Refinishing Kitchen Chairs and Stools

A little time and elbow grease will help give tired chairs a fresh look.
White Transitional Kitchen With Blue and Green Accents

White Kitchen With Blue, Green and Floral Accents

Using three different colors to separate three different elements of the kitchen layers the room, and makes a plate of oranges jump out even more.

Photo by: Andrea Schumacher

Andrea Schumacher

Using three different colors to separate three different elements of the kitchen layers the room, and makes a plate of oranges jump out even more.
By: Gina Hannah

So you've got some kitchen chairs that are sturdy and made in a style you like, but the finish leaves a little to be desired? No worries. Refinishing kitchen chairs and stools can transform them into furniture pieces you'll be proud to have in your home.

Kitchen Seating Options: Ideas for Chairs and Stools

See All Photos

Shop This Look

Wood, metal, even plastic chairs can be refinished, if you know the proper tool and paints to use. The most common type of chair to refinish, and perhaps the easiest, is wood. If your chairs are sturdy but just need a fresh look, you can strip them to the bare wood and either paint them or stain and seal them to allow the natural beauty of the wood to show. You'll need to clean and sand the wood, then apply a stripping agent to dissolve the remaining paint or stain. Then, after cleaning off the stripping chemicals, you'll apply stain and sealer, according to the package directions. If you've decided to paint your chairs, apply a primer then 2-3 coats of paint in your chosen color.

If you're refinishing a metal chair, you may have rust that needs to be removed. This will often be the case with cast iron chairs, as these are more likely to rust than aluminum or steel. To clean the chairs, use a metal polish such as Noxon, which is available at most hardware stores. You can wipe down your chair with this ammonia-based polish, and gently scrape where the rust is easy to remove. Avoid scrubbing the pieces with steel wool, as that can leave tiny scratches in the metal and invite further oxidation. You can use bronze or brass wool, which is softer than steel wool.

If you want to paint your newly clean metal chairs, you'll need to prepare them first by giving them a good washing to remove any oily residue that has accumulated, then roughing up the metal so that the paint will adhere to the surface. If your chairs are assembled with screws, you'll need to take the pieces apart and remove the cushions, so the spray paint will cover all of the nooks and crannies. Spray with a primer first, even if the paint you'll be using has primer. This will keep you from having to use several cans of paint. Expect to apply at least two coats, letting the paint dry completely between treatments.

You can also paint plastic chairs. Clean the chairs first, then use a fine-grit sand paper to rough up the glossy surface. After wiping away the grit, use an enamel spray paint that has been formulated for use on plastic. Apply two to three thin coats of the paint, allowing about an hour to dry between each coat, following instructions on the can.

Next Up

How to Restore a Wooden Bowl

Antique wooden dough bowls, salad bowls and cutting boards can last a lifetime if properly cared for. Learn how to refinish vintage wooden bowls to make them food-safe, and how to keep them properly maintained.

How to Refinish Acacia Wood Outdoor Furniture

A more budget-friendly option to pricey teak, acacia wood outdoor furniture is easy to find — and easy to love — thanks to the wood's rich honey-hued finish when new. But over time, acacia wood weathers to a dull, splotchy look with a rough texture. Give your old, weathered outdoor furniture a smooth, like-new finish with our acacia wood refinishing tips.

20 Stylish Ergonomic Office Chairs for Every Budget in 2023

Outfit your home office or dorm with one of these supportive office chairs.

How to Whitewash Wood: Whitewashing and Pickling Techniques

Easily brighten and add rustic charm to furniture and a variety of wood surfaces with these budget-friendly whitewashing and pickling techniques.

Resurfacing Kitchen Counters

What's the difference between resurfacing and refinishing kitchen counters? HGTV has the answer.

The Best Patio Chairs for Every Style and Budget

These weather-resistant chairs are just what you need to transform your outdoor space into a summer oasis.

40+ Stylish Outdoor Chaise Lounges for Every Budget

Turn your outdoor space into a resort-style oasis with one iconic chair.

How to Reupholster an Arm Chair

Upholstery can be an intimidating project, but it seems more complicated than it actually is. A thrift store arm chair with simple lines, a sturdy frame and good padding makes a perfect subject for a novice upholsterer.

Refinishing Kitchen Cabinet Ideas

Get the feel of a whole new kitchen with beautifully refinished kitchen cabinets.

Black Gothic Halloween Front Porch Decor

Dress up your front entry with this elegant but creepy floral seating area. All your guests and ghouls will want to stop and sit for a spell.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.