Rustic Revival Projects rescued this weathered metal patio set with Granny B’s Polka. Paint in Mykonos blue and Armour Gloss. The old paint was patchy and peeling, but its ornate tabletop and curved chair frames still had plenty of character. Careful preparation and clever repurposing gave the set a fresh place in the garden.
If you’re planning to repaint a metal garden table or chairs, this makeover is a useful starting point. Follow the preparation, painting and sealing steps below, then use the product links to put together what you need for your own outdoor furniture project.
Metal patio furniture before restoration on the left and after painting in Mykonos blue on the right. Project and photographs by Rustic Revival Projects.
A metal garden furniture makeover in Mykonos blue
The blue finish brings the table, chairs and stool together while keeping their decorative details visible. Against the warm paving and green garden, the colour gives the old set a cheerful new look. We especially love the repurposed stool, which makes practical use of the original furniture.
Polka. Paint has a matte finish; Armour Gloss adds the final sheen and a protective clear coating. For this patio furniture makeover, the paint supplies the colour and the sealer finishes the surface for outdoor use.
Painting old metal furniture starts with a clean, sound surface. The process below follows the preparation guidance shared in our project post, with application tips from the Granny B’s product instructions.
Remove flaking paint from the patio furniture
Start by removing paint that is lifting or flaking. Our project post recommends Strip ’n Flip, a wire brush or a wire wheel for this stage. Pay attention to the patterned tabletop and chair details, where old coating can collect.
If you use Strip ’n Flip, follow its label directions and clean away the loosened coating and residue before refinishing. Work outdoors and wear appropriate protection when using stripper or lacquer thinners.
Clean the metal surface before painting
The preparation guidance for this project includes cleaning well with lacquer thinners. Remove the remaining dirt and preparation residue, then let the metal surface dry fully before applying paint. A clean surface gives the new coating a better foundation.
Apply two to three coats of Mykonos Polka Paint
Apply two to three coats of Polka. Paint in Mykonos to recreate the colour used here. Stir the paint well before you begin and work carefully around the curves and decorative openings.
Polka. Paint is water-based and has a matte, self-levelling finish that helps reduce brush marks. Our directions advise approximately 45 minutes between coats. Allow each coat to dry before adding the next, following the instructions on your tin.
Seal outdoor furniture with Armour Gloss
This makeover was sealed with Armour in the Gloss finish. Armour dries to a clear, weather-resistant coating and is suitable for outdoor furniture. The gloss finish gives the blue paint its final sheen.
Stir Armour well and apply it over the dry paint. We recommend two to three layers for surfaces that get plenty of use, such as the tabletop. Follow the product directions and allow 72 hours for the sealer to cure fully before putting the set back into service.
Shop the patio furniture makeover products
- Strip ’n Flip Paint Stripper — for removing old paint and coatings.
- Polka. Paint in Mykonos — the Greek blue used on this patio set.
- Armour Sealer — choose Gloss to match this project.
Take another look at the tired table or chairs in your garden. A thoughtful patio furniture restoration could give them a whole new season of use. Thanks to Rustic Revival Projects for this beautiful bit of inspiration!
For further application and drying guidance, read our paint and sealer product instructions.
Project and photographs: Rustic Revival Projects. View the original project post