'If you have a dog, you will most likely outlive it; to get a dog is to open yourself to profound joy and, prospectively, to equally profound sadness.' Marjorie Garber

Wednesday 14 September 2011

Brenda's Second Chair

If you read this post, then you will remember that I was given two chairs for reupholstering. They once belonged to a lady called Brenda. The first chair, a 1940s utility chair was very successful, so I decided to rejuvenate the second smaller chair too.


I'm not sure of the age of this chair but I would guess it is probably a 1950s nursing or bedroom chair. It arrived with this fab retro stretch nylon loose cover on, which I rather like actually!

But underneath the roses, its true colours were not quite so fetching...


And even though Mowgli took to the chair in its original state, I decided a funky makeover was in order. After three months of intensive beauty treatment, it looks like this:


Much prettier, I think. In fact, far too nice for downstairs where pussy Mowgli and doggy Rosie can get their paws, (and claws) on it, so it now resides in my bedroom.


Poor one-eyed Ted sits guard, (Rosie ate his other eye), in case a certain black cat thinks its a scratching post.

I'm really pleased with the result. The fabric is a wonderful wavy ribbed velvet called 'Racine' by Designers Guild, which was an absolute steal on eBay! Beautiful to work with but not so easy to photograph because of the sheen. I think the last photo shows the design well but the colour is much richer.



I am now working on a matching pair of 1980s french style armchairs. They are quite a challenge. I'll tell you all about it soon.

Thank you too for all the lovely comments on my last post. It is lovely to hear from you and comforting to know that so many of you share my thoughts about our children moving on to pastures new. 

4 comments:

  1. Nice work Sue! I didnt have much luck with velvet for upholstery, it frid terribly when I tried to tack it.
    Looks like you did a really good job with this chair. Its a good classic shape and it's nice to see old furniture restored and back in use. Do you call that chair Brenda? only I have one called Peggy LOL

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  2. Oooh the chair look amazing, I love the fabric and colour - you are indeed most clever :-)
    Like you, I was rather fond of the stretchy nylon cover !
    Happy days,
    xx

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  3. you are one of those people who can make lovely things, aren't you! It clearly runs in your family..! I love the chair and the cool colouring. Makes a huge difference. I want to go to the Sue Ryder Sale this saturday and buy something to renovate! You inspire. Love Helen, Darcy and Bingley xx

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  4. What a wonderful transformation--- Every time you look at that chair you will feel really pleased with yourself! I have loved popping into your lovely blog today.
    Kindest Regards Linda

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