Want the look of rich, luxurious leather on a thrift store budget? This post will show you how to paint on fabric to make it look like leather.
My dear friend gave me these chairs. After a short stay in her garage the damn dogs ruined the cushions but all other fabric was intact and the wood on the chairs was in great shape. I was thrilled to have them!
I originally had the seat cushions done in the same fabric as my love seat but after a short time I realized I had made a mistake.
I wanted more of a gray, leather-y look.
So, after I saw this tutorial from my friend Nancy I decided to (gasp) paint the cushions.
I have to say people were shocked. When I posted the picture below on facebook I received a few fast and furious text from friends saying –WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?! But it was too late to turn back.
What I learned from Nancy’s tutorial is water is the key!
Your fabric should be damp when you start and you should continually be misting as you paint.
After your fabric is painted you will apply wax. I used the Wax Buffing Brush that attaches to my drill along with 1. Clear and 2. Dark wax for my cushions.
These 3 items are pretty much everything you need to finish the project. But in case you want to add your own supplies, you are welcomed.
Adding dark wax is what really gives the fabric the look of aged leather! After each wax application I buffed with my buffer .
People always mistake these cushions for leather. The aren’t as soft as leather but the are comfy!
And the price tag just can’t be beat!
So, What do you think about painting fabric?
Wanna try?
Before you leave, visit one of this link in case you need more furniture hacking inspirations: