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How to Paint a Child's Rocking Chair

Painting a child's rocking chair is rewarding and economical. An unfinished rocking chair is inexpensive and lends you the opportunity to customize its look to your decor. Consider the theme or style you wish to achieve when picking paint colors. Use your imagination to choose stenciling, personalization with a name, sports images, animals or any other design that suits your taste. The project will take you three days to complete. When finished, you'll have created an heirloom your child will enjoy for a lifetime.

Things You'll Need

  • Rocking chair
  • Sandpaper
  • Acrylic paint primer
  • Paint brushes
  • Latex paint
  • Enamel paint
  • Stencils
  • Painting sponges
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Instructions

  1. How to Paint a Child's Rocking Chair

    • 1

      Sand your chair with 100-grit sandpaper. Sand in the direction of the grain of the wood to create a smooth finish, then wipe the chair clean of all dust when you're done.

    • 2

      Paint your rocking chair with an acrylic paint primer using a paint brush. Use even brushstrokes and make sure to have complete coverage. Allow six to 12 hours for the primer to dry.

    • 3

      Paint the chair with your paint brush and a latex paint of your color choice. Use your brush in one direction, up and down, not side to side. After you have thoroughly covered the surface, allow it to dry overnight.

    • 4

      Sand the rocking chair again after the first coat of paint has dried. Use a light sanding motion to smooth out any imperfections in the paint and then clean away any dust left behind.

    • 5

      Apply the final coat of paint to your chair using the same techniques as in the previous coat. Paint evenly with consistent brush strokes to create a professional, finished look. Allow your chair to dry overnight.

    • 6

      Decorate your rocking chair with enamel paint to match the theme of your child's room. Use sponges or artist's paint brushes to stencil or freehand designs your child will like.