Homemade Suede

Have you ever wondered how suede is made? I can tell you. No, I can’t. But I can tell you how to fake suede! A suede charade, let’s say.

First, start with a homely old chair. This one comes from an era when we all thought beige, brown, and rust were a striking color combination. Personally, this is the only time I prefer those colors together, but if a desert camo colorway is your thing, you do you my friend.

If not, take your homely chair outside and paint it!

 

Yep, that’s paint, and it feels as soft as it looks. I know plenty of people have tried painting upholstery, to varying degrees of success. Some stunning, some … less so. The secret is the type of paint you use. I’ve painted a chair with latex paint, and that results in a smooth vinyl-like feel. But for a supple, suede-like finish, chalk paint is the answer.

That’s what The Shabby Bride used here, and she said “When done correctly (i.e. thin, non-saturating coats of chalk paint followed up with wax to protect), it will NOT crack, it will clean nicely with a damp cloth, and it will feel like soft leather!”

Check out all her tips and tricks in her step-by-step tutorial over at All Things Thrifty.