Transforming Devil Chairs: From Vintage to Modern | Epic Furniture Makeover
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Why I don't like painting chairs
- The challenges and profit margins of painting chairs
- The Devil Chairs: A custom set of eight with a huge table
- Stripping the vintage table
- Using Strip Ease: A favorite stripper for easy clean-up
- The benefits of using a sanding paper block
- Sanding the table: Choosing the right grit
- The importance of sanding in sections
- Applying primer to the chairs
- Creating a wash to remove redness from the table
- Applying the wash and removing excess
- Sanding the table after the wash
- Applying the top coat to the table and chairs
- The finishing touch: Adding a custom detail to the table
- Staging the finished table
- Conclusion
🎨 Refinishing Furniture: From Devil Chairs to Stunning Tables
Are there certain pieces of furniture that you dread painting? For me, it's chairs. The amount of work involved in refinishing them often outweighs the profit, but sometimes you have to take on custom projects like the Devil Chairs – a set of eight chairs with a huge table. In this article, I'll take you through the process of transforming these devilish chairs into stunning pieces of furniture. From stripping the vintage table to applying the perfect wash, sanding, and finishing, you'll discover my tried-and-true techniques for creating unique and beautiful designs. So let's dive in and see how these devil chairs become the centerpiece of any room.
Introduction
Refinishing furniture can be a rewarding endeavor, but there are certain pieces that present unique challenges. For me, chairs have always been at the top of that list. The amount of work involved in properly stripping, sanding, painting, and finishing chairs is often disproportionate to the profit that can be made from them. However, as a refinisher, sometimes you have to take on these projects to meet the customization requests of clients.
Why I don't like painting chairs
Chairs require meticulous attention to detail. Each leg, arm, back, and seat needs to be refinished separately, adding significant time and effort to the process. Unlike larger pieces like tables or cabinets, chairs have multiple angles and surfaces that require careful sanding and painting to ensure a smooth and even finish. Additionally, their smaller size means that achieving a flawless result can be more challenging.
The challenges and profit margins of painting chairs
While some custom projects like the Devil Chairs can be financially rewarding, the overall profit margins for painting chairs tend to be lower than for larger pieces. The time and effort required to strip, sand, and paint each chair can quickly eat into profits, especially when considering the added cost of materials such as primer, paint, and topcoat. However, for those refinishers who have mastered the art of chair refinishing, there is still a market demand for these unique pieces.
The Devil Chairs: A custom set of eight with a huge table
One such custom project that came across my workshop was a set of eight chairs accompanied by a massive table. The Devil Chairs, as I dubbed them, were in need of a complete transformation. The initial request was to simply paint both the chairs and the table. However, with my expertise, I proposed a more unique approach. I suggested stripping the table and applying a pottery varnish restoration hardware type look instead.
Stripping the vintage table
The first step in this transformation was to strip the vintage table. The table had a high gloss finish, making it necessary to use a reliable stripper that could effectively remove the existing finish without damaging the wood. For this task, I turned to my favorite stripper, Strip Ease. What sets Strip Ease apart from other strippers is its easy clean-up, as it can be removed with just water. It allows for continuous working without drying too hard, making it ideal for stubborn finishes.
Using Strip Ease: A favorite stripper for easy clean-up
I applied Strip Ease generously to the table and allowed it to sit for about 15 to 20 minutes. The stripper began to loosen the old finish, making it easy to remove with a spatula. Meticulously working in sections, I stripped the table until most of the stain had been removed. One of the advantages of Strip Ease is its ability to be cleaned up with just water. Using a steel wool pad and plain water, I wiped away any remaining residue.
The benefits of using a sanding paper block
After letting the table dry, I proceeded to sand it. To ensure a smooth and even surface, I started with a 120-grit sanding paper. However, as I progressed with the refinishing process, I realized that an 80-grit sanding paper would be more appropriate. Using a sanding paper block, I cleaned the sandpaper frequently, allowing me to reuse the same sheet for a longer duration. This technique saved me both time and money.
Sanding the table: Choosing the right grit
Sanding the table was a meticulous process that required attention to detail. I worked in sections, allowing the stripper to activate on one side while I focused on sanding and cleaning the other. The goal was to achieve a smooth and consistent surface throughout the table, removing any traces of the previous finish or stain. In some areas that were harder to reach or required a gentle touch, I opted to leave a custom detail rather than risk damaging the wood.
Applying primer to the chairs
With the table successfully stripped and sanded, I turned my attention to the chairs. Before applying any paint, it was essential to prime the chairs to ensure a durable and long-lasting finish. Aqua Lock, one of my favorite primers, was the ideal choice for this project. Its black color made it easier to achieve a solid black finish, creating a smooth base for the final coats of paint.
Creating a wash to remove redness from the table
To enhance the natural grain of the table and remove any residual redness, I decided to create a wash using Dixie Belle's Putty from their mineral line. I mixed one tablespoon of paint with two cups of water, adjusting the ratio to achieve the desired consistency. The wash was then applied to the table, immediately followed by removal. This process created a subtle, even tone that complemented the black chairs.
Applying the wash and removing excess
I sprayed a mist of water onto the table before applying the wash, allowing it to glide smoothly and prevent excessive penetration into the wood. After applying the wash, I quickly removed any excess, ensuring an even application. The table was left to dry overnight, and the following day, I lightly sanded it with a 220 or 320-grit paper to smooth out any porous spots that may have appeared.
Sanding the table after the wash
After sanding, the table was ready for the final step: applying the top coat. I opted for a single coat of top coat, allowing the natural beauty of the wood's grain to shine through while providing a protective layer. The application process was meticulous, ensuring even coverage across the entire table. I ended up applying multiple coats of top coat to build a durable finish that would withstand daily use.
The finishing touch: Adding a custom detail to the table
To give the table a unique touch, I decided to create a custom detail along the skirt of the table. The surface was challenging to sand and strip, so I opted to leave the original stain. Using black paint, I carefully painted a single line around the edge of the table, adding an extra element of customization and enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Staging the finished table
After multiple coats of top coat and ample drying time, the table was finally ready to be staged. I enlisted the help of my mother to set up a beautiful display, showcasing the stunning transformation. The table's grain now popped through the paint, creating a modern, up-to-date look. The once-red table had been successfully transformed into a centerpiece that would undoubtedly impress any observer.
Conclusion
Refinishing furniture, especially chairs, can be a challenging but rewarding process. The Devil Chairs project showcased the transformational power of careful stripping, sanding, painting, and finishing. From the initial reluctance to paint chairs to the final stunning result, this project emphasized the importance of attention to detail and the unique customization opportunities that come with refinishing furniture. So, whether you're a fellow refinisher or an admirer of fine craftsmanship, I hope this journey through the devil chairs to stunning tables has inspired and motivated you.
