How To Refurbish Old Chairs
How To Refurbish Old Chairs
If you have an old chair gathering dust or have purchased one at a flea market, you can give it new life with a little refurbishing. Refurbishing chairs is a fun and rewarding activity; it's a great way to add a unique touch to your home, and to make something old look new again. This tutorial will show you the basics of how to refurbish an old chair.
Step 1: Preparing the Chair for Refurbishing
Before you begin the refurbishing process, it's important to make sure the chair is ready for it. Start by giving the chair a thorough cleaning; use a damp cloth to remove any dirt and debris, and vacuum up any cobwebs or other debris. Once the chair is clean, check it for any structural damage. Make sure the joints are secure and the legs are firmly attached. If there are any loose screws or joints, use wood glue or screws to secure them.
Step 2: Stripping the Chair
Now that the chair is ready for refurbishing, it's time to strip off the old finish. You can do this by using a chemical stripper, or you can use a hand-held sander. If you decide to use a chemical stripper, make sure to read the instructions and safety warnings carefully. Once the finish is stripped off, you can use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any remaining paint or finish.
Step 3: Refinishing the Chair
Now it's time to refinish the chair. You can choose to paint, stain or lacquer the chair. If you're painting the chair, make sure to use a primer first, followed by two coats of paint. If you choose to stain the chair, make sure to apply an even coat and allow it to dry thoroughly before applying a clear sealant. If you opt for lacquering the chair, apply several thin coats of lacquer and allow each coat to dry before applying the next one.
Step 4: Reupholstering the Chair
Once the chair is finished, you may want to reupholster it as well. To do this, remove the old cushions and fabric from the chair. Measure out the amount of new fabric you need and use a staple gun to secure it to the chair. Once the cushion is upholstered, you can choose to use buttons, tassels or other decorations to give it a unique look.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Now that the chair is finished, it's time to give it the final touches. You can choose to add a coat of wax to protect the finish, or you can add some decorative accents such as tassels or trim. You can also add throw pillows or other accessories to give the chair a more personal touch.
Conclusion
Refurbishing an old chair is a rewarding activity. It's a great way to give something old a new life, and to make something unique for your home. With a little time and effort, you can transform an old chair into something that looks like new. Just follow the steps outlined in this tutorial and you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and unique piece of furniture.
