Before & After: Reupholstering a Well-Loved Piece for a New Life
I am happy to (finally) present my completed upholstered chair project! I first mentioned this project in my January 2022 blog and had full intentions of completing this project before the end of 2022. Other commitments such as family events, class preparation/teaching, pattern development, and work for my wonderful clients took precedence; soon, it became July of 2023 when I started on it again.
By the end of 2023, after too many starts and stops, I was determined to finish! January 13, 2024 (two years after I began!) I did finish. And now, I'd like to introduce you to the chair I've named "Mother." I almost named it "Failure".
I'm going to share the process, the good, the bad, and the ugly, and how I came up with those two names...
Step 1: Design Concept
Brief recap: 22 years ago, I purchased an old chair at a tag sale and made a slipcover for it. It was a tiny little armchair, and it was perfect in my kids' play area and later in my studio. After several professional-level upholstery classes and many projects, I felt ready to take on full upholstery with this chair.
In my project update blog from March 2022, I detailed my progress and why I had to pause in order to make decisions about the style, the foundation, and the cushion insert before continuing. This blog is going to show the steps it took me to finish the chair from that point and my decision making process for the obstacles I encountered.
Before
Step 2: Fabrication in My Workroom
The first decision was to re-use the marshall unit springs inside the cushion. I made new covers for each spring, then tied them together to get them ready for padding. I learned how to tie the springs so I was able to keep them in place. Along the way, I learned that there are many types of springs for upholstered furniture!
The decision to have a channel back or a smooth, flat back was difficult! I really liked the updated look of the smooth back, but I decided on a channel back for a couple of reasons: that was the original style, and I wanted to stay true to the piece, and I knew the channel style would be more challenging (and if ever asked to do this style, I'd be ready!)
Decisions made, full steam ahead! Or so I thought...
In July of 2023, I made great progress on the seat/deck area, the arms, and the channel back. I was pulled away in another direction, and the chair was pushed to a back corner, literally, until I had time to complete it just recently.
Progress made in July
Late December, I got out my notes, supplies, materials, tools, and the chair, ready to complete the outside arms and back. I thought I was almost done until I came across a whole new set of challenges. As I was moving the chair around, I realized I wanted to add more padding to the arms, which would mean removing the inside back ugh.
More padding added to the arms.
I then carefully removed the inside back (all those staples!), set it aside, and beefed up the arms; so glad I did!
Re-attaching the inside back was very difficult, and I almost gave in and called the chair a loss after several attempts (Hence the name Failure) until a good friend and expert upholsterer came by with great advice and tips. With her help and encouragement, I was able to finish.
Left: Back side of chair stage one. Too much padding and not enough room for the back panel.
Right: Back side of the chair tidied up and ready to finish.
Step 3: Delivery and Installation
Why did I name it Mother? The process of working on this chair reminded me of my relationship with my late mother. She taught me how to sew, what to do, and what not to do, and sometimes we didn't get along. For this project I learned many new skills and techniques and learned to be patient and work mindfully with a new skill. Am I pleased with the results? Overall, yes. There are flaws, but as a personal project, I can live with them. The flaws also serve as reminders to me of lessons I've learned.
Don't rush, be patient
Anticipate a learning project to take longer than planned.
Save any leftover fabric until it is completed.
I enjoy smaller upholstery projects such as slip seats and side chairs.
The finished project in its new home. Several lumps and bumps, but very comfy!
I have always enjoyed sewing and creating, and I am very fortunate that I use can my skills not only to provide for my family but also to provide a service. As small workroom owners are retiring, I realize that I fill a need in my community.
I have met many wonderful people over the years and love seeing the impact my services have had by helping them improve their spaces and enjoy their homes. If you liked this before and after, and want more of a behind-the-scenes look, sign up for my newsletter!
Until next time,
Laura