This post is about painting fabric furniture and all the tips you need to know before.
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Disclaimer: When you are completing any DIY project please do your due diligence in research. Not every project is right for every home. This blog is intended to serve as a place for inspiration only.
Can You Actually Paint Fabric?
Yes – you actually can! Whether or not you should, you’ll have to decide that. I’m sharing all my thoughts after painting a fabric chair a year ago below!
Things To Consider Before Painting Fabric
When painting fabric you use a significant amount of fabric softener. Fabric softener is flammable, so consider this when deciding if this project is right for you. Once you make changes to the original piece any fire safety warning label is void – you can not sell or donate that chair in the future. Additionally, the fabric softener I used had a strong smell. If I did this project again, I would choose an unscented option.
I would also consider whether or not the fabric or chair is worth any significant value. If it’s a unique fabric, I’d probably avoid the paint. Older & mass manufactured chairs are usually the best contenders for this type of DIY project. Additionally, take a look at any unique textures/patterns in the fabric. The chair I used had a raised texture. While some people loved how it turned out, I thought the paint would cover the texture, so I was a bit disappointed in the texture coming through.
How To Paint Fabric
1. Soften up the fabric & mix your paint solution.
Mix 50% unscented fabric softener with 50% water in a spray bottle. This mixture will be used to soften your fabric before painting. Then mix 50% unscented fabric softener with 50% latex paint. This will be the mixture used for painting your fabric.
2. Saturate the fabric & begin painting.
Using a light mist, spray down the fabric until slightly damp. Using a paintbrush, lightly apply your paint solution. The first layer should be a thin, slightly see-through layer. Allow for a full 24hr dry time.
3. Lightly sand, paint, dry, & repeat.
Once your first layer is completely dry, check for any large clumps or super textured areas. If needed, use a high grit sandpaper to lightly sand the area. Wipe up any loose dirt and dust, and then begin applying a second layer of your paint mixture. Again, keep this layer light to prevent streaks. Allow for another 24hr dry time. If you’re satisfied with the results, you’re done! If you’re noticing any see-through patches, complete the process one more time.
Is Painting Fabric Worth It?
Yes & no. I think it’s a fun & unique way to up-cycle something. The project held up significantly better than I expected it to. I think painting a chair that’s on its way to a landfill is a great idea; however, I would opt for a slipcover or reupholstery job in most instances.
If you chose to complete this project, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the results, but I would say it’s unlikely I ever do this DIY again. I hope this information was helpful for you in determining whether or not to paint fabric!
Do you do the fabric softener/water spray again before painting the second coat of paint?
I did not. You can do a light sand to remove any blemishes, and then go back in with your 50/50 paint mixture for the second layer. Hope that helps!
We had an issue with a glycol leak on one of our Atrium awnings.
We could reupholster.
But after seeing your vid on painting fabric? What the heck, hurts nothing to try…and it keeps the efforts in house.
(which we like)
Stay tuned.
Ross, Lambeau