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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.

Part 1
Part 1 of 4:

Preparation

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  1. 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.
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  3. This will avoid staining the ground or work surface. [2]
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Part 2
Part 2 of 4:

Designing the Stools

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  1. You can simply cover the entire stool in the same color, or you could get more creative. For example: [3]
    • 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.
Part 3
Part 3 of 4:

Painting the Stools

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  1. [4]
  2. 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. 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.
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Part 4
Part 4 of 4:

Using the Stools

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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Where I can find the glow-in-the-dark paint?
    Community Answer
    From craft stores, hardware stores and paint stores. You can probably also search for it online via paint retailers and through auction/trade sites.
  • Question
    Is there a glow in the dark paint that works only with direct sunlight, not UV lighting?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but the colors might not appear the same. You can find the paint on Amazon.
  • Question
    I bought some of the glow-in-the-dark paint and it did not work at all.
    Community Answer
    Return the paint to the retailer and explain that it failed to glow. However, before doing so, ensure that you have followed the instructions on the paint can completely.
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      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.
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      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


      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Before you create glow-in-the-dark stools, gather supplies, including paintbrushes and glow-in-the-dark paint. After you have sanded your stool, apply your glow-in-the-dark paint by following the directions on your paint. If you'd like, try using stencils to paint designs, like family member's names or butterflies, instead of painting the entire stool. After your stools have dried, shine a light on them for a few hours to ensure they will glow in the dark. For more details about converting a tree stump into a glow-in-the-dark stool, scroll down!

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