In the business of budget design, sourcing great and more importantly inexpensive products is imperative. I wouldn't be able to meet the needs of my clients without the help of a few fabulous entrepreneurs; one of which is Tracy of
The Painted Chair.
One evening I stumbled upon her Facebook page and absolutely fell in love with her work. Tracy simply takes old furnishings with great bones and gives them a fresh look with the addition of a coat (or a few) of paint.
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As you can see, her work is swoon
worthy. I finally had a chance to meet her in person this weekend and I thought it would be great if she could share a few tricks of the trade with you all.
So, join me in welcoming Tracy from The Painted Chair....
Dwell: How did you get started painting furniture?
Tracy of The Painted Chair (TPC): I’ve been interested in interior design for years and I always have some sort of project going. I’ve never been scared to try something new and break out a can of spray paint. Recently, a friend (who is like a dad to me) offered to let me use his shop and tools and completely support me! Who could say “No” to that? We started last spring with the idea that we’d have some fun with it and see what happend, and we've been having a ball ever since. It has grown beyond our expectations. Honestly, I thoroughly enjoy meeting people and helping them create pieces and spaces to call their own. It is such a joy to see people choose items, and colors and I try my best to make it affordable to them.
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Dwell: How do you select the items for your inventory?
Tracy of TPC: We often have requests for certain pieces, so I try
to keep my eyes open for those at good prices, so we can pass deals on. Also, pieces that are ornate with carvings look amazing when painted! Dressers and credenzas are great as buffets, as tv cabinets, as entry tables and sofa tables. The possibilities are endless! When painted an accent color, they become great statement pieces in a room. Chairs are obviously very popular. Mixing chair styles while painting them the same color and covering with coordinating fabrics gives contrast and interest to dining spaces. Mixing pops of color with neutral or natural items also makes a great statement. I'll paint almost anything. I even painted a couch once! Probably won’t do that again though.
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Dwell: Any tricks of the trade you've learned?
Tracy of TPC: How to carry heavy pieces of furniture, and the number to my chiropractor! LOL!
Using the right tools really makes a big difference! I used to just grab cans of spray paint, a brush or roller and go for it, but taking the time to properly sand, prime and paint with a sprayer provides a super smooth and durable finish.
Also, once the painting is finished, the paint needs time to cure. It may feel dry after a few hours, but it takes days for the paint to harden and cure completely. We always try to hold the furniture for a few days once completed, lessening the risk of scratching or getting damaged.
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Dwell: How can readers see your work and use your service?
Tracy of TPC: We do not have a store front, so we essentially work from “home” in Albemarle, North Carolina. We do work by appointment and are in the shop at least two or three days a week. People are welcome to come by the shop and see the pieces in person.
You can also see all our finished and unfinished furnishings on Facebook @The Painted Chair. There you can browse the albums and see what's for sale, choose pieces that have not been painted yet and customize them by having it painted the color of your choice.
Thanks Tracy! Great information. Be sure to check her out on Facebook.
Like Tracy's work? Leave a comment.
We'd love to hear from you.
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