We’ve had our small IKEA wooden folding table and two chairs for years now. We originally bought them when we lived in Tokyo and they’ve travelled back with us to New Zealand, proving their sturdiness and quality along the way. But while they were practical and well-made, they were also a rather uninspiring brown. Functional? Yes. Exciting? Not so much.
So, it was time for a refresh! Given their compact size, they made the perfect candidates for an easy DIY update.
Sanding: A Labour of Love (and Maybe a Lesson Learned)
Before painting, I cleaned all three pieces properly and gave them a light sanding to remove any rough patches and help the new finish adhere properly. And I did it all by hand! Let’s just say that while it was satisfying, I might finally invest in an electric sander to make future projects a little easier. Live and learn!
A Refresh with a Bold New Stain
I wanted something fresh and vibrant for the new look — something that would add a bit of personality to our outdoor space. After a bit of tester pot action I landed on Resene Woodsman Skywater and honestly, isn’t that just a lovely name?
The hue itself is a stunning slate blue, rich and slightly moody yet bright enough to feel uplifting. It has a hint of a stormy sky just before dusk, with a soft, almost velvety finish that enhances the natural grain of the wood rather than completely masking it. It’s the kind of colour that feels both timeless and playful—perfect for injecting a bit of life into our outdoor seating corner.
I applied two coats, letting each dry thoroughly and the transformation was immediate. The furniture went from plain and forgettable to a striking feature of our outdoor space.
The Final Result
Now, our outdoor seating area feels much more inviting. The colour brings a bit of joy to the space and I love how it contrasts against greenery and natural wood tones around it. The folding set still serves its original purpose—offering a cosy spot for morning coffee or an evening drink—but with a lot more character now.
This little DIY project was proof that even small updates can make a big difference. And next time? I think I’ll start by getting that electric sander!
Discover further Outdoor Living Ideas: click here.
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