Create Glow in the Dark Log Campfire Stools

Ready to tell some spooky campfire stories in the woods during your next camping adventure? Make the evening a little less scary by creating glow-in-the-dark log campfire stools. You don’t even need real logs to create these stools, just seating that can be transformed into chairs that glow in the night.

Steps

Preparation

  1. Shop for the supplies. A list of what you need is provided by scrolling to the end of this article, under Things You'll Need. In terms of the stool, this could be wood or plastic but check that the glow-in-the-dark paint is suitable for the surface.
    • For a bit of fun, this article sidestepped human-made stools and chose a tree stump instead. If you use a tree stump, check that it is clean, as in next step.
  2. Prepare the stools for painting. Whether you need to clean, sand or simply dust off the stool, make sure the stool is prepped and ready to receive a few coats of paint.
    • Sand down any sharp parts if using wood, or remove old screws, etc., that might be sticking out.
  3. Cover the area where you'll be painting. This will avoid staining the ground or work surface.

Designing the Stools

  1. Determine how the stools will be painted. You can simply cover the entire stool in the same color, or you could get more creative. For example:
    • Write each stool owner’s name on the underside of each seat. Or, choose a different color paint for each stool, as a way of personalization.
    • Add ladybugs, frogs, bees or other cute designs that are simple to paint.
    • Ask children to paint on their own interesting design. This can allow them to express their artistic selves freely.

Painting the Stools

  1. Add the first coat of paint according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  2. Allow for enough time to dry. Depending on where you paint the stool, (heat or humidity add on to dry time), this could take up to 24 hours. Again, read the manufacturer's suggestions before assuming it's dry.
  3. Evaluate the paint job to see if the stool is adequately covered. If necessary, add a second coat of paint. The color should really pop, so add another coat of paint if it doesn’t have a vibrant appearance from the first coat.

Using the Stools

  1. Place the stools in the room or outdoor area where they'll be useful for sitting.
  2. Leave a bright light focused on the stools for a time. If this is outdoors, use a spotlight or use lamps with extension cords (tape down any cords that cross walking areas, to avoid tripping). Then turn off the light and the stools should glow.
    • Follow the manufacturer's instructions for any deviation from this method.

Tips

  • Unfinished, unpainted wood stools can be picked up from a “naked” furniture store––both cost effective and perfect for painting.
  • Check the ability of the paints you use to adhere to the surface you're painting. In some cases, you may need to rough up the surface a little.
  • Choose seating for every member of the family. Don’t forget about the kids––seating that is “their size” is fun and makes them feel included.

Things You'll Need

  • Stools - permanent or portable (even log stumps can work)
  • Sandpaper
  • Cleaning gear (if needed, for stool)
  • Groundsheet or other floor covering
  • Glow-in-the-dark (luminous or luminescent paint) paint (in favorite colors, or even different colors for each person to be able to identify their own)
  • Paintbrushes
  • Design templates/stencils (if needed)
  • Bright light

Related Articles

  • Make a Stool from an Old Tree Trunk
  • Make an on the Spot Camping Stool

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