DIY Designs for a Sponge Upholstered Chair

Use a lint-free rag to wipe down the surface of the chair. Remove any dust, debris, animal hair or lint that may have settled on the chair.

Spray down the surface of the upholstered chair, so it is damp to the touch. The upholstery should feel wet when the surface is touched, but no water should be dripping on the floor.

Mix together equal parts of jewel-toned paint and fabric medium in a paint cup. Thin the mixture by adding water. The mixture should nearly transparent.

Apply a coat of paint to the chair by dipping a foam brush or makeup application sponge into the paint mixture. Rub the paint onto the chair, working in the direction of the fabric. Coat the entire chair with paint and allow the paint to dry.

Apply another coat of paint. Allow the chair to dry completely. Gently rough up the surface of the painted chair using a medium-grit sanding sponge.

Apply a coat of acrylic paint to the surface of the chair, using a clean foam brush or a makeup application sponge.

Create another paint mixture by mixing together equal parts of white latex paint and fabric medium. Thin the mixture by adding water.

Center the stencil on the back or the seat of the chair. Use a clean foam brush or makeup sponge to gently dab the white paint mixture onto the stencil, applying the white pattern over the jewel-toned upholstery. Repeat as necessary to complete the desired pattern. Allow the paint to dry completely.

Dab white acrylic paint to the pattern using a clean foam brush or makeup sponge. Allow the paint to dry completely before using or displaying the chair.