DIY expert, author, and content creator Catherine Carton, best known for Dainty Dress Diaries, shares her step-by-step guide to painting outdoor furniture along with some clever upcycling ideas to transform your garden.
Planning and Preparation
Before picking up a paintbrush, preparation is key. Catherine advises starting with a full assessment of your garden furniture and outdoor walls to check for any damage. A thorough clean is essential and removing dirt, dust, and old paint ensures the best results.
For wooden furniture, sanding the surface creates a smooth base for paint to adhere to. Choosing a well-ventilated, shaded area to work in also makes the process easier and helps paint dry evenly.
Choosing the Right Paint
The right type of paint is crucial for a durable finish. Catherine recommends:
- Cuprinol Garden Shades – Ideal for wooden furniture and fences, offering great coverage and vibrant colour.
- Ronseal Garden Paint – A versatile option suitable for wood, brick, and terracotta.
- Hammerite Metal Paint – Designed for metal furniture and gates, providing long-lasting protection.
- Colourtrend Exterior Paint – Perfect for outdoor walls and fences, available in a wide range of colours.
- Autentico Versante Matt – A high-quality, UV-resistant paint with a built-in primer.
- Sandtex Masonry Paint – A durable option for exterior walls and brick surfaces.
Step-by-Step Painting Guide
Clean the Surface – Remove dirt, grime, and any peeling paint. For wooden furniture, use a mild detergent and allow it to dry completely.
Sand & Prime – Sanding helps paint stick better, and applying a primer ensures a smooth, even finish.
Choose the Right Tools – For intricate furniture, use small brushes. Larger surfaces benefit from rollers or even a paint sprayer.
Apply Thin Coats – Catherine recommends multiple thin layers rather than one thick coat for a more even and long-lasting finish.
Protect & Maintain – Many modern paints are self-sealing, but some may still require a varnish so always check the product instructions. To extend the life of your painted furniture, cover it during winter or store it indoors where possible to protect it from the elements.
Top Tip: Algon is a natural moss treatment that’s highly effective yet less chemical-heavy than many alternatives. It’s perfect for tackling mossy paths or wooden furniture, especially in areas where power washing isn’t practical.
Upcycling Projects
From repurposing old tyres and teacups to transforming discarded window frames, these ideas make it simple to refresh your outdoor space using materials you already have.
1. Tyre Planters
Give worn-out tyres a second life by transforming them into colourful, rustic planters. Catherine sourced old tyres, often available for free from garages, and refreshed them with durable outdoor paint. With just a few coats and a little creativity, they become vibrant garden features, perfect for showcasing seasonal flowers like cyclamen, chrysanthemums, and winter pansies.
For added texture, Catherine used rope detailing around the rims, creating a charming handmade touch. These planters can be stacked, hung on walls, or even suspended from trees to bring vertical interest to any garden.
2. Teacup Bird Feeders
Turn mismatched or discarded teacups into charming bird feeders that attract wildlife while adding vintage charm to your garden. Using strong adhesive, Catherine secured teacups to their saucers, then hung them with twine to create a delightful feeding station. Arranged on an old wooden painted pallet, these feeders make a fun addition to any outdoor space. Simply fill the cups with birdseed and enjoy watching little visitors flock to your garden.
3. Window Frame Mirrors
Old window frames can be repurposed into decorative garden mirrors, adding depth and the illusion of space to smaller areas. Catherine found antique window frames at a salvage yard and used mirror-effect spray paint to transform the glass into reflective surfaces.
Whether mounted against a fence, integrated into a seating area, or repurposed as trellises, these upcycled mirrors create a beautiful and unique focal point while enhancing natural light in the garden.
For more inspiration and expert advice, visit Catherine’s website at www.daintydressdiaries.com
