DIY step by step on the dip-dyed bar chair
Mark the point at which you want the new paint to stop (perhaps 5 or 6 inches up the chair leg). Use a ruler for consistency, and measure each side of the leg until you have a continuous line running horizontal to the floor at the desired height.
Tape off the area below the line; use a level if you’re worried about getting things exact. (Dianne de Guzman / Los Angeles Times)
Sand the legs of the chair. This is a boring but necessary step to give the primer (and paint) something to grip. This chair had a particularly thick layer of paint over the wood, so I needed extra time getting the legs prepped. (Dianne de Guzman / Los Angeles Times)
Paint (or spray paint) a couple of layers of primer onto the wood. (Dianne de Guzman / Los Angeles Times)
Once the primer is dry, apply two or three layers of your paint color. I chose gesso paint from the craft store. Here, I loaded paint onto the area before smoothing it out with the sponge brush.
The acrylic paint dried quickly; I waited 30 minutes between layers. (Dianne de Guzman / Los Angeles Times)
A day after painting the legs, I applied a clear matte spray as a sealant to keep the paint from rubbing off. Hold the can 6 to 10 inches away, using even strokes.
Once the paint dries, remove the paint tape carefully. I like peeling it back at a 90-degree angle; I’m not sure why that works best, but it does for me. (Dianne de Guzman / Los Angeles Times)
Step back and admire your handiwork, you DIYer, you. (Dianne de Guzman / Los Angeles Times)
Do you have another suggestion on how to make this chair cute? Send in your idea to home@latimes.com. (Dianne de Guzman / Los Angeles Times)