How To DIY Old Chairs With Paint & Upholstery?

Love how these thrifted chairs became the boldest part of the room! This Frida-inspired dining set proves that color, character, and creativity are all you really need.

Ever looked at an old chair and thought, “This could be fabulous”?

That’s exactly what Wendy from Texas, USA did—and wow, did she deliver.

This Frida Kahlo-inspired dining set feels like walking into a story. Bold, joyful, and totally one-of-a-kind, it’s proof that old furniture + imagination = magic.

And the best part? You can recreate this look in your own way—with a few clever tricks and a little courage with color.

Hero Hack – The DIY Statement Chair Blueprint

1. Start with a Chair with Personality
Thrift stores and flea markets are full of hidden gems. Look for good bones—curvy legs, carved backs, or interesting silhouettes—even if the fabric is dated.

2. Pick a Statement Fabric
Choose something bold: floral, geometric, or painterly. Wendy used bright florals that pop against the red. Don’t be afraid to clash—sometimes, chaos creates charm.

3. Paint It Bold
A vivid red frame made this set unforgettable. Try cobalt, emerald, or mustard—whatever makes your heart sing. Use chalk paint or Dixie Belle for rich, velvety coverage.

4. Add a Whimsical Touch
Wendy hand-painted Frida portraits inspired by her daughter’s artwork. You could use stencils, trim, contrasting piping, or even your own art to personalize your chair.

I shared this hack in one of my newsletter editions of Daily Decor Hacks. This is one of the hacks I sent out in my daily newsletter daily decor hacks. Continue reading to learn the hack and subscribe below to get such hacks and their video tutorial in your mailbox!

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