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Applying bright paint and using patterned fabric gives old-style furniture a funky revamp.
Step 1: Prepare the Frame
Step 2: Remove the Seat
Alternate Step 2: Remove the Upholstery
Step 3: Trim the New Stuffing
Step 4: Secure the Stuffing
Step 5: Attach the Fabric
Step 6: Trim the Fabric
Step 7: Secure the Braid
Produced by Gema Beneitez
Clean the frame with a cloth and TSP detergent solution. Use 180-grit sandpaper to smooth the wood and remove flaking paint or varnish.
Apply a three-in-one primer, sealer and undercoat then two coats of gloss acrylic and leave to dry, smoothing lightly with 180-grit sandpaper between coats.
Measure the length and width of the seat; then, cut the fabric to allow an extra 1 1/4-in. all around.
Face the pattern down and position the seat upside down on the fabric. Use a staple gun to secure the midpoints of opposite sides, pulling the fabric towards the center for a smooth fit then continue stapling around the seat every 3/8-in.
Trim excess fabric with scissors and reposition the seat in the frame.
If the seat doesn't easily come out of the frame, or if removing it could damage the structure of the chair, then use this upholstery technique to return a classic piece of furniture to its former glory
Position the chair on a pair of sawhorses; then, use a utility knife to cut away the old fabric and remove the stuffing. Remove any screws then use a claw hammer or flat drive screwdriver to pry out tacks or staples.
Position the stuffing over the seat and cut it to shape, allowing about 4-in. extra all around for folding over and stapling.
Starting at the front, use a staple gun to attach the stuffing, stretching it taut to pull it smooth.
Position the fabric on the seat and secure it with large pins. Cut the fabric, adding 4-in. all around then use an upholstery hammer to tack the fabric to the seat from the center outwards, positioning the tacks 3/8-in. apart.
Add a second set of tacks between the securing tacks to hold the fabric smooth then use a sharp utility knife to trim the excess fabric.
Follow the same steps to upholster the backrest and armrests.
Beginning at the back and working in 8-in. sections, apply upholstery adhesive to braid or fabric trim; then, tap in tacks to hold it, leave to dry for 24 hours then remove the tacks. To braid the backrest, begin at the lowest, least visible point.