Do you have a dingy old couch that’s just begging for a makeover? It may seem impossible to redo your upholstered furniture without stripping it and reupholstering, but these tutorials for painting fabric will make you think differently about your dated sofa.
- Decide on a design. First, decide if you want to paint the entire surface of your furniture an entirely different color, or if you want to get really creative and add a funky pattern to the existing shade.
- Choose the right fabric. Tightly woven fabrics work better, as the paint has less chance of seeping through the weave.
- Wash. If you’re painting removable fabric, try to wash it first. Just make sure to skip the fabric softener to eliminate the amount of chemicals in the fabric.
- Choose the right paint. Purchase a fabric paint from your local craft store, and be sure to check the label to see how much you’ll need for the size of your fabric. Spray paints work best for all-over color, while tiny brushes and small paint buckets work well for patterns.
- Use multiple coats. Because most fabrics are already very bold, you’ll likely have to paint multiple coats to get the new color to completely cover the old one.
- Allow time to dry. Be sure to allow at least a full 12 hours in between each coat, and even longer before you sit on the couch or chair.
How To: Paint Fabric [Bob Vila]
Tutorial: How to Paint Upholstery Fabric and Completely Transform a Chair! [11 Magnolia Lane]
10 Fabric Painting Tips [About Home]
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