3 Easy Steps for a Metal Folding Chair Makeover

Restore those old folding chairs into works of art in 3 easy steps with a metal folding chair makeover.

As the the warmer season is approaching, it will soon be time to pull out outdoor furniture for that perfect exterior living space. If you are like me, you might be inwardly cringing at the idea of anyone sitting on your old plastic or metal chairs. Let me show you how to take that old chair from ugly to stunning with a metal folding chair makeover in 3 easy steps.

Easy Project - Chair Restoration

I had 20 spider-infested and rusting metal folding chairs sitting in my shed. They really should have been put into a garage sale, but my husband indulged me and has moved these chairs from house to house. We have also lent these out to neighbors in need of additional seating.

It's hard to throw away old chairs when you are always in need of extra seating for special occasions and family gatherings each year. This year however, when we pulled them out of storage to use for a party they were especially disgusting. Embarrassment prompted me to do a quick repair for party-ready chairs.

Metal Folding Chair Makeover in 3 Easy Steps

Supplies for Metal Folding Chair Makeover

• Cleaning solution
• Scrubber
• 150 Grit sandpaper
• Drop cloth or cardboard
• Clean cloth for wiping chairs down
• Rustoleum spray paint

Clean Your Chairs - Step 1

The first thing to do in order to fix these unattractive chairs is giving them a good cleaning. If you have a metal frame or a plastic one then the cleaning should be pretty easy compared to a chair frame with a piece of fabric.

The easiest way to clean your chairs is by taking them all outside and using a hose to spray off with water. If needed, grab a scrubber and cleaning solution like a dish soap to give your chairs an extra good scrubbing.

Wait for your chairs to dry in the sun or you can use a towel to dry them off.

Prep Work - Step 2

When your chairs are dry, use cardboard boxes or drop cloths to set under them. This will help to keep your work area contained to one spot.

Using 150 grit sand paper, rough up the finish and sand any imperfections on the chair frames and seats. Wipe down the chairs with a damp cloth to remove any grime and dust.

Paint Your Metal Folding Chairs - Step 3

Make sure you are in a well ventilated area before you start the painting portion of this simple DIY project. I highly suggest doing this outside. Then set up the chairs and space them a few feet apart on cardboard boxes. I didn't remove any little screws or rubber stoppers from the chair legs, but instead left everything as is.

When applying your first coat of paint, try to use long and even sprays approximately the same distance away from the chair. Start at the top and then work your way down the rest of the chair.

Painting Tips

Don't spray too close or the paint will get drippy. Likewise, if you spray too far away you will miss the chair. These Rustoleum products are great at sticking to the chair metal.

For this metal folding chair makeover, you will also want to make sure you have enough cans for multiple coats of spray paint. Each chair required 2 coats with the exception of the lime green. Since it was a lighter color I did extra coats of paint on it. One can of spray paint covered 2 folding chairs.  

Allow plenty of time for these chairs to dry before using as extra seats. Read the label on your spray paint for best results. Use these same principles to apply paint with plastic chairs.

Don't be embarrassed any longer by old seat backs covered with rust looking like they belong at a yard sale. This metal folding chair makeover is sure to be a hit at your next party and restore your outdoor furniture to its former glory. All those extra guests will be thoroughly impressed!

For more great ideas on creating outdoor seating, look here. You can also try making your own DIY wooden porch swing bench to change up your furniture.

If you are looking for an update to dining room chairs or chairs that have old fabric, look no further than this wood seat tutorial.

Happy DIYing!

Brooke