Revamp an old patio set

DIY enthusiast Meggan Lapham wanted to inject new life into the family’s old patio lounge suite; over time, the cushion seat covers had become dull and faded. Her husband Ernest tried dyeing the covers but that wasn’t a success.

Meggan had already completed a few projects using Annie Sloan paint and when she heard that it could just as easily be applied to fabric, she immediately set about testing the theory – with very pleasing results! “It’s so easy and so much fun – best of all, you don’t have to be a professional to get it right. I’d recommend this project to anyone who enjoys DIY home improvements,” she says. 

What she did...

Meggan bought four tins of Annie Sloan paint in the colour Napoleonic Blue, mixed it with a little water (500ml water to 1 litre paint) and painted it onto the fabric. She applied one coat, allowed it to dry and then did a few touch-ups to ensure a perfect finish.

Once the paint was completely dry, Meggan applied a coat of Annie Sloan Clear Wax with a cloth. The wax not only brings out the colour beautifully, but also gives the seat covers a leathery shine and ensures that the fabric is weatherproof.

This project should take about three to four hours – Meggan began in the morning and was able to sit back and admire her handiwork with a cup of tea that afternoon.

We asked the guru of chalk paint which fabrics are best suited to her product.

Q: Do you need to add water when using the paint on fabric?

A: Yes, it’s important to dilute the paint so that it’s easier to apply – and to avoid any clumps.

Q: Do you need to finish off the project with wax?

A: You don’t have to wax after painting; once dried, the paint won’t come off onto clothing. However, you can wax for a soft leathery finish. Never wax velvet!