How To Refinish Old Chairs

Gather the Supplies

The first step in refinishing an old chair is to gather all the supplies that you will need. This includes sandpaper, a sanding block, a cloth or brush for cleaning, a drop cloth, and the paint or stain that you plan to use for the chair. You will also need a screwdriver or drill to remove any hardware from the chair. Lastly, you will need a small container of mineral spirits to clean off any residue on the chair.

Prepare the Chair

Once you have gathered all the supplies you need, the next step is to prepare the chair. Remove any hardware such as screws, nails, and washers and set them aside. Use the screwdriver or drill to remove any attachments that may be on the chair. Using a cloth or brush, wipe off the chair to remove any dust or residue. Place the chair on a drop cloth to protect the floor and surrounding area.

Sanding

The next step is to sand the chair. Using sandpaper or a sanding block, sand down the chair to remove any old paint or finish. Make sure to sand all the surfaces of the chair, including the legs, arms, and back. Sand until the chair is smooth and free of any imperfections. Once you are finished sanding, use the mineral spirits to clean off any dust or residue that may have been left behind.

Painting or Staining

Now that the chair is prepped and sanded, you can begin painting or staining the chair. If you are going to use a stain, make sure to apply a thin coat and then allow it to dry. If you are going to use paint, you may need to apply multiple coats depending on the finish that you want. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next one.

Reassembling

Once the paint or stain has dried, you can begin reassembling the chair. Replace any hardware that you removed earlier, such as screws, nails, and washers. Make sure to tighten all the screws and bolts so that the chair is secure. Once the chair is reassembled, you can move it to the desired location.

Finishing Touches

The final step in refinishing an old chair is to add any finishing touches. This can include adding a cushion or upholstery to the chair. You can also add decorative elements such as tassels or trim. This step is optional but can add a little extra flair to the chair and make it stand out from the rest.