Can You Spray-Paint Patio Cushions?
- Clean all the surfaces of the cushions. If they are made of a plastic material, use a damp cloth dipped in warm water with a little bit of mild soap to wipe them down. If the outsides of the cushions are a cotton fabric, consider washing them in your washing machine instead of just wiping off the surfaces. This technique will thoroughly clean the fabric and the inside components. To prevent shrinkage, lay the cushions in the sun to dry after washing instead of putting them into the dryer. It won't matter if they fade in the sunshine; you have plans to spray-paint them. The benefit of sun-drying cotton-based cushions is that the moderate heat dries liquid particles, and the fresh air aids in eliminating odors.
- Ensure that the centers of each cushion are dry before applying a layer of paint. In most cases, you cannot access the center material, so allow the cushion to dry in a room-temperature setting or outdoors for at least a day. You can check the inner dampness by squeezing areas around the cushions. If you feel dampness or see liquid coming through the outer layers, let them dry another day. If your fingers do not feel wetness but some sections are cold to the touch, that may signify water presence. Allow the cushions to sit for a while longer until each cushion has a uniform temperature.
- Wear a protective mask and eyewear prior to spraying the cushions. Complete this project in a well-ventilated room so the toxic fumes can escape. Read the spray can label to determine the appropriate distance to hold the nozzle from the cushion.
If the can says that you can spray on more than one coat, consider doing so to enhance the weathering protection. Let the cushions dry in the place where you spray-painted them so that color is not accidentally transferred to other objects.