How to Paint a Wooden Chair Gold

Lay down a tarp in your work area, whether it's indoors or out. If you're working indoors, use the center of the room so you don't accidentally spray windows or walls.

Rough up the existing finish on the wooden chair with a piece of #3 steel wool, using it like sandpaper. This will scratch up old varnish, shellac and other nonporous finishes, giving the primer something to adhere to.

Wipe the chair down with a damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, particles and fibers. Let the surface dry thoroughly.

Tip the chair on its back. Shake the spray primer thoroughly. Hold the nozzle 12 inches away from the surface and depress it, moving from one side of the chair bottom to the other in long, smooth strokes, never targeting one area long enough to cause drips.

Spray the inside of the chair legs next, using the same distance and long strokes. This is good practice for doing the more visible parts of the chair. Tip the chair up so it's on its feet. Shake the can of primer again, then spray the top, back and sides of the chair, working your way all the way around. Let the primer dry for at least two hours, until it is not tacky to the touch.

Spray the chair as in Steps 4 and 5, using the gold spray paint instead of the primer. Allow it to dry to the touch, then examine the finish and touch up any areas you may have missed. Let the chair dry overnight.

Finish by spraying with a clear coat of acrylic. This will protect the gold finish and keep it from rubbing off on clothing or other furniture.