How to Convert a Chair: Creative Project Ideas

Transforming a forgotten chair into a new, functional piece for your home or garden is a deeply satisfying project. This process of upcycling breathes life back into an object that might otherwise be discarded, engaging in a sustainable practice that reduces waste. With a little creativity, anyone can turn a simple chair into a unique statement piece, rediscovering the potential within old items.

Choosing a Suitable Chair

The material of the chair is a primary consideration. Wood is the most forgiving and versatile material for beginners because it can be easily cut, sanded, and painted. Metal chairs offer durability, especially for outdoor projects, but may require more specialized tools for modification.

The chair’s structural integrity is paramount. Before committing to a piece, inspect it for wobbly legs, cracks in the frame, or significant rot. A sturdy frame is a non-negotiable starting point to ensure the final creation is safe and durable, as extensive damage may render the chair unsuitable for repurposing.

The chair’s existing design influences its potential for transformation. Chairs with arms can be adapted into benches or shelving units, while simple dining chairs offer a blank canvas for planters or pet beds. Consider your final project and choose a chair whose form lends itself to that vision. Interesting details, like carved legs or an ornate back, can add character to the finished piece.

Essential Tools and Materials

For safety, always begin with personal protective equipment. Goggles will shield your eyes from dust and debris, while sturdy gloves protect your hands during deconstruction and finishing. A dust mask is also recommended, particularly when sanding old paint, which could contain lead.

For the deconstruction phase, a basic set of tools will suffice. A hammer, a pry bar, and a set of screwdrivers are adequate for disassembling parts of the chair. For projects requiring more significant alterations, a handsaw or a jigsaw might be necessary for making precise cuts.

When it comes to assembly and finishing, a different set of supplies is needed. Wood glue and screws are fundamental for securing new components or reinforcing the structure. You will also need sandpaper for smoothing surfaces and a quality primer to ensure your paint adheres properly.

Chair Conversion Project Ideas

Chair Planter

A chair planter is a popular and visually striking conversion, particularly well-suited for old wooden chairs with a removable seat. The first step is to take out the seat, creating an open frame. If the seat is solid wood, a hole will need to be cut using a jigsaw, leaving a lip around the edge to support the planter.

Once the opening is prepared, fashion a basket from chicken wire to hold the soil. Shape the wire into a bowl and secure it to the inside of the chair’s seat frame using a staple gun. To contain the soil, line the chicken wire basket with a coco fiber or burlap liner. After filling it with potting soil, add your chosen plants, like trailing ivy, to cascade down the sides.

Entryway Shelf

An old chair can be repurposed into a unique entryway shelf, providing both storage and a conversation piece. This project works best with a sturdy chair that has a decorative back. The conversion begins by removing the front legs and the seat of the chair, leaving the back and the two back legs intact.

With the front portion removed, the remaining structure can be mounted to the wall. The chair’s back serves as the decorative element, while the seat frame provides the base. A new shelf surface can be created by cutting a piece of wood to fit the frame and securing it with screws. For added functionality, hooks can be screwed into the underside of the shelf for hanging coats or bags.

Pet Bed

A comfortable pet bed can be crafted from a low-profile chair, such as an old armchair or a sturdy dining chair with its legs shortened. The first step is to remove the legs or shorten them to a height that is easily accessible for your pet. This can be done with a handsaw, ensuring all four legs are cut to an equal length for stability.

Once the height is adjusted, focus on creating the bed itself. If using an armchair, the existing cushion may be suitable. For a wooden chair, a custom cushion will need to be made from foam cut to the size of the seat and covered with a durable, washable fabric. The back and sides of the chair can be left intact to provide a sense of security for the pet.

Prepping and Finishing Your Converted Chair

Proper preparation and finishing will elevate your project to a polished piece of furniture. The first step is to thoroughly clean the entire chair. Use a cloth with soap and water to remove any dirt or grime that has accumulated. If there is greasy residue, a specialized grease remover may be necessary.

Sanding is a required step for a smooth, professional-looking finish. For chairs with an existing layer of paint or varnish, start with a medium-grit sandpaper to remove the old finish. For raw wood or to smooth out a previously sanded surface, switch to a fine-grit sandpaper. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain and wipe the piece with a tack cloth to remove all dust.

With the surface prepped, apply a coat of primer. Primer seals the wood and helps the paint adhere better, resulting in a more durable finish. Once the primer is dry, apply your chosen paint or stain with a brush for detailed areas and a small roller for larger surfaces. Apply thin coats, allowing each to dry completely before applying the next. To protect your project, apply a topcoat of polyurethane or wax. This will seal the paint and protect the chair from wear and tear.