How To Paint Fabric To Look Like Leather

How To Make Fabric Look Like Leather | 90's Wing Chair Makeover
Do you have an old fabric chair that's super dated? I have the perfect solution! With a little paint, you can turn it into a high-end leather [looking] beauty! I absolutely L•O•V•E today's makeover and I can't wait to hear what YOU think! Here's what I started with -- this floral wingback chair I bought back in the '90s...
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Supplies/Materials Used 🤗
Terracotta -- dixiebellepaint.com/terracott...
Chocolate -- dixiebellepaint.com/chocolate...
VanDyke Glaze -- dixiebellepaint.com/van-dyke-...
Wooster 3" Brush -- amzn.to/3hHK8yy
Tissue Paper -- amzn.to/334i6ZR
Sanding Pad -- dixiebellepaint.com/sanding-s...
Brown Wax -- dixiebellepaint.com/new-and-i...

[@norsepunk1075]

You can mist with rubbing alcohol to help the paint to sink in better lowers the surface tension of the paint and allows it to flow better

[@Connie_From_AZ]

Good idea, I think the alcohol would work like a disinfectant kind of *(extra protection from possible mold growth and odors)* say from the moisture put in the foam material?

[@jessican.cintronlopez2470]

Absolutely beautiful, Wow!!

[@amyrobinson4535]

I just tried this over the weekend on the bottom cushion of a chair. I have NEVER tried to do this before and it turned out great! Thank you for the detailed video - I watched it several times before starting and played through each step during the process. I just ordered more supplies so that I can continue on to the rest of the chair!!! I can't get over how wonderful it turned out!!!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Oh, I'm SO glad! I was just as shocked as you the first chair I did...lol. It still looks great and it's been used for years!

[@amyrobinson4535]

@@SalvagedInspirations Just finished the first chair! Here's the before and after! Starting the second one! Well it won't let me post the pics :o(

[@SalvagedInspirations]

@@amyrobinson4535 Bummer bc I'd love to see! Feel free to email me Amy! :)

[@gilliandouglas1140]

Looks brilliant

[@JulesSt]

I love this! Amazing job! You are inspiring me. Thank you.

[@deniselarocque9804]

FANTASTIC!

[@dayshaargrow7]

Thank you so much! Been wanting to redo my dining chairs for the longest, and didn't want the process to be so difficult. This is just what I needed.

[@julieadamo9987]

Thank you so much for the amazing descriptive tutorials you offer to us! Bless your heart! ❤

[@thissouthernhome2200]

Wow that looks amazing

[@dianepettiford4774]

Beautiful!!!

[@theresaschlentner4769]

Wow! I want to try this method

[@pandawatson1719]

Love Love the "faux" leather chair!! Can't wait to go to the thrift store to see what I can find!!! Thanks for sharing

[@effortlesslydupree4733]

This Is Beautiful

[@gigi-jeff]

Thanks! Love the paper technique! It adds a more authentic look

[@jafallica]

Wow, that’s amazing!❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks, my friend! 🤗

[@queenprice3630]

Absolutely beautiful

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks so much!

[@stuartrichardson5377]

I loved the transformation of that chair so much that I'm going to do it on an old sofa and matching chaise. Great video.

[@debra2415db]

It look's amazing!!!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks Debra!

[@bassmadouhan5310]

I did it fallowing your instruction yay it’s amazing thank you so much

[@marysincheff280]

I love it! Thanks for showing us how to do it!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks and my pleasure! :)

[@autherineekwere4705]

Beautiful

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you! :)

[@hithere7282]

So beautiful

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you!

[@mornat4638]

😮amazing...an elegant look😍

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks Natalie! x

[@TisforTough]

Wow! You make it look easy and give great instructions.. Thank you!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Aw, thank you... and thanks for watching! :)

[@lanam.3386]

Oh my goodness girl!!!!! This is a wonderful idea ❣️

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks Lana! x

[@litlgran]

Just beautiful! Thank you for a very thorough tutorial! Love it!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you!

[@TheKyley100]

Fantastic job! I’m going to find a granny chair at the thrift store and do the same thing!! Wow!

[@harjith.d.bubber]

Amazing transformation !!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you! :)

[@renestevenson8119]

Awesome. Love it

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@nevertheless5456]

Terrific, Beautiful 🤩

[@LivingGood777APS]

Incredible! Great job!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks Anthony!

[@debbiemarkgraf6901]

TFS!! BEAUTIFUL ❤️!! I LOVE USING DIXIE BELLS PRODUCTS!!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks! x

[@crashman6672]

The chair looks great

[@randyfernando4442]

That is beautiful 🙀 👍🏻👍🏻

[@lizhoward9754]

One word: WOW!! Amazing!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks Liz!

[@patriciahoffmann1201]

Gorgeous Denise!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you!! XOXO

[@PrettyPuppy45]

Thank you so much!! I've been trying to figure out a way to make regular fabric appear more leathery (because things like vinyl and faux leather are far too expensive for my college budget) and I can't wait to try this out!!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Can't wait for you to try too... have fun! :)

[@andreatrepasburgess7551]

Looks so great and like leather I love it

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks Andrea!

[@andreatrepasburgess7551]

Salvaged Inspirations one more question did you wait 30 days for the wax to cure ? I am new to this and I love the Dixie bell paint I have a black ottoman and chair I want to do in black , I like the way you did water with paint I think this works well and the type of brush , the crunch part of making it soft is where I am a bit scared about 😊 thanks again

[@courtneyhirsch5293]

Your chair turned out beautiful, thanks for sharing! 🥰

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you, Courtney. Thanks for watching. :)

[@wendyhammond2957]

Wow I love this!! Im trying this myself! Thank you for sharing!😊💕

[@SalvagedInspirations]

I'd love to hear how it works out for you Wendy! :)

[@wendyhammond2957]

@@SalvagedInspirations I will definitely let you know for sure!😊 I was so excited to have found your tutorial , you make it look so easy ! And the results were Awesome! Just what I was looking for!Thank You So Much!🤗💕

[@shelleywheeler7811]

Love it

[@ginaredscott4602]

Amazing tutorial. I’ll be doing this for sure. We love your channel!!! Thank you! You’re sooooo inspiring!!! 🙌🏼💯❤️

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks so much!!! XOXO

[@bonniesullivan6011]

It’s awesome

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks :)

[@christiemosley2796]

Phenomenal

[@anniegoodman5077]

Awesome tutorial! It looks just like my saddle leather chair.

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks, Annie! It was a fun project. :)

[@infinityreadings008]

looks great !!👍

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@charlotteroig9567]

Really great job.

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you Charlotte! x

[@miralukovic8958]

wau, very good job, thanks for caring

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks Mira!

[@ind_milsimp4551]

Superb❤

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thanks 🤗

[@tmlovesJesus]

Oh yes, I originally found you several years ago for a do it yourself chalk paint recipe. Glad I found you now on KZbin

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Yaaay! So happy you're here Tina Marie! XOXO

[@sandponics]

I am currently converting an old school bus into a motor home, and intend to experiment with lining the interior walls with calico and batting and then using your technique to paint the calico to resemble leather.

[@jeaninewalsh5120]

Hello, Thank you for doing this video I just found it this morning. I like how thorough you were throughout the video! It turned out great It looks exactly like leather. I've been wanting to paint a leather chair because if faded in the sun I have it in the sunroom. I'll go to try these techniques. That is actually the color of my leather chair. I appreciate you sharing the other chair that you have in your office because we never get to see how The pieces hold up like you said. That's her held up great!!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

And just an update, this one is holding up amazing too. I have it in my bedroom in the corner as a reading chair. It doesn't get used everyday - but a fair amount and it still looks and feels great. I hope you give yours a try. Its a fun project!

[@marial5198]

Hi Denise, I love how your project turned out and I am going to try your techniques and materials to do the same to the cushions of 2 island chairs that came with the house we bought. They are in great shape - no need to reupholster- but look a bit dirty and dated. I am thinking of painting the frame black or copper (its metal). I am imagining it will go well with the cushions painted leather-like. 😃 thanks again so much! Happy Holidays!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

That sounds amazing! I'd love to hear how it all works out for you. :)

[@sylviabrown6617]

Awesome

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank you!

[@blorac9869]

I've seen painted faux leather and it wasn't a pretty sight! Your work is fantastic, TYVM!

[@joanieminton5609]

💓💓💓💓💓💓it!!

[@anywolly5478]

I'm shook.

[@jodyslater6969]

I wish in Australia we had the variety of chalk paint, waxes etc that you guys have. I am about to attempt my first chair makeover, watching and getting lots of tips from everyone!!

[@nikkieyeque]

Agree. It's tricky to get an idea of alternative paint & wax when a brand is shown, rather than explaining what type of paint is used. You can get Anne Sloan paint and wax in Australia, but it's quite expensive. I don't know if normal acrylic/latex paint can be used for this purpose instead.

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Have fun with your chair, Jody! I hope it turns out fabulous. :)

[@SalvagedInspirations]

@@nikkieyeque I've used a variety of brands and I know AS Chalk Paint works beautifully for this technique. If you'd like to try a normal acrylic/latex water-based paint, possibly a Fabric Medium could help. ?? If you’re not familiar with this product, Fabric Medium is a milky liquid. You add it to a water-based latex or acrylic paint prior to painting textiles. Its purpose is to keep the fabric feeling soft and flexible. There are a number of brand names to choose from like Martha Stewart, Plaid, Delta, Liquitex, and Americana to name a few. :)

[@katescarratt4267]

@@nikkieyeque I've just watched a video showing how to paint fabric chair seats with latex paint mixed with equal amount of fabric conditioner. Spray mist with water to damp the fabric, apply the paint mixture with a paintbrush. Leave to dry thoroughly between coats. Finish off with beeswax. Apparently this doesn't transfer to clothes, so you can sit on the seats with confidence. I don't know who the creator in the video was, but she's called Deirdre.

[@samiam369]

Hi, I'm wondering what the texture is like - if it feels like leather/faux leather. Thanks!

[@angelologanwolverine4252]

F A N T A S T I C O ! ! ! dall' Italia :-)

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Thank YOU! :)

[@LadyCove]

🤩🤩🤩

[@reniehandler2595]

I'm here in 2022 and was just wondering how your brown leather chair is holding up? It looks great! Any advice on how to paint OVER already painted fabric chairs? I want to paint the fabric a differenet color and am not quite sure how to do that? Thank you! Have a great day!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Hi Renie! It's holding up AMAZING! I don't use it on a daily basis but there is no cracking, peeling... still looks great! I've never repainted fabric so unfortunately, I'm not sure. I would go about it the exact same way you did it the first time tho... and hope the fabric will take to the new color. Maybe try a test area in the back first?

[@ningphilip7778]

Hi, nice video. Just want to know how many oz paint are required for each below ? ( terracotta paint / chocolate paint / brown glaze / brown wax)

[@hengamehkhajepour]

Thanks for sharing your great project, I have one question, I only wanna paint the dining chair seating part, what's the best paint option? chalk or Acrylic or Fabric dye?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

It really depends on the material and the look you're after but I would opt for the chalk paint or fabric dye. I didn't have any luck with latex or acrylics.

[@cindysteinebach9814]

So pretty! How does a painted chair feel once dry?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

It feels kind of like a faux leather would. Its' not as soft as the cotton upholstery fabric when touching it with your hands, but when you're sitting on it, you wouldn't know the difference.

[@thebellanextdoor]

Thank you for the dip brush in water then paint.

[@wanntabebetter]

Is it possible to paint on fabric that has a little nap. I have a rocking chair that has pads and they need help.

[@jendubay3782]

Do other kinda of paint work for this? If so, what else could we use? Acrylic?

[@rosecardona1248]

Came across ur video thank you, i do have a question for you, how well has the chair held up????

[@SalvagedInspirations]

It's held up very well. I have it in my bedroom and it gets daily use. :)

[@kzhemh]

How many days should you wait before sitting on the chair? What happens to the paint if you spill liquid on the chair or sweat while sitting on it? Thanks!

[@markmooney5662]

Fantastic....looking to try this out ....I'm assuming any chalk paint will do as I'm not sure if I can get Dixie Bell here in the UK.........loved this tutorial.....sub'd and now going to binge watch your videos . Thank you and God bless. Gilly wife of Mark in Norfolk UK

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Yes, any chalk type paint will work Gilly! 🤗

[@cruizcindy]

Hi! I love this! How has it held up since the video?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Perfectly. It’s still my reading chair in my bedroom 😊

[@jackierespass9774]

How long do you have to leave the chair before you can sit on it?

[@GettingCraftyDIY]

what two colors of paint did you use on the 2016 chair? Is it General Finishes Milk Paint? I don't find a GF chalk paint.

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Hi Nadyne! I have the full supply list here salvagedinspirations.com/painting-fabric-with-chalk-style-paints/

[@amyadolph7746]

How does this feel to the skin? Is the fabric died or is it a layer of paint with wax I would be sitting on? This project looks soo cool to try.

[@SalvagedInspirations]

It feels softer than it looks. I would compare it to the feel of faux leather... breathable faux leather.

[@alexisbaker1285]

On the wax, do you have to let the piece dry all of the way before applying? Also, does the wax need to dry all of the way before sanding?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Yes, the paint and fabric should be dry before applying the wax. After you apply the wax you can sand right away or wait until the next day. Totally up to you. I sanded mine right after I applied it. :)

[@tinaknutsen]

Hi Denise; I’m in the middle of painting a cotton fabric that looks similar to yours…except a white background with blue pinstripes and tiny red hearts. I had seen other videos of spraying fabric and watering down the paint. I have let each layer dry- a total of 4 coats of DB paint and it felt crusty, so I lightly sanded w/ fine sanding pad. It took the paint back and looked like a first coat. Discouraging. I am going to try one more time with your method. Any other tips are appreciated. I previously did a leather chair with no problems in the same color scheme. P.S. I’ve been pondering on how most furniture is scotch guarded to repel and protect from stains and water. I noticed when I started my project…as I misted the fabric, the water beaded up and it dawned on me…. Something for you and your followers to consider; which also made me think that once I noticed the water beads I should have lightly sanded under the cushion and then proceeded to see if the paint took. I look at it like scuff sanding a piece of wood furniture. Thanks for sharing and I will comment back on how round # 5 goes!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

I'd love to hear how it turns out for you. And ya, maybe there is some sort of scotch guard or repellant that is stopping the paint from being absorbed... maybe that's why it feels crusty. ?? I hope it all works out for you! Good luck! 🙂

[@tinaknutsen]

Update; definitely light sanding over the fabric helps remove the scotch guard; but you also have to sand between coats to get rid of the crusty feeling …I wouldn’t do on fabric again as to much paint (4-5 layers) and work. It’s been a few months and I didn’t seal the loveseat. It has held up fine with daily and consistent use of 4 dogs, kids, adults.

[@SalvagedInspirations]

@@tinaknutsen Thanks so much for this update Tina. That does sound like a lot of layers of paint but I'm so glad it's holding up in your busy home!!!

[@Annie261.]

If you custom mix paint make sure you mix enough for the whole project. If you run out it would be hard to match the custom mix.

[@jsaenz9194]

I am so happy to have found your video! How many oz total did you use to paint the chair? I have 4 oz of chocolate and 4 oz of terracotta and I’m worried I don’t have enough to finish if I get started!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

I don't actually remember the exact amount of paint but if it's a larger wing chair (like mine) I would double that to be on the safe side. It's always better to have a little leftover paint than to run out mid-project.

[@jsaenz9194]

@@SalvagedInspirations thank you!!!

[@mistyblue1962]

Help ! My first coat has dried and I rubbed it to check. When I did I got the blue on my hands ?

[@groovehog1]

I think that’s why she seals it with the wax 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@nhlsuperstar1987]

Do you absalutly have to do this with Dixie paint, cause i don't have that kind of paint where i live

[@SalvagedInspirations]

No. Any type of ChalkPaint will work.

[@hotvirgirl]

what wax did you use on the chair that you painted a few years back?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

I believe it was Annie Sloans clear wax.

[@Moon_hopper]

Does it have to be mineral paint?

[@dianebeland3290]

The chair was cute before but it came out great.

[@dianebeland3290]

Other videos I watched they added fabric softener.

[@jolettagorden3348]

Does it matter what type of paint

[@cateppy840]

Can you paint leather? I have a dark green couch set and going to light grays and white and hate to buy a new set.

[@marykelley1691]

I think you have to get a leather kit. They run about $60 and up, but if you watch some videos you can see how they work. Good luck!

[@blorac9869]

Don't do it, it hardens.

[@anamikag4208]

Can I use leather paint on fabric chair? Mine was reczin chair, it peel off every where . I ordered leather paint for it.. Fabric was underneath of reczin....just want to know if it's ok if I use leather paint.

[@SalvagedInspirations]

I'm not sure Anamika... :( I've never used leather paint in any of my projects.

[@anamikag4208]

@@SalvagedInspirations Thank you for your reply :)

[@SalvagedInspirations]

@@anamikag4208 My pleasure. I wish I could be more help. (If anyone reading this comment has tried leather paint, feel free to chime in because now I'm curious. :)

[@anamikag4208]

@@SalvagedInspirations that's so sweet of you.

[@alexmwinyi3107]

What about the cost you use for paint.?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

If depends on what brand you use/buy Alex. I used Dixie Belles Chalk Mineral Paint. Two 32oz containers of each color ($29) and I have leftover for another project.

[@squeakymcmurdo]

Does it just wipe off like leather?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Yes, once waxed and cured it wipes down nicely

[@PinkyLadybird]

Does she mention anywhere what kind of paint she uses??

[@SalvagedInspirations]

It's Terracotta and Chocolate from Dixie Belle. All the supplies are listed here salvagedinspirations.com/how-to-make-fabric-look-like-leather/

[@mildredobrien517]

Is it all chalk paint?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

yes it is.

[@mildredobrien517]

@@SalvagedInspirations thanks I'm on it!...great idea well done!

[@SalvagedInspirations]

@@mildredobrien517 Thanks Mildred and have fun!

[@robertawills7219]

Not sure why people are using chalk paint. Can’t see why a hard paint would be better. Did you try the recipe with latex paint and fabric softener?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

Hi Roberta! I have but unfortunately, it didn't turn out that great for me. salvagedinspirations.com/painting-velvet-w-fabric-medium-failed/

[@christinekirkley3492]

How to paint fabric using paint and fabric softener

[@tmlovesJesus]

I painted a chair and waxed it and it looks great, but it hasn't held up the same. The seat has cracks and the original color is peaking through. Any suggestions if I can fix it? Repaint it?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

hmmm I had the same problem when I painted a velvet chair. I think the fabric makes a difference. I'm not sure how you could fix it. Maybe sand and repaint??

[@wandapriest1850]

Will the paint wear off onto your clothing... and what about waxes with pigment?

[@SalvagedInspirations]

No. So long as you wait until the paint and wax has cured, nothing comes off on clothes. :)

[@sharonsteele618]

Looks like leather.

[@martinezlopez4699]

If the 6-YEAR comparison is honest and FAITHFUL, that would give the Video a substance, and it would be a nice idea. …;-)) Hope it is NOT … just so more "LIKE" are generated?

[@tyranalevett3486]

Umm…did I miss something? The chair at the end isn’t the same one you started with???

[@kimblebreazell556]

Her voice is so irritating 😮