Chalk painting an upholstered chair

Question

I've read in a couple of blogs and posts that chalk painting fabric is not that bad. Has anyone done it that doesn't like the feel? What are the pros and cons?
I have this velvet chair and I'm considering painting it. I will recover the cushion but considering painting the rest.  I'm hesitant as I don't want to ruin the chair completely. I'm trying to avoid having to redo the entire chair as its a daunting task. Doable but it is time and labor intensive. 
Thanks in advance.

Janet Pizaro · Answer

You can read the pros and cons on anne sloans chalk paint website and Thepurplelady.com.

Amy · Answer

I've done it with Fusion Paint and it works amazing. Light sanding after it dries and feels just like new fabric

SK on Elderberry · Answer

I have had such fun painting upholstery. And I am surely not an expert. But..I love the fine leather feel of the finish. If you are looking for a soft fabric feel I have never been able to succesfully accomplish that with chalk paint. You can see the fun I have had. http://www.hometalk.com/diy/paint/furniture/see-how-she-saved-these-disgusting-old-velvet-chairs-6653608 http://www.hometalk.com/diy/living-room/furniture/chair-upholstery-makeover-5447676 http://www.hometalk.com/diy/paint/furniture/painted-furniture-chair-hand-painting-floral-4170494 http://www.hometalk.com/diy/paint/furniture/sk-and-g-d-gunderson-designs-painted-upholstery-7219560 SK on Elderberry

Patricia · Answer

I would suggest finding a pillow in a similar fabric and testing it first to make sure you like the result. I was intrigued by painting upholstery, too. I tried it out on a (free) project chair. It worked out and has held up well. But I think the final result depends on the fabric you are starting with. The fabric I had to work with was heavy woven/texture with a raised pattern. I did not sand after painting because of the raised pattern so I cannot speak to how the sanding would make a difference. I applied a soft wax after the paint dried and the end result reminded me of an oil cloth finish. Again different fabric might give different results. I've included a before/after photo below, or you can view more photos on my blog: http://theblacksheepshoppe.blogspot.com/2015/08/painting-upholserted-furniture-with.html Good luck with your project!

D · Answer

When I bought chalk paint to paint a chair, the lady (and painter) said it doesn't work well with velvet type cloths. Seems because of the deeper nap it just doesn't take as well. But it works on other fabrics I saw in her shop. I agree, test first and see if you like the results.

Elizabeth Dion · Answer

I recently chalk painted a love seat that had a brocade type design in the fabric.  It was an ugly gold color and I painted it a slate grey.  The texture of the painted couch can be compared to sitting on a leather sofa now.  I love it and have received a number of compliments on the transformation.  I would do it again in a heartbeat.  Love chalk paint!!!

Mish Volonino · Answer

Painting over velvet?????

Bernice H · Answer

Ha! Do you all remember Hildy painting a chair on Trading Spaces? The world gasped,and threw figurative tomatoes at her!!! Not that long ago....look at us now! @ Miriam...do you remember that?

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Chalk painting an upholstered chair

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