There are tons of possibilities when painting an old wooden chair. You can paint it to make it a flagship, to give an extra touch to the room or for a specific purpose. Once the surface of the chair is prepared, draw a decorative pattern or a solid color according to the paint you choose. The good thing about painting a wooden chair is that if you don't like the result, you can always start over and repaint it!
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Prepare the Surface
Step 1. Wash the chair
Use a cloth dipped in soapy water to remove any cobwebs, debris, or dirt build-up. If there is a buildup of grease, use a specific degreasing product and then rinse with water. Let the chair dry completely.
Step 2. Sand the chair to create a smooth surface for painting if needed
If the chair is coated with chipping paint, use coarse sandpaper first to remove larger pieces, then gradually use finer and finer grit until you get the desired result. Sand away light scratches and dents, as they would show when painting the chair.
Step 3. Fill any gaps with wood putty
If the imperfections are too deep to be removed by sanding alone, apply some wood filler and let it dry according to the instructions on the package. Once dry, smooth away any excess grout until the surface becomes smooth.
Step 4. Dust off the chair
Use a Swiffer-type cloth or a slightly damp cotton cloth to remove the dust caused by sanding.
Method 2 of 2: Paint the Chair
Step 1. Choose a color or color scheme for your chair
Use a solid color or a combination of contrasting or complementary colors, choose the solution you prefer.
For a whimsical look, paint the seat in one color, the backrest in another, and the legs in yet another. For a more subtle result, paint the entire chair in a solid color, then apply details, such as stripes or polka dots, using one or two different colors
Step 2. Place the chair on a cloth or tarp to protect the floor from splashes or drips of paint
Step 3. Mix the color well before applying it
Use a brush that is easy to handle and small enough to reach all parts of the chair. It is usually easier to paint it by turning it upside down and starting with the legs. When finished, put it straight on its legs and paint the rest.
Step 4. Let it dry and then apply the other coats as needed
If you want to get results quickly, use spray paint. Shake the jar well before painting
Step 5. Apply several light coats rather than a single thick coat to avoid dripping
Step 6. Cover the newly painted chair with a clear protective layer
Depending on the finish you want, use a matte, satin or glossy finish. A spray finish is easy to apply, but if you use a brush you get more control over the application as well. If you plan to add decals, put them on before applying the clear protective finish. Then let the clear coat dry according to the manufacturer's instructions and apply it in several layers if desired.
