Turning Micro-Suede Into the Look of Leather With Paint

This is one of those times I wish you could just pop by my living room and see for yourself the transformation that happened to this foot stool/storage cube. I can describe the process for painting micro-suede here, but I know you won't get the full effect of the finish product; and it is truly amazing!
I have been wanting a foot stool to go with my oversized armchair in my living room for quite awhile. As with the rest of my projects, I didn't want to spend a ton of money, but wanted something that looked classic and beautiful. After searching for some time, I finally came across this very bright, very teenager-ish turquoise storage cube at the Salvation Army and for some reason if felt "right". It was in great condition and only $10 so I figured why not and carted it home.
I set out to paint the micro-suede fabric with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in Pure White. The first two coats got pretty sucked up by the fabric and made it kind of stiff and weird feeling. I decided to keep with it though and see what would happen if I added a few more coats. I ended up putting 4 coats of the white on it and I couldn't believe what happen; the fabric actually began to take on a leathery look and feel! It was truly remarkable.
Once I saw how the foot stool looked in the space, I knew it had to be brown NOT white. I had some brown latex paint so gave it another two coats in that colour and I loved the look! After all of the painting was finished I gave the entire cube a coat of antiquing wax to give it some variation in colour and depth. The wax dried up beautifully and gave it a very supple look and feel.
I couldn't (and still can't) believe the outcome... the little turquoise cube had magically transformed into a beautiful leathery looking foot stool. I felt like it was the story of the ugly duckling and the swan all over again! I sooo wish that you could actually reach in and touch it because my words will never do justice to how much the stool looks and feels like leather.


I still can't believe that this $10 cube turned into such a beautiful piece; way beyond what I could have imagined. Give it a whirl, I would highly recommend it!
Recreated Designs
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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  • Darci Hemleb Thompson Darci Hemleb Thompson on Mar 20, 2016
    I have never heard of antiquing wac. Can you post a pic of the jar/can etc or give me the brand and sku?
  • Doreen Doreen on Mar 20, 2016
    Absolutely love it, looks like leather, but my question is about the gorgon fabric chair, where did you get it?? I'm in love w/it! Fabric is so so pretty!!!
  • Judith Miller Judith Miller on Mar 20, 2016
    Absolutely gorgeous! Did you spray the fabric with water before painting? I have heard of the spay first method but understood the fabric stayed pliable. I really like the leather look and wonder if dry painting is the secret. Thank for sharing
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