Papasan Chair Makeover

Papasan chairs are inexpensive, comfortable, timeless, and go with virtually any decor.
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Whether you’ve had one for years, were lucky enough to score at a garage sale for pennies on the dollar, or received as a hand-me-down for free, here are quick and easy steps for giving this versatile and functional piece a new look and new lease on life!

I love my papasan chairs. They're unique look, comfortable,  affordable, and fit in with almost any interior style. And their light weight allows you to move them around a room or from room to room to accommodate guest seating for game nights or watching games on tv. 

I have 3 of them. One in my bedroom, a second in a designated meditation area of my home, and a third in a sitting area in my basement. 

So allow me to share this stupid-easy papasan chair makeovers that... as with any of my home improvement DIY projects... can be completed EASILY in less than 1 hour.

4 Fun Facts About the Papasan Chair

• American World War II veterans brought them  from Asia
• Frames originally made from woods from tropical climates
• ​Adjustability allows for positioning for personalized comfort
• Minimalist style and versatility compatible with any decor

Estimated Time to Complete

Once you have the items needed… 15 minutes. For version with "optional steps" allow 45.

Level of Difficult

Very easy.

Estimated Cost

Under $30-40 to $50-90… dependent of size and whether you need to replace of your existing chair cushion. 

Items Needed for "Basic 15-minute Project"

• papasan chair frame
• papasan chair cushion (link if need to purchase). Note: Buy a cushion 50-inches in diameter if purchasing or replacing
• papasan cushion cover (links to style options below)
  • plush faux fur zippered slipcover removable and machine washable
  • quilted, soft microfiber, zippered, removable and machine washable
• old cleaning cloths - FREE from your own stash
• ​multi-purpose cleaner (also for wood) ​

Make sure you measure the diameter of your papasan cushion before ordering cover. If cushion is 6 inches thick, then order a size larger unless thickness is specified in dimensions when order. Psst... Many times it's not.

Items For Optional Steps

• spray paint (with gloss or semi-gloss finish) (2 cans)
• sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)

Instructions

• Wipe down chair frame with a clean towel and multipurpose cleaner revealing the current color and finish of the wood. 

Most people find the natural elements of the chair's frame contribute to the natural charm and beauty of a papasan chair. If you choose to paint, keep in mind that stripping paint off the rattan and wicker (holding it together)... as well as the wood... is extremely difficult if you change your mind down the road. However, with a metal frame, have fun and (spray) paint away!

OPTIONAL STEP - Paint Frame

• In preparation for painting the wood chair frame, lightly sand starting with the lower 120 grit, finishing with 220 grit
• Allow ample drying time after cleaning and removing grit and dust before painting
• ​Spray paint outside or ventilated area
• Allow ample drying time before proceeding to next step 

​Note: Drying times may vary. Great time to prep cushion with cover... and ready for next step.

• Enclose papasan cushion in cover

• Center and position cushion on chair

You can secure your cushion on the papasan chair frame with the ties on the cushion cover. Once tied, tuck under cushion for a cleaner look. Or you can just cut them off as the cushion naturally falls into place within the chair frame without them.

• Accessorize ("after" image below from basement) 

• Enjoy ("after" image below from bedroom showing versatility of furniture piece) ​

There you have it.... and in under 15 minutes! 

If you like this quick and cool furniture DIY, then check out my even easier furniture makeovers including my no-sew, removable, washable chair cushion and other easy under-an-hour easy accessory ideas.

​In the meantime, put the fun back into functional stylish living... in under an hour!

Having Trouble Getting Started

I used to feel the same way too. After all, who wants to put time into a project that may not work in their specific home? That's why I created this Quick DIY Check Prep (List) for getting you started on those projects that actually enhance your home. I use this when starting any home DIY endeavor... big or small. 

​Knowing the "whys" of your home projects not only helps you with the "hows" but keeps you focused on the DIY endeavors that will matter for you... saving you time and money.