Fix Picks in a Fabric Chair With Paint and a Scraper

Painted Fabric Chair Makeover: From Cat Scratches to Chic Statement

Some pieces come into the shop with a story—and this vintage chair had clearly survived a few chapters. The wooden frame was lovely, but the fabric had been used as a scratching post by a very enthusiastic cat. Despite the picks and pulls, I saw potential and decided to try something a little different: painting the fabric.

Painting Fabric: Tips & Tricks

Painting fabric might sound intimidating, but it’s a fantastic way to refresh upholstery without reupholstering. Here’s how I tackled it:

• First, I lightly misted the fabric with water to help the paint absorb evenly.

• I mixed Fusion Mineral Paint in Renfrew Blue with water at a 1:1 ratio for the first coat. This thinned mixture soaked into the fabric beautifully.

• For the second coat, I used full-strength paint to build up coverage.

• Once dry, I lightly scuffed the surface with sandpaper and applied a layer of clear furniture wax. After buffing, the fabric felt softer and more flexible—perfect for a functional piece.

A Surprising Discovery

Here’s the part I didn’t expect: after the paint dried and the fabric hardened, I was able to use a razor scraper to gently remove the picks left by the cat. They came off cleanly, leaving no visible marks. It was a game-changer for salvaging damaged fabric!

Adding Artistic Flair

To give the chair a unique touch, I added a Water Lily  Flowers stencil using metallic paste to the painted fabric. It brought a soft, artistic vibe to the fabric and made the piece feel truly one-of-a-kind.

Then I turned my attention to the frame. I painted the wood in Fusion Mineral Paint Coal Black, which gave the chair a bold, elegant contrast and tied everything together beautifully.

The Reveal

From scratched-up upholstery to a chic, stenciled showpiece, this chair now feels fresh, modern, and full of personality. It’s a perfect example of how a little creativity (and a few unexpected tricks) can breathe new life into a tired piece.

💬 Final Thoughts

If you’ve got a chair with worn fabric or pet damage, don’t count it out. Painted upholstery is a fun, budget-friendly way to revive furniture—and with the right products and techniques, it can look and feel amazing.

You’ll find everything I used—from Fusion Mineral Paint to furniture wax and stencils—available in-store and online. And if you’re curious about trying this technique yourself, I’m always happy to share tips or help you get started.