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How to Repaint a Barstool

Barstools are relatively inexpensive, yet versatile seating options for your home. Barstools work well at breakfast bars or in basements. You can easily find barstools with high-backs or with no back. Some stools offer cushioned seats, while others have plain wood seats. Some are contoured to fit your curves, and others are flat to let you slide around. Do not toss aside old barstools simply because the paint is wearing thin. Instead, refurbish them to extend their lives and your budget.

Things You'll Need

  • Spatula or putty knife
  • Wire brush
  • Sandpaper
  • Dust mask
  • Eye protection
  • Tack cloth
  • Rubber gloves
  • Paint stripper
  • Wood filler
  • Paintbrush
  • Primer
  • Paint
  • Sealer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scrape off loose paint with a stiff wire brush, spatula or putty knife.

    • 2

      Strip existing paint off the barstool with sandpaper while wearing a dust mask and eye protection. Wrap sheets of sandpaper around the legs and other small round sections and rub away the paint. Fold the sandpaper in half to reach into crevices.

    • 3

      Wipe the barstool down with a tack cloth to remove dust from the sanding process.

    • 4

      Apply a chemical paint stripper to remove stubborn paint remnants while wearing gloves rated to protect your hands from corrosive chemicals.

    • 5

      Fill small holes and dents with wood filler. Dry and sand smooth the filler according to manufacturer's specifications.

    • 6

      Apply a layer of primer to the chair with a small paintbrush. Allow to dry. Sand the primer with a fine-grit sandpaper.

    • 7

      Paint the stool with a semi-gloss paint in the color of your choice. Sand with a fine-grit sandpaper and apply a second coat of paint.

    • 8

      Seal the paint with a polyurethane sealer. Apply additional coats of polyurethane to match your desired level of sheen.