Coastal Tranquility: Refurbishing Vintage Henry Link Bamboo Chairs for Your Lake House Paradise

Hello, design enthusiasts and coastal dreamers! Today, I’m excited to share a transformative journey of refurbishing a set of Henry Link Bamboo chairs, discovered in the corners of a second-hand store for just $30. Join me as we dive into the art of turning these classic pieces into the perfect fit for a coastal-themed lake house retreat. With the trusty combination of Kilz Adhesion Primer and Polycrylic, a splash of white paint, and a touch of ingenuity, we’ll unveil the secrets to a budget-friendly and stylish coastal revival.

The Discovery:

Nestled among the treasures of a second-hand store, a set of Henry Link Bamboo chairs caught our eye, waiting for a second chance at elegance. Priced at a mere $30, these chairs held the promise of a coastal oasis, and we were eager to bring that dream to life.

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Materials You’ll Need:

Old or Vintage Chairs: Any chairs will do; look for a sturdy frame to serve as your canvas for this coastal transformation. Embrace the timeless charm and envision the serene seaside revival.

Kilz Adhesion Primer: A versatile primer that adheres to most surfaces, providing an excellent base for your coastal color palette.

Polycrylic: This water-based protective finish is superior to polyurethane when using white or lighter-colored paint. It won’t leave a yellow tint and adds durability with a glossy sheen, echoing coastal elegance.

White Paint: A crisp white coat sets the stage for the coastal palette, providing a fresh canvas for your vision.

Ocean-Inspired Spray Paint Colors: Serene blues, calming greens, and sandy neutrals to evoke the tranquility of the coastal palette.

Spray Paint for Wheels (Silver): Elevate the look by giving the wheels a sleek silver finish.

Sealant for Wheels: A protective seal to keep the wheels looking polished and functional.

Pillow covers for Seat Backs: Create custom seat backs using pillow covers cut to fit the contours of the original seat back chair cushion.

New Cushion Slip Cover: Refresh the look with a slipcover that complements your coastal theme.

Pro Tips:

Versatile Chair Choices: Any old or vintage chairs can be transformed using this refurbishment guide. Look for a sturdy frame that suits your taste and complements your coastal theme.

Kilz Adhesion Primer Versatility: Kilz Adhesion Primer is an excellent choice for various surfaces, ensuring proper adhesion and a smooth foundation for your coastal color transformation.

Polycrylic vs. Polyurethane: When working with white or lighter-colored paint, opt for Polycrylic over polyurethane. Polyurethane can leave a yellow tint, while Polycrylic provides a clear and glossy finish, preserving the pristine coastal look.

Use a Paint Spray Gun for Crevice Coverage: To ensure thorough coverage in the many crevices of the bamboo, consider using a paint sprayer. This will help achieve an even and comprehensive application, bringing out the intricate details of the bamboo. I love this paint sprayer! I have used it from painting my kitchen cabinets to many different furniture flips. Be sure to clean the spray gun properly after every use.

Step 1: Coastal Inspiration

Channel the serene colors of the sea and skies as you plan your coastal color palette. Embrace whites, blues, and greens to capture the essence of the coastal paradise.

Step 2: Assess and Prepare

Evaluate the chairs for structural integrity. Tighten screws, address wobbling, and envision the final look.

Step 3: White Primer

Apply Kilz Adhesion Primer generously to create a solid base. The white primer serves as a blank canvas for the coastal hues to shine.

Step 4: Coastal Painting

Once the primer is dry, apply your chosen coastal colors to the bamboo. Spray paint provides an even and coastal-chic finish.

Step 5: Wheel Makeover

Spray paint the wheels silver for a touch of sophistication. Seal them for protection and longevity.

Step 6: Seat Backs Upgrade

Cut pillows to fit the shape of the seat backs, transforming them into cozy coastal accents.

Step 7: Cushion Facelift

Swap out the cushion cover with a new slipcover that complements your coastal theme, adding a touch of freshness.

The Grand Coastal Reveal:

Final Thoughts:

Place your refurbished Henry Link Bamboo chairs in the heart of your lake house haven. Witness the coastal charm enveloping your space, with the silver wheels gliding smoothly and the custom seat backs adding a personalized touch.

With a $30 investment, a touch of Kilz Adhesion Primer, Polycrylic, and a sprinkle of creativity, your vintage bamboo chairs have become a symbol of coastal tranquility. May your lake house be adorned with the serene beauty of renewed treasures.

Happy refurbishing, and may the coastal vibes echo in your newly transformed paradise! 🌊🌺🐚✨

Written by:

Teresa Perkins