LEVEL: EXPERIENCED
Weather and sun can fade your plastic patio chairs’ appearance over time, but that doesn’t mean you have to throw them out and replace them. You can use spray paint to renew and brighten them up. This is a simple weekend project for anyone with any level of DIY experience. Just follow these steps to get the job done right.
Step 1: Clean the Chair Wash plastic furniture thoroughly, using hot water, an all-purpose cleaner, and a sponge. If furniture has been outside for a long period of time or has stubborn stains from mold or mildew, use a cleaner with ammonia. Spray it down from all angles using a garden hose. Dry each plastic chair using a towel and then let each sit to air dry completely.
Step 2: Prepare Plastic Chair for Painting Prepare before painting your plastic chairs by covering any non-plastic surfaces, such as metal legs, with painter’s tape. Choose a good workspace with plenty of ventilation, preferably outside, and cover the floor or ground with drop cloths or newspapers. Some plastic chairs may require a light sanding before painting, particularly if they have been painted before. You only need to lightly scuff the surface so that the primer and paint will adhere well. Use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge to go over the entire surface to be painted. Before sanding, test out your abrasive on an inconspicuous part of the chair to make sure that it doesn’t create visible and irreparable scratches. If you’re unsure, avoid sanding and just skip to priming.
Step 3: Prime the Chair Use an outdoor primer formulated for use on plastic, such as True Value EasyCare® Premium Décor Spray Enamel. Start by shaking the can thoroughly and then spraying the entire chair, applying in a sweeping motion about 12 to 18” from the surface.
Safety Alert! When using spray paint and primer, wear safety glasses and a dust mask for protection from paint mist. Let the primer dry for the amount of time recommended on the packaging. Priming your chair allows you to paint the chair using any kind of spray paint. This is helpful if you want to use a particular color not available in paints made for plastic. Helpful Tip You can also skip priming by painting with True Value X-O Rust Paint & Primer in One.
DUNSMUIR HARDWARE
Here is an unrelated tip: Dunsmuir Hardware is for Sale! The present owners have operated the store for over 40 years and are ready to pass it on to a new owner who appreciates how special it is.
What we can offer is a “turn-key” business opportunity. A buyer can step into an established and professionally managed business and take off with it. New owners and new ideas would grow the business into new areas. We want to sell the business with its established reputation and customer base, the building, all the fixtures and equipment (computers, pipe threading equipment, custom paint tinting, tools, and supplies), and all of the antiques that are part of the image of the business. Our antique collection is legendary and without exaggeration, there are thousands of dollars’ worth of antique tools, hardware, housewares, documents, pictures, cans, and bottles. They belong to the store and will go with it.
Want to learn more about this amazing business opportunity? We are open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday to Saturday and 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sundays. Come and see us we are at 5836 Dunsmuir Avenue Dunsmuir, California, or call (530)235-4539.