Refinishing Vintage Metal Lawn Chairs
How to Refinish Vintage Metal Lawn Chairs
Vintage metal lawn chairs are a beautiful classic outdoor furniture piece. Many of us have fond memories of sitting in them while enjoying a summer evening on the porch. Unfortunately, over time, these chairs can become rusty, scratched, and faded. But with a little elbow grease and the right tools, you can make your vintage metal lawn chairs look like new again!
Gather Your Supplies
Before you start the refinishing process, make sure you have the right supplies on hand. You'll need a wire brush, paint stripper, sandpaper, primer, metal paint, and a paintbrush. Additionally, if you want to give the chair a glossy finish, you'll need to purchase a clear sealant. Make sure to check the labels on the paint and sealant to make sure they are suitable for outdoor use.
Strip the Paint
The first step in the refinishing process is to strip the old paint off of the metal. You can do this with a paint stripper or a wire brush. If you're using a paint stripper, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. For best results, start by applying the stripper to the underside of the chair first and then move on to the other areas. If you're using a wire brush, you'll need to use a bit of elbow grease. Work the brush over the metal in a circular motion until all of the paint is removed.
Sand the Chair
Once all the paint has been removed, you'll need to sand the chair. This will help to remove any rust and smooth out any rough edges. Start with an 80-grit sandpaper and then move up to a finer grit paper, such as 120 or 220. Make sure to sand in the same direction as the grain of the metal for best results. Once you're done sanding, use a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
Apply Primer
After sanding, you'll need to apply a metal primer. This will help to protect the metal from rust and prepare it for painting. Make sure to read the instructions on the can carefully and apply the primer in thin, even coats. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Paint the Chair
Once the primer is dry, you can begin painting the chair. Start with a coat of metal paint. Make sure to paint in the same direction as the grain of the metal for best results. If you're painting the chair a different color than the original, you may need to apply several coats of paint. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Apply a Clear Sealant
Once the paint is dry, you can apply a clear sealant to give the chair a glossy finish. Make sure to read the instructions on the can carefully and apply the sealant in thin, even coats. Allow the sealant to dry completely and then enjoy your newly-refinished vintage metal lawn chair!
