by Mike | Furniture
Chalk paint is known for its ability to turn any repurposed old furniture into something that is shabby chic. However, chalk paint does have some considerations that are a bit outside of its normal usage. Below we’ll have some chalk paint furniture ideas anyone can put to use.
Modern bedrooms and farmhouse kitchens are now incorporating chalk paint into their designs. Homeowners love its effect as it provides a lived-in textured look over the usual gloss or semi-gloss paint options. Chalk paint allows either furniture pieces or walls to have a little more character and can establish the mood of a room.
Things to Consider Before Using Chalk Paint
Practice using chalk paint on a scrap piece of paper before applying it to your project. Chalk paint is very different from other paint, and you don’t want to make mistakes on your furniture that you may have to fix later.
Chalk paint also dries quicker than normal paint, so you will have to move quickly before it dries altogether.
Painting With Chalk Paint
To create a solid color
- Use a solid color and apply it with your brush.
- Be sure to cover all the cracks and crevices in the piece of furniture.
- Once it has dried, return with a second coat.
- Make sure that it is applied uniformly through the entire piece.
- Allow to dry.
For a distressed or antique look, you need two different colors
- Apply a base coat to the entire area of your furniture.
- Dip a brush into the second color. Dab it into a cloth so that it is almost dry. This coat will visually create depth.
- Dry brush your second color over the first. Brush it over only the raised areas.
- Once both coats are fully dry, use sandpaper or a scrubbing brush to gently sand the corners and raised edges.
- Complete the look by sealing it in with paste wax to protect it.
Here are a few suggestions as to how to transform your room with chalk paint
Dress(er) it Up!
The misnomer is that chalk paint adds more of a vintage look to any piece of furniture. Not so! To dress up a dresser, chest of drawers, or armoire, give it a coat of chalk paint. Chalk paint doesn’t always have to provide a distressed look.
All you have to do is use a moody blue and add new handles. Then, you have updated the look of your dresser. Chalk paint furniture ideas sometimes aren’t what you expect, this is a great example of that.
Small, Yet Mighty!
For small pieces of furniture with drawers or a flat surface, chalk paint can make the piece very playful. This approach works on items that go in dining rooms, entryways, living rooms, or anywhere where you are looking to fill space.
Chalk paint adds that extra pop of color to the room without being too bold or overpowering. It creates that soft, subtle look without being overly noticeable. Conversely, it can add a bit of color to a neutral room without being overstated.
To create an even more dramatic look, if your table has drawers, people have placed faux vines, ivy, or greenery along with the drawer and had it hanging out a bit. This is a beautiful look for an entryway into a house. Since the only thing that people use the table for is usually keys and small items, the drawer will serve no direct purpose aside from decoration.
Built-in Beauty
You can add chalk paint to armoires, but differently than mentioned above. If you paint it the same color as the walls, or a close shade, it can appear as if you have high-end custom-built cabinets installed into your bedroom. This is an easy “cheat” visually.
This look provides a shabby elegance. It is not overly fancy but still elevates the look of the room. Chalk paint furniture ideas such as this one, are easy to apply when done correctly.
Captain of the Chalk Paint
If you have a captain’s bed in your house that needs an update, consider using chalk paint. Captain’s beds are a great way to increase storage space in a room. Creating a nautical room can be a natural progression with a bed such as this one.
To update the bed, use bluish-grey chalk paint for a nautical appearance. Add clear wax and brushed silver handles to complete the look.
Ombre Dresser
Giving a new life to a dresser can be both fun and exciting. All it takes is a little outside of the box thinking!
Ombre has been a hot item for several years now and is tying into the tie-dye movement currently being resurrected. To create an Ombre dresser, complete the following set of instructions:
- How many dresser drawers does the item have? This is how many shades of paint you will require to complete this look.
- Select the darkest color you like, then go up in incremental shades of the same color palate. Most ombre designs begin with a medium shade and end up in one that is close to white.
- Another way to do this is to find a paint color that you like and a bucket of white paint. Pour a bit of your main color into a plastic cup. Add white to each cup to make the color lighter.
- The first cup should be the main color plus 1 tbsp. of white, the second should have 2 tbsp. of white, and so on.
- The amount of white paint may need some adjusting depending on how much is required to cover the drawer. The contrast between the doors also comes into play.
- Test each color and allow it to dry before painting the entire area.
- Once the colors are mixed (or purchased, as the case may be), pull out all the drawers. Paint the front of each one.
- Once completed, paint the frame. Most people select white just to add contrast, but it can be any color you desire.
- Allow the dresser to dry, and you are done!
Historic Hutch
Give your hutch a retro makeover by incorporating these steps
- Take off the back of the hutch.
- Sand the front and top of the hutch to give it that distressed look.
- Apply your lightest color of paint to the front, sides, and top of the hutch. Avoid painting the trim.
- Remove the drawers and paint them a darker color. For a dramatic effect, add black hardware to the drawers.
- Once the main area has dried, paint the trim a dark color to highlight it and to visually create depth. You can reverse this as well by incorporating the distressing methods described above.
- Apply pasting wax to the front to seal in the effect.
- You can do the back in one of two ways. Some homeowners have removed the back and glued fabric to one side, then reattached it to the front. This is a wonderful way to play with texture. Others have painted it a dark solid color to add depth.
- For an additional flare, you can replace the glass with a patterned texture or add a texture over top of the glass to create a vintage look.
- Add a light at the top and marvel at the beauty of your new hutch.
Coco Country Grey Rustic Table
To create that farmhouse look with chalk painting, purchase a Country Grey and Coco chalk paint.
- The first coat should be Coco.
- After it dries, brush a layer of Country Grey diluted with water. The levels should be half and half.
- Once dried, use a medium grit sander to reveal most of the wood- mostly at the tabletop.
- To give a smooth appearance to the top of the table, follow up with a fine sanding block. Take it to the point of virtually burnishing the paint directing into the wood. It should shine even before applying wax.
- Seal with two coats of soft, clear wax. Then buff.
These are some very creative ways to use chalk paint furniture ideas in your home. The paint itself does not need to be boring at all. Chalk paint allows you more flexibility to do what you want with your furniture.
The great thing about chalk paint is that it doesn’t have a high or semi-gloss finish. Therefore, it works well when you want to give your furniture a distressed or antique look. The vibrancy is more muted, yet it adds a stunning effect to any room.
Painting a solid color adds a more muted feel to the furniture. It is a tone down from the walls but adds a subdued yet bold appeal. A great way to add fun to any piece is also to do an ombre. This is so easy and quick to do with chalk paint.
Creating that shabby chic or vintage look is incredibly easy with these chalk paint furniture ideas. It is as simple as adding two coats, sanding, and waxing. Plus, the benefit of chalk paint is that it dries quickly.
So, where will your imagination take you?
Check Out More Here – Grey Walls White Trim Living Room Decor – How to Do it Right
by Mike | Furniture
Despite what we see in the media, rocking chairs aren’t just for grandparents observing the world from their front porch. Today, rockers are available in a variety of styles and materials, making it possible for everyone to find one that suits their needs. Finding the best outdoor rocking chairs should be easy with this guide.
In this article, we’ll explore the best outdoor rocking chairs to help you decide whether a rocker is the seating option that you’ve been missing.
The History of Outdoor Rocking Chairs
The history of the rocking chair began in the 18th century. It is rumored that the rocking chair was invented by Benjamin Franklin, but in fact, the earliest rocking chair can be traced back to when Franklin was a child.
Rocking chairs originated as outdoor seating, specifically in gardens. The first design was a little different than the ones we use today, and it continued to change throughout the centuries.
The style of rocking chair we’re familiar with reached the height of its popularity in the 19th and 20th centuries, becoming a worldwide sensation. Although they’re no longer the most popular type of seating, rocking chairs are still widely made and continue to have their place in the home.
How to Choose Rocking Chairs
The rocking chair is considered a classic piece of furniture, making them easy to find. They are carried in almost every furniture store and are typically not too difficult to assemble.
However, with so many different options, it can be a challenge to choose the right rocking chair for you. Although the basic concept remains the same, there are a few variations that can make your rocking chair a haven of relaxation or a piece of clutter on your front porch.
Here are a few factors to consider:
- Location (indoor or outdoor)
- Material
- Size
- Style
Let’s take a closer look at these factors.
Material
If you plan on using your rocking chair outdoors, the material is the most important factor to consider. Even if it is under a covered porch, your outdoor rocking chair can still be vulnerable to harsh weather.
The best outdoor rocking chairs are made from resilient material so they can withstand the elements and remain in good condition for years to come. For the best durability, stay away from classic wood rocking chairs, such as oak and wicker.
Consider these factors when it comes to the best outdoor rocker material:
- Durability
- Weight
- Ongoing maintenance
- Comfort
- Wear and tear
- Price
One of the best materials for outdoor rocking chairs is teak. Teak is a type of hardwood that doesn’t easily dent or scratch, making it great for extended outdoor use. Unlike other types of wood, teak is durable and resilient because it produces its own oil. Teak is also resistant to the elements and won’t be easily affected by wind or rain, meaning you can keep it outdoors year-round.
That being said, teak requires a lot of maintenance in order to keep it looking fresh, which includes regular rubdowns and treatment with the right products. Because of its resilience, teak is one of the more expensive materials for outdoor furniture, including rocking chairs. Although teak doesn’t vary in color, you can always paint your rocking chair to give it a more personalized look.
Another sturdy outdoor material is high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is a synthetic resin commonly used to build outdoor furniture. The drawbacks to teak are the benefits of HDPE. It is easy to maintain and only needs to be wiped down with soap and water. It’s resistant to the elements and very sturdy, so you don’t have to worry about your rocker blowing away. Since HDPE is synthetic, you also have a wide range of choices when it comes to the color of your outdoor rocking chair.
Size
The next important factor to consider when choosing the best outdoor rocking chair for your home is the size of the chair.
Rocking chairs tend to be larger than other single-seat options. They require more space due to the rocking motion of the chair. You need to make sure there’s adequate space in front and behind the chair to allow the user to rock comfortably without hitting anything. If you choose to have more than one outdoor rocker, be sure to space them out sufficiently to allow both chairs to rock at the same time.
Height and weight should be considered when searching for the best outdoor rocking chair. Rocking chairs can vary in weight, ranging from 15-50 pounds. If you think you’ll be moving your outdoor rocking chair around a lot, you may want to opt for a lighter chair for easier mobility. If your chair will be facing a lot of wind, then it’s best to opt for a heavier, sturdier option.
For height, think about who will be sitting in the rocker. If it’s meant for a child, choose an outdoor rocking chair with a lower seat height to enable the child to get in and out of it easier. At the same time, if the rocking chair is intended for a tall person or someone who is elderly or has bad joints, choose a chair with a higher seat so they can get up from it without struggling too much.
Style
The basic concept of a rocking chair is pretty simple, and even the variations don’t differ too much. That being said, there are still different styles of outdoor rocking chairs that may make a difference when choosing the right one for your home.
The norm is a traditional rocking chair with a tall back, but modern rocking chairs come in several different styles. Everyone can find one that makes them feel the most comfortable.
The motion of each rocking chair differs. For example, there are nautical rocking chairs that are meant to emulate the motion of a boat at sea.
Some style options for outdoor rocking chairs include:
- Upright chair
- Wider seat
- Woven seat and back
- Contoured seats
Armrests are a big part of rocking chairs. After all, you need a comfortable place to place your arms as you rock back and forth. So, make sure the armrests of your outdoor rocking chair are at a comfortable height for you or whoever is sitting in it. A chair that’s too high or too low is a recipe for bad posture, and it’ll turn sitting in a rocking chair from a relaxing activity to a strain on your body.
Make It Your Own!
You always have the option of having your outdoor rocking chair custom-made, but this is an expensive option that can also take a long time. However, the good news is that just because you purchase an outdoor rocking chair as is, doesn’t mean you have to leave it that way.
Outdoor rocking chairs can be personalized to suit your individual needs. As mentioned, you have the option of painting your rocking chair any color you wish, even if you go with a wood one. This way, you can paint it to match your patio, deck, or other furniture.
An easy way to personalize your rocking chair is by adding some accessories to it, which can also make it more comfortable. This could be as simple as adding colorful cushions or a cozy throw that comes in handy on chilly evenings. You can even create a custom set by adding a matching side table beside your outdoor rocking chair.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best outdoor rocking chairs for your home can be a challenging task, especially if you’ve never owned a rocking chair and aren’t sure what you want from one.
The good news is that outdoor rocking chairs are generally similar in design with only slight variations in style. As long as you know what kind of chair your space can handle and understand the best types of material for outdoor rocking chairs, you’ll be able to make whichever one you choose a favorite part of your outdoor space.
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by Mike | Furniture
When designing an outdoor dining space for your home, it’s important to consider every last detail, from the theme you hope to achieve down to the type of chairs you want sitting around your outdoor dining table. If you are interested in beautiful, modern outdoor dining chairs but not sure what types of seating are ideal for your space, here are eight great tips to help you out.
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In this article, you will find:
- 8 Tips for Choosing Your Outdoor Dining Chairs
- Our Favorite Modern Outdoor Dining Chair Options
- Ways to Modernize the Look of Your Current Outdoor Dining Chairs
8 Tips for Choosing Your Outdoor Dining Chairs
When you choose your outdoor dining chairs, there is more to consider than how they look. You want to make sure the chairs are functional, durable, and versatile.
No one wants to create a backyard dining space that doesn’t feel comfortable or looks anything less than fabulous.
Here are 8 great tips to help you pick the chairs that will best fit your outdoor space.
1. Pick Durable Materials
Your outdoor chairs need to have what it takes to withstand a beating. Outdoor chairs are often pushed around, stood on, and frequently moved about. If you buy a flimsy plastic chair, you will probably have to replace it often.
Some durable chair options include:
- Aluminum
- Iron
- Steel
- Hard, treated wood
2. Consider Weather Conditions
Unlike indoor chairs, the ones you keep outside have to deal with various weather conditions, temperatures, and natural elements. When choosing chairs for your back patio, think about water-resistant, UV-protected, and rust-proof products.
Aluminum is one of the most popular materials for modern outdoor furniture. Aluminum is lightweight, withstands sunlight, rain, and bad weather conditions, and withstands rust better than a lot of other materials.
3. Think About Size
There are plenty of ways to make your chairs fit your space without having to abandon your look. Before choosing a chair for your outdoor space, make sure it will fit comfortably and won’t overcrowd your porch or be so small they are uncomfortable to sit on.
You should also factor in the weight of each chair. You don’t want to be chasing down your furniture on your neighbor’s lawn every time the wind picks up, but you also don’t want a chair so heavy it’s hard to move around.
Lastly, think about height. Do you need tall, barstool-type chairs or short, low-to-the-ground chairs? Be sure to measure your patio table before buying chairs to place underneath it.
4. Do They Match Your Decor?
When looking for modern outdoor dining chairs, you want a completely modern look that goes well with your dining table and other decor.
When choosing your chairs, make sure they match the color, design, and complete overall aesthetics of the rest of your outdoor space.
You can easily match furniture to your current decor, or you can wait to create your space until after you purchase your chairs. You can then choose rugs, table cloths, and other items that complement the colors and design of your chairs.
5. Choose Low Maintenance
Not only do you want chairs that are durable and can withstand nature, but you should also think about how much time and money you are willing to put into caring for your dining chairs.
While wicker patio furniture is one of the most sought-after options these days, they don’t hold up well in the elements and require a lot of care and maintenance to keep them in good condition.
Steel chairs are typically coated and sealed. Their surface is naturally easy to clean and care for, meaning you won’t have to worry about spills or rain.
6. Keep Budget in Mind
Regardless of what your budget is, there is something out there for everyone. With a little effort, you can find dining chairs that are beautiful, modern, and perfect for your outdoor setup.
While investing in a great patio set is always a little more beneficial, that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune on it.
Go into the store with a budget already in mind, but don’t settle for poor-quality chairs. Keep looking until you can find satisfactory products at an affordable price.
Here are a few great ways you can get quality furniture at a low-budget price:
- Shop for new furniture in the fall and winter seasons: After backyard BBQs and family picnics start to die down, retailers often place discounted prices on their outdoor furniture.
- Search for Coupons: Look for coupon codes or discounts online or in your local papers.
- Buy Second Hand: Hit up some yard sales or thrift stores where gently used items are priced very low.
7. Comfort is Key
Never make a final decision on your outdoor chairs until you have had the chance to try them out. It doesn’t matter how beautiful your modern outdoor space looks; if the chairs aren’t comfortable, you won’t be able to enjoy the time you spend there.
If you don’t have the time or ability to head out of the house to go to the store, check the ratings and reviews online and compare products before making a purchase.
8. Get Something That Makes You Feel Good
This last tip is probably one of the most important. No matter what chairs you choose to put in your outdoor dining area, make sure they make you happy. You are the one who will be using this area the most, so ensuring the space makes you feel good is vital.
Make a list of all your favorite designs, colors, and materials, and take your time going through each item to choose what feels right.
Our Favorite Outdoor Dining Chair Options
If you are still unsure what types of modern outdoor dining chairs to choose from, here is a list of the most popular, durable, and modern options.
Black Aluminum
As previously mentioned, aluminum makes for a great material to withstand outdoor elements. However, that is not the only great thing about this material. It also comes in an array of colors and designs, with black being one of the most popular when you’re looking for a modern style.
Acacia Wood
Acacia wood is one of the hardest woods available on the market and has beautiful, unique grain patterns and natural colors. As long as these chairs are maintained properly and treated with teak oil every two to three months, they can hold up to just about anything nature has in store.
Rattan
Rattan is another natural material that is not only beautiful but durable. This material is flexible, can withstand extreme temperatures, and naturally repels bugs (a huge bonus).
You can also easily paint rattan in whatever color you like, making it a perfect option for those going for bright, bold patio themes.
Light Blue Steel
Steel is another product that comes in all different colors, with light blue being a great option for anyone looking to complete a modern look.
Steel furniture can be molded and shaped to fit many different styles and looks, providing the perfect touch to a calm, contemporary backyard dining set.
Ways to Modernize the Look of Your Current Outdoor Dining Chairs
Are you going for a modern look but are not in a place where you can purchase a new set of chairs? Here are a few friendly tips to help you remodel whatever you have to give it a new, fresh, modern design.
Grab a Can of Paint
Spray paint is an ideal way to redo your wicker and outdoor metal furniture. Be sure to purchase the right product made for outdoor items.
Using spray paint is quick, effective, and gives you a wide variety of colors to choose from.
You can also use latex paint. Outdoor latex paint is easy to use, dries fairly quickly, and comes in vibrant colors that only require two coats for maximum effect.
Purchase Some Pillows
There is an endless variety of waterproof outdoor throw pillows in every design, size, shape, and color you could imagine. These pillows can quickly transform a basic outdoor dining chair into a modern place to sit and relax.
Buy Comfy Cushions
You can purchase comfy waterproof cushions that attach directly to your chairs. You can get them in tons of colors and designs, and you can choose between just a seat cushion or a seat and full-back style.
Summing Things Up
Everyone deserves to have a backyard dining space that makes them happy and looks just the way they imagined. If your dream is a modern backyard scheme, start by purchasing beautiful, modern outdoor dining chairs.
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