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How to Paint Metal Lawn Chairs

Metal furniture is susceptible to rust especially if it is placed outdoors, since it comes in contact with moisture and other natural elements. Painting is a cost-effective method to give your rusted metal lawn chairs a new life. A coat or two of latex or oil-based paint will give them a fresh, neat look while creating a seal to protect the furniture for years.

Things You'll Need

  • Newspapers
  • Safety goggles
  • Face mask
  • Metal brush
  • Damp cloth
  • Masking tape
  • Metal primer
  • Thinner
  • Oil-based paint
  • Paintbrush
  • Paint roller
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Instructions

  1. How to Paint Metal Lawn Chairs

    • 1

      Select a suitable place to paint the metal chairs. It is best to do this outdoors to prevent inhaling fumes from the paint. Place newspapers down in the area you will be working and put the chairs on them.

    • 2

      Scrub old chairs with a metal brush to remove traces of paint, rust or dirt. Check all areas of the chairs, including the back, bottom and under the armrest. Wipe away the residue with a damp cloth and allow it to dry for 10 to 15 minutes.
      Wipe new chairs thoroughly with a damp cloth to remove any dust, dirt or debris. Allow the chairs to dry completely.

    • 3

      Cover any motif or design that you want to preserve with a layer or two of masking tape.

    • 4

      Spray each chair with metal primer, covering all the sides, corners and edges completely. Do not forget to spray the legs and the base as well. Allow chair to dry or twenty minutes before applying another coat.

    • 5

      Follow label instructions to mix some thinner to the oil paint before applying it. Oil paints harden quickly, making it difficult to use them. Thinners help make their texture consistent and even.

    • 6

      Apply paint to each chair with a good quality paintbrush, or use a roller for an even look. Allow paint to dry for 15 minutes before applying another coat. Repeat the process until you get the desired look.
      Allow chairs to dry completely between coats. Let them dry overnight in a protected area before placing them back on your lawn.