Raise your hand if you put off tackling those outdoor projects because you think it will take too much time? I’ve been there! The awesome part is now you can not only update fast, but also affordably. I’m excited to share with you how I update outdoor furniture with one of my favorite tools.
It has been 4 years since we built our pergola for our patio area and also this dining set. You can see the beginning of my “when you give a lady a patio set” story HERE. (if you’ve read If You Give a Mouse a Cookie picture book, you know where I went with that. tsk)
THE BACKSTORY
At the time of the build, I didn’t wait the recommended 6 weeks for the pressure treated wood to dry out. Instead, I put on the stain about a week later. I’ll be honest that I’m surprised it still looks as good as it does, but you can definitely tell it would have been wise to wait.
Can you see how it’s faded, showing brush marks, and the stain released from all the knots? Mind you I adore time-worn things, but this isn’t the look I’m after out here. haha.
*post sponsored by HomeRight (see full disclosure)
In addition, I also want to note that here in Ohio we get highs around 100 in the summer and lows below zero in the winter. That can make for a bunch of wear too. We do, however, tarp the set over the winter, but even the flexing of temps can be brutal.
GET ‘ER DONE
Now that I’ve established this set really needs some lovin’, let’s show you how to update outdoor furniture the easy way.
First, I begin by cleaning out all the nooks and crannies of debris from our trees. I used a simple flat head screw driver and my battery-operated leaf blower to remedy the blucky mess.
Then, once that was complete, I scrubbed it all down and let it dry completely.
TIME TO BRING OUT THE TOYS
Next, it’s time to bring out my favorite HomeRight Super Finish Max Sprayer {{applause}}. Y’all know I adore this this thing for so many reasons. You can see all my past project fun HERE in these posts.
First, it’s not just for paint. Yep, you got it. It is perfect for paint, poly, AND stain. You can see how I set up and used it to stain our DIY Fire Pit (tutorial HERE) area in this video below.
Since I am looking to refresh the current stain, I am using the can of Thompson’s WaterSeal Solid Stain in Acorn Brown. It is an older can, so I need to pour it through a filter to ensure I have no chunks or debris to clog my sprayer.
Then, it’s time for me to apply my stain. I’m using my blue tip (it comes with 3 varied tip sizes for your specific job) Don’t worry that you don’t know how to use a tool such as this, all I can say is practice makes perfect. Take scrap wood or cardboard and practice controlling the flow dial, also switching the tip to vertical/horizontal positions. Even practice holding the sprayer about 12″ from the surface and use your elbow and shoulder to move, not your wrist.
Only one coat is needed and two hours cure time. So easy! I literally had my entire set coated in 15 minutes. {{happy dance}} You can’t beat that.
Cleanup takes less than 15 minutes as well and will keep your sprayer working like new for many years to come.
REVEAL TIME
The set is totally refreshed and ready to go for many more years. I feel better about it this time as the coat was much more solid and even because of the sprayer. Plus, you actually want to have your dinner on this clean surface. Know what I mean? ahem.
If you’d like to create that faux fireplace for indoor or outdoor decor, you can find the tutorial HERE in this post. Next, my pergola is going to need the same refresh. Can you believe I brushed it all by hand too? {{head smack}}
My goal is to inspire you to give your own home a refresh with an update to your outdoor decor.
Now for some DIY fun for you! HomeRight and I want to empower you to get your own outdoor furniture done quick & easy. We are giving away a Super Finish Max Sprayer to one of you.
Easy entry – just complete the widget below for as many entries as you like. Open to U.S. & Canada residents 18 years of age and older. Winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to claim their prize. Be sure to check your spam!
In addition, pin and share this super easy way to update outdoor furniture. I know many put it off as an un-fun thing to do. This makes it a blast! (literally)
Up next, this thrifted wooden caddy is going to get a fun new look. HEAD HERE TO SEE.
To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!
Also, more DIY projects like how to update outdoor furniture:
Very beautiful now, good job. Thanks for having the contest for me to win the sprayer, I need it in my life!!
Thank you. It feels so much cleaner out there now. Yay! You will love the sprayer, Mary.
As always, your work is beautiful and inspiring! I have a brand new, 250 foot fence that needs to be stained and sealed… this sprayer would be the answer to my prayers! Thank you for showing how to find the beauty in even the most forlorn items!
You totally need this sprayer! 😀 I will have a shorter fence of our to do in a bit and you can bet I’ll be pulling out this baby. tee hee. My pleasure to share.
At the moment I don’t know what I would tackle in spraying first; (do husbands count 🙂 ) but I do know that it sure would had come in handy when we built and stained our decks
hahaha! I needed a giggle, Colleen. Thank you! You can stain, paint, and poly most anything with this. Just having it on hand makes me breathe easy.
This is Beautiful. I Love it!
I could use this to spray my deck. Thanks for the chance .
You bet!
I love how your outdoor dining set renewal turned out! It’s definitely more inviting and I can just picture many happy family meals out there. I’d be thrilled to have a sprayer to tackle all the projects on my to do list.
Thanks, Linda! Eating on it now feels right…if you know what I mean. haha. I have no doubt you’ll love this sprayer like I do. 😀
I can’t wait to see you use the sprayer on your pergola. I’d probably first use it to refresh an outdoor glider. Not looking forward to tackling it by hand! Your dining set turned out great, as always.
I may not get to it this year as we have more pertinent projects that need done before winter. For sure by next year though. I don’t blame you on not enjoying handwork. Yikes! 😀
The table and benches look great. I would paint a bench and chairs that have been out in the weather. Thanks!
Thanks! I’m sure the sprayer will make it a breeze to paint.
Just had a new deck with a roof over built and it’s gonna need stain/paint, sooooo would love to make the job easier with a sprayer! Your blog post reminded me that there’s a few things around here that need an update and refresh. Thanks!
I don’t blame you a lick, Gail. The Super Finish Max sprayer sure makes it so much easier and not so daunting
I have several outdoor jobs that this sprayer would handle much better than my brush. Hope I can win this. Thanks for all your great posts and having this contest.
Your outdoor furniture looks new again! I it’s beautiful!!!
I would love e to paint my front door this summer and a paint sprayer would definitely make the job easier. Thanks for the chance to win this giveaway!
You are so fun, Ginny! Thank you for the smile and encouraging words.
Sweet! I think we all have those unsightly projects taunting us. haha. My pleasure to share.
I just started following you and your work is beautiful.
Your words just made my day, Amy. Thank you!
Just in time! I have a new-to-us patio table and chairs (it’s teak and metal and the pieces fold for off-season storage!) That needs some love. Thanks, Larissa for the tutorial inspiration!
Hello Larissa! I love how your refresh dinning set came out! I am looking forward to your pergola refresh because that is exactly what I will be helping my sister with! We hand brushed her pergola about 2 years ago and the top is all worn off! Like you the summer heat & humidity and the winter snow and low temperatures really take their toll on things outdoors here in New England!
Thanks! Sounds like what happened to us. I knew I stained mine when the wood was green, but was hurt for time. I will get to mine next summer (I think) as I have much to finish elsewise before the snow flies here. You will love the sprayer!
Yay! That sounds perfect!
We have a deck that needs a good power washing and some fresh paint or stain! I bet this would make the job go easier!! Your table and benches are so cute, I love the style and how gorgeous your patio looks!
You can believe it will. Like night and day difference. Thanks so much for the love, Abby.
Very nice!? So, wood only has to “cure” 6 weeks before finishing? Hmmm. We just added on to our decks AND added a pergola over one, and I thought we had to wait a yearish! I might still not hurt, I mean you’re right, temperature extremes are rather taxing!
I want to see a video of you spraying that pergola! Now I want to spray mine, but how do you do that?!? Wear a hazmat suit, tarp off the house, and have at it?
They say “at least”. I’ve done less and been just fine. I think it depends on how wet it is with treatment when you get it as some sit at a lumber yard curing too. Spraying the pergola will probably have to wait until next summer as we have some repair and builds to do before snow flies. I will just be putting a tarp below the spot I’m working, tape off around the headers, and wear protective glasses, respirator and a hat. There really isn’t overspray to worry about, which makes this a perfect tool.
Your outdoor table and benches look fantastic
Thank you
Thank you, Nancy. 🙂
Looks so easy! I have about 50 pressure treated poles and some fencing that all need to be painted next month. Sure could use a sprayer.
Wowzers! The Super Finish Max sprayer will be your best friend…seriously! 😀
Great work Larissa! You always have projects to inspire! ❤️?
Thank you for the kind words, Kimberly. That means much. 🙂
Oh so easy! Great job, Larissa. I have the original Finish Max and use it for so many things. Would love the updated version to try stains and sealers. I’m reluctant to use anything but water-based latex paint with the one I have. Love it so much that I don’t want to mess it up. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!
I have that one too and still use it. I have used mine for stains and poly too, just make sure to clean up with any sprayer and you’re set. My pleasure!
Love all the projects you do with your Finish Max Sprayer. I can only dream that I just might win! Then, I could do projects just like Larissa! lol
You are so fun! If only I had more time to make use of it I’d knock out all sorts of things.
Thanks so much for the giveaway! I have a ton of projects to finish (going to be selling my home), including everything from painting to staining, furniture & house trim. A sprayer would be sooooo helpful! Thanks very much for the giveaway! I love your DIY table & benches. =)
You are most welcome, Michelle. You will love the Super Finish Max. 😀
Your picnic table came out beautiful! I also really loved seeing your outside space.
I’ve always wanted a little outside room like that!
You are so fun! Thank you, Alicia.
Nice job on your table (and whole outdoor area!). I could really use the sprayer to stain our ugly fence. The neighbors are moved to tears (and not in a good way) when they drive by the fence:(
How sweet of you to say, Judy. Thank you! haha…sounds like your fence is like my shed. Needs some lovin!
Your patio set looks great!
Thank you, Robin. We just love our outdoor space.
Like all things you do, this is another awesome redo. I learn so much from you, thanks!
That is what I’m all about, Tammy. Thank you for the affirmation.
Uggh… I need to stain my whole deck!! No easy job with a paint brush!! Your table looks awesome!!!
You need say no more. I have done several decks over the years by brush…NEVER AGAIN. Sprayer only for me please! 😀
I love the clean look of the refreshed picnic set. It looks so inviting, but I didn’t realize your pergola WAS. SO. BIG! Dang girl! What were you thinking to hand brush it the first time? That must have been a daunting task! But now you are so much wiser!
I enjoy following your projects and always find inspiration. I wish we were neighbors, I love your style!
Susan
hahaha! It was a beast and my husband and I did all by ourselves never having done one before. And…it’s still standing! haha! Thank you for the love.
Your table set looks brand new!! I have two park benches on my porch that need to be refreshed & the sprayer would make quick work of it!
Ooh…it sure would. That would be awesome!
Great results on the picnic set! Your patio looks awesome but sure wouldn’t look forward to refinishing the pergola, even with the sprayer!!
Thanks! haha. Yes, my injured shoulder say…wait. Most likely get to it next year as we have much on our plate to finish before winter. Work never ends… 😀
Looks great, Larissa. Sorry if you already answered this but did you dilute the Thompson’s at all for the sprayer? Thanks.
Thank you, Kimberly. No, I didn’t thin per manufacturer directions. It went on nice and heavy and only one coat needed.
Wow! Looks brand new!!!! Love the fireplace too…really clever!
Happy dance over here! 😀 I’m so glad it came out much better this time. Thanks!
I just stained my pergola by hand last summer for the second time 🙁 I have a small picket fence that encircles my front and back yard. It is in desperate need of staining, especially after the hail storms.
Ugh! I feel you already. You will love this sprayer. I have many more projects I’ll be using mine for too. It seems homeownership means neverending projects. haha!
I think no matter what, it’s time to invest in a sprayer! I’ve lost the joy in brush painting EVERYTHING that needs paint or stain, haha! It would be so nice to spend less time with better results. I have a picnic table in desperate need of stain, among too many other projects to list! I love your pergola! That is something on my wish list for next year.
You speak my language, Michelle! haha! I am so glad I have the option and wouldn’t know what to do without mine. You will love it!
Looks really good, Larissa! And only fifteen minutes, that’s great! I would definitely spray a chest of drawers I have and have been putting off painting. Spraying it would be so much easier, and give it a smoother finish. Thanks for the chance to win!
It seriously is easy. The prep is always the longest part, but worth it too. You will get a factory-finish with this sprayer for sure.
You are so talented –I love your blogs – I need this Home Right Sprayer to help my son repaint walls in his new house
I could hug ya, Janet. Thanks!
Hi, I’ve got got multiple projects sanded and ready for paint. This sprayer would certainly help ! 🙂
Sounds good. 🙂
Bet you feel wonderful sitting on you beautiful patio! That’s what I would like to do also. If I were to win I would get to work on our deck and VERY old picnic table and benches
You sound like a kindred spirit, Michele. 😉
Your work is beautiful!
Thank you for those awesome words, Heather.
Hi Larissa! I’m from Ohio too, and I think you forgot to mention the humidity! Heat,cold,humidity…Lol! They all take their toll!
I’d absolutely LOVE to win this HomeRight sprayer to help erase some wear on my vintage aluminum chairs and table. They still have original paint: just starting to show some rust, and I’d love to give them a beautiful new paint job!
haha…yes! It had been so muggy lately. But, I’m not complaining as it means it’s summer. 😉
I do like your project! What I will tackle first are my outdoor gliders and benches with my new HomeRight Super Finish Max Paint Sprayer and Spray Shelter!
Thanks! The sprayer will be perfect for that project. Yay!
Great job! I would love to use the sprayer to refresh our deck.
I’ve done several hand-brushed jobs on decks and I can safely say…NEVER AGAIN. haha. This sprayer will help you so much!
I saw this post after spending the day restaining our kids play structure…and my hands are in so much pain….I have joint damage. We still have a deck and two rotting picnic tables to do this summer. I need this for sure!
Oh boy…I feel ya! We have a large set that I’ve brushed several times before owning the sprayer. No fun!
What a difference! You almost wouldn’t know it’s the same table and benches.
Hooray! Thank you for the affirmation, Ginny.
I love this! If I had a sprayer I would finish my pergola also!
Yay! Sounds like a winner to me. 🙂
Just love your patio, what a pretty place! You did a terrific job on the table and benches and that sprayer made it look so easy. Well done! Will have to enter the contest, that sprayer looks like a great tool. Thank You
It’s one of our favorite spots to be. Thank you, Mary. I wish I had a sprayer for everyone.
I love all your projects, I get so motivated … now I just need to try some. LOL I’d LOVE that sprayer. 🙂
I love to hear that! Yay!
I would like to paint my coffee table.
Larissa ~ your table & benches look amazing!! You said your goal was to inspire us to do our outdoor furniture as you have done ~ Consider me INSPIRED!! (but then again, you always inspire me!) Thank you for the chance at the giveaway … I have quite a few items that I could do a great makeover on!!!
tee hee! Thank you so very much for the giggle and encouragement. It’s so nice to hear from those I create this content for.
Beautiful!! If it were me, I would keep going to see it over and over just to admire and be excited all over again!
hee hee! You sound like me. This sprayer is fun!
This would work great on my outdoor benches. Thanks for the chance.
You bet! 😀
The vintage dresser.