’s a boutique product. You can check online at anniesloanunfolded . com and see a list of stockists. Maybe someone close by you does! If not, you can always order if from one of them online! :)
      Nancy

  22. Nancy! I’m still painting the chair cushion on my wingback chair!!!! The one side of the cushion is as hard as a plaster! AND I waxed it…. :( …. Now I turned it over, and did one light coat – about 20% water – and the second coat with more paint. I played, I swished the brush in there, I did everything but stand on my head and paint it with my hair! It covered, but now the colors of the the pattern are bleeding thru. Im scared if I throw a 3rd coat on it’ll be like plaster. My chair is very similar to yours (texture wise). I wonder if a flat fabric would work better? What do you think about the 3rd coat? just spot paint it? Make it thinner or with more paint? Im painting this chair darn it!

    Thanks as always!

    Lilli

    1. Hey Lilli!!
      OH no!! Hmm…I’m thinking the paint was too thick and is wanting to “lay on top” instead of soaking in. You will get cracking and hardness with that. I don’t remember how much water I added but it was pretty sloshy. (my technical term! ;) ) I really wanted it to be able to soak in, and it needs to. Go ahead and hit those areas that are bleeding through again..if you don’t need a full coat all over, don’t. Just hit the areas that need it. Then, after it is dry, very very lightly sand over it (with very fine grit sandpaper 400s) to ‘soften’ it a bit. But not enough that will remove the paint. Then wax it.
      So yes, make your paint thinner I am thinking. Try all that and let me know how it goes! :)
      Nancy

  23. I would like to see the actual process of painting it. How many layers are needed? Can you prime it first, so that you do not need so many layers of paint?

    1. Hi

      I have the process in photos above. :) Two is usually sufficient. I wouldn’t prime because that is a different type of paint and wouldn’t work well with this process.
      Hope that helps!
      Nancy

    1. Thanks Jackie! :)
      I can’t say because I haven’t tried either of those on fabric. I am going to try regular latex paint with a fabric medium (I already have the medium..now I just need to find the time! ;) ) to see how it fares in comparison to the CP chair.
      I’ll be posting on the blog once I do! If you are interested, be sure to subscribe to get the posts in your email.
      Have a great day!!
      Nancy

  24. This is such a great idea. I have never used chalk paint before. I am reading about this “waxing”. How does that work? Spread it on with a brush or cloth then wipe it off? Or does the wax stay on..
    Seems like a fun a cheaper way to redo a chair than upholstery!

    1. Hi Tricia,
      The wax does penetrate and seal the the fabric/Chalk Paint. You don’t want to apply thickly but you do want to get it “in to” the fabric. A wax brush works best for this. Wipe away excess.
      Once dry, buff.
      Possibilities are endless with this…enjoy! :)
      Nancy

    1. Hi Heather!
      I have a few other painted fabric projects on here too. Take a look and if you have any other questions, feel free to email me. :)
      Nancy

  25. Hello I have tried this (following your instructions) on my sofa but a few days after outting the wax and paint layer on wax and paint aree coming off onto our clothes, any ideas how i can fix this?
    Thanks

    1. Hi,
      It’s really hard to say without seeing it and knowing exactly how it was applied (and the type of fabric it is). The type of fabric will affect wear and absorption of the paint. If it was not thinned enough, it might have laid more on top of the fabric instead of soaking in. (sounds like that possibly?) In that case, it would and could tend to crack and come off. Some fabrics don’t take the paint well I have found. I will not do tight weaved, silky pieces with the Chalk Paint. Larger weaves, more open fabric, course fabric, works best.
      As far as fixing, you could try a light sanding and re-wax. Then buffing well.
      Hope that helps!
      Nancy

  26. I haven’t read through all the comments, but I think a matching stencil on the BACK of that chair would be totally awesome; I have a chair waiting in the wings for me to paint

  27. Hi Nancy,

    Thank you so very much for this wonderful tutorial! I hope to try this out soon :) Do you have an idea for about how much paint you used for this? I’m just trying to calculate the cost of the re-do.

    What about painting a couch for the living room! Do you think that’s feasible and would yield a comfortable couch? Or will it cost too much paint?

    Thanks again!

    1. Hi Jenna,
      You are so welcome! :) I don’t remember but with it mixed with water is was not a terribly large amount. One can should be more than enough.
      I am not sure I’d paint an every day piece. I do sit in the blue chair often but still don’t think I’d paint my couch. :) (comfort and longevity of the finish would be a concern for everyday use)

      Hope that helps!
      Nancy

  28. Hi, I wonder if you have any ideas. I have a tufted velvet love seat. It started off a bright cherry red. I have don’t eh latex paint and medium technique to change it to a chocolate brown and after 4 coats in is a dark wind color and I have lost hope that it will ever be grown using this method. I have to sand quite heavily to maintain some softness between coats and that lightens the color as well. I still want the love seat and still want it chocolate brown. Do you think there is any use in trying the Annie Sloan chalk paint? I can’t stand the thought of spending the money on 4 more coats of anything but could handle two. I’ve also heard mixed reviews on the wax on a velvet fabric. Some sayit makes the fabric stiffer and that it is better not to use the wax on velvet painted fabric. Please comment.

    1. Hi Anne,
      I am thinking the red underneath is affecting your end result. (it’s not covering fully)
      First thing, Annie Sloan does not have a chocolate brown color. You can make the color by mixing several of her other colors like I did in this post here https://www.artsychicksrule.com/2013/08/chair-transformed-chalk-paint.html but that would require several cans of paint to purchase. The second, is I have not painted velvet and I’m not quite sure I would. So I can’t honestly answer about painting on velvet. So sorry! And just for FYI, in my experience, on the fabric I’ve painted, the wax always softens. I would expect it to soften even the velvet somewhat too.
      Hope that helps some!
      Nancy

  29. Hi, Nancy,
    Your chair is beautiful!! Love your work. I’m going to buy paint tomorrow to paint a loveseat I have been wanting to get reupholstered. This is a much cheaper option and looks fun to do. How long does it take for the wax to dry?? Thanks!

    1. Hi Lisa,
      Thanks so much!
      The wax is not really “wet”, more of a cure time. Probably about a week for a full cure but it’s fine after a few hours!
      Nancy

  30. I`m planning on painting one that I have. I read the whole post, and before doing the whole chair I tried with a piece of cloth. It came out fine. Your is amazing, congratulations is not an easy job. Thanks!!

  31. Hi, love your chairs and am hoping you can give me some advice. I’m completing my own chair and have spritzed the fabric and given it a first coat of diluted French linen chalk paint, do I water down the 2nd coat? Before you waxed the chair did you give the fabric a quick sand with fine grade paper? How many coats of wax would you recommend, the chair will only receive light use. Many thanks. Roz xx

    1. Hi Roz,
      Thanks!
      Yep, I’d water down the set coat too. It really needs to absorb.
      And wax, just one coat should be sufficient. (and yes, lightly sanding with very fine sandpaper will soften the fabric before waxing)
      So, sounds like you’ve got it down! :)
      Nancy

      1. Hi Nancy, thank you so much for taking the time to reply, I’m feeling more confident now to continue the project, fingers crossed my results are half as good as yours. Xx

  32. Hi Nancy

    What a great job you did with both chairs! I was wondering how you have found it one year on, in terms of wear and comfort? I am thinking of painting a nursing chair to put in our nursery, which would probably get used about as much as your blogging chair. Thanks! Helen x

    1. Hi Helen,

      As things usually go, my office is still bare the chair! ;) It’s downstairs in my study (that I’m not using) and has only been sat in a handful of times when I had guests over.
      But what I can tell you, and what I now recommend, is I would only paint chairs like that…for occasional use. I just don’t think they will hold up to daily use over time. The chair is in great condition but I can see how a bit of wear will form. Although, my pillows outside have done amazingly well and are the longest painted. Still, I stand by the occasional use only as a best practice. :)
      Hope that helps!
      Nancy

  33. Beautiful!
    I’ve looked into this recently and am looking for a project to try it on. How does your feel?
    Nancy,

    And what camera do you use for your photos?
    I’m a stay at home mom, in transition from every second mom to Who Am I??? What Am I??? With my “Baby” of 4 going to 1st grade next year. I’m slowing starting a home business and wanting a blog style website. (Yours if Beautiful!)
    Any tip you could give would be GREATLY Appreciated!!
    Many Blessings!
    Jenny Noelle
    -Jenny Noelle Design-

  34. I love the way the colors turned out! I am currently going for a coastal inspired design for my apartment and got my hands on an old sofa and matching chairs for pretty cheap but they are made of. Thicker, tweed like material. Would this tutorial work on that kind of fabric, or would it just soak up all of the color?

    1. Hi!
      It’s hard to say without seeing it but in my experience, those types of fabric usually work best. You can try it out on a piece of the fabric that is not visible first. (like under the cushion if it’s removable)
      Good luck and have fun! :)
      Nancy

    1. Hi Kenneth,

      No, I sure haven’t! Not sure I would since it would end up laying “on top” of the fabric and you would really want it to soak in a bit.
      Nancy

  35. the chair looks beautiful. Did you know you can buy fabric spray paint that stays on and is soft, it doesn’t change the feel of the fabric…….I did a chair around 18 months ago which is used every day and shows no sign of wear. Paint cost me 60.00 dollars (AUD) and the chair from a thrift shop was 15 dollars.
    It also one process no sanding or wax required.
    This is where you can buy the spray http://www.simplyspray.com.au/.

    I do love the colors and design you used on the chair it looks stunning

  36. Hi,

    Attempting my first chair painting today. Using an acrylic paint with the fabric medium. Finished the first coat. Just wondering if for the second coat I spray the chair with water first again or just start right in with the paint mixture? Would appreciate some help with that. Have tried to check but just not sure. Instructions say repeat a second time so just confirming that includes the spraying.

    Thanks for the idea of painting a chair and for your help with my question.

    1. Hi Linda,

      I haven’t used fabric medium yet. (although I bought some years ago to try! It’s on my list :) )
      So, I’m not sure on the particulars of that specific application. Does it say to spray with water on the first go round? If so, I would imagine you would repeat that entire process.
      Sorry I can’t be of more help! I know with Chalk Paint, you want to use water to help it soak into the fabric better. Chalk Paint, is well, chalky and dry-ish, so it needs the water.
      Good luck! :)
      Nancy

  37. did this about a year ago to similar chair. Mine (2 of them one not complete):-) are channel back. Beats the heck out of $7 0r 8 hundred for new ones to use in a formal living room, that is seldom used.
    Love both the chairs you did. Super job and the stencil just makes it pop. Wonderful talent you have girl.

  38. I love this! I’m going to try it this weekend on one of my dining room chairs! Now that some time has passed, is it still holding up really well and not cracking?

    1. I don’t sit in this one often at all but my husband used to while it was at the desk in our study. It has held up quite well though. I can tell you that some fabrics hold up better with the paint than others. Typically, the more open weaves (non slick type of fabric) will hold up better. I’m actually planning on painting my dining room chair fabric seats soon!! :) They are flat and should hold up super well.

  39. I have just pained a chair too, I was not sure about how much white to add so I left it off the first two coats, can I add it in for the third coat and if so how much would you add?

    1. Hi Cathy,
      Do you mean you want it to be similar color as mine? I did add white and I think you would be fine to add it on your third coat. It’s hard for me to say how much to add without seeing the chair. I would suggest just mixing until you like the color. Remember, it does darken a bit once dry. Hope that helps and good luck! :)
      xo
      Nancy

  40. I HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO GET A FREE CHAIR SIMILAR TO THE WHITE ONE YOU SHOWED BUT IT IS A LITTLE DIRTY, DO YOU CLEAN THEM OR DO YOU PAINT RIGHT OVER IT?

    THERE IS ALSO PLASTIC LEGS ON THIS CHAIR CAN I PAINT RIGHT OVER THE PLASTIC WITH THE CHALK PAINT?

    1. Yes, I would clean them first. Yes, you can paint the plastic with Chalk Paint but I would sand it first to rough it up a bit. (with a fine grade sandpaper). You just want to take some of the sheen off. Hope that helps! :)

  41. Hey this is awesome. I’ve seen things painted and after a while the paint starts to rub off on you and your clothes. Does this not?

  42. Hi Nancy! I love your tutorials and have learned so much! I have a question about painting the piping around your chair. Did you tape around it so you wouldn’t get any white paint on the blue fabric? If you didn’t use tape did you hold something under the edge of the piping or do something like that?

    1. Hi Nancy! Yay, I’m so glad. :) I didn’t tape it, I just used a small painter’s brush to do it. It took a little more time but worked well. You could just tape it though! Either way should work just fine. :) xo

  43. I painted my dining room chairs with Dixie Belle chalk paint. Although they look beautiful the fabric is very stiff and rough feeling. I sprayed Easy Peasy was on them and rubbed it in but they are still rough to the touch. Other than that they are perfect. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

    1. Hi Shari! I would suggest giving them a light sanding. Not enough to remove the color but just enough to soften them up. That’s what I’ve done to soften mine fabric painted items in the past. (I’m not familiar with easy peasy spray though so not sure how that will affect the sanding and getting it soft…probably best to do the spray after sanding) Good luck! xo

      1. Hi Nancy,
        Thanks for the information however, I did sand them prior to the wax. What kind of wax did you use?
        Shari

  44. I remember when you did this. I love it. I have a chair (exact same) and matching ottoman with flowered fabric inherited. It’s essentially brand new, so I hated to get rid of it, so I’m going to do this exactly. I love the look. Thanks for the reminder ! XO

    1. Oh wow, really?!! That’s wild! Good luck with yours! I haven’t used it for this yet, but apparently, people have great luck using the Fusion Mineral Paint for this as well. (even “pleather/leather” types of furniture too!) :)

  45. Wow, what a transformation! I would have thought the chair would get stiff and crack, but I guess you solved that….Amazing and pretty.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.