One way to appropriately change or enhance the look of any chair with a separable cushion is to redo the upholstery of the cushion. Whether you have pets or small children, or if you just like to recycle old furniture, you'll appreciate this quick modernization technique.
Steps
Step 1. Unscrew the cushion from the bottom of the chair
Step 2. Remove the existing upholstery
This step is optional. Removing the present fabric can take time, the use of a screwdriver and pliers to remove each staple. Unless there is a bad smell or the filling has come out of the pillow, it is not recommended to remove the base fabric from the pillow. Restoring a bare pillow is more difficult and may require additional steps. If the padding or sponge has come undone, for example, it may need to be replaced.
Step 3. Measure length, width and thickness
If the seat is round or curved, measure the length and width at the largest points. Add 3 times the thickness to the length and width and you have the amount of fabric to use for a single pillow. For example, if the pillow is 25cm x 30.5cm x 5cm you will need a piece of fabric that is 40.5cm x 46cm.
Step 4. Buy the fabric
Look for an upholstery fabric that is suitable for everyday use. You can also use fabric from an old jacket, skirt, or tablecloth as long as it's tough. If you use these chairs only occasionally or you like to cover them to meet the different needs that may change over time, a lighter and more elastic fabric can make your work easier.
Step 5. Place the fabric with the inside facing up on a flat surface
Place the pillow on top, with the part you sit on touching the inside of the fabric. Line up the pillow with the fabric if necessary, especially if the fabric is striped.
Step 6. Trim the fabric so that there is enough all around to fold it at the edges
Usually, two or three times the thickness of the pillow is fine. Save any scraps for other projects (see Tips below).
Step 7. Fold a flap of fabric along the straightest edge and pin it from the center to the corners
Make sure the fabric is smooth and taut, with no creases between the applied stitches. See the Tips below for an alternative technique of tapping the fabric.
Step 8. Repeat with the opposite side of the pillow
Pull vigorously against the first row of applied stitches to make sure you've got rid of any creases or curls. Again, start in the center and move outward. When you encounter curves, fold the fabric, making sure all the folds are under the pillow and not visible from above. Secure the creases with the staple points. If you make a mistake, take them out and start over.
Step 9. Continue along the sides, still pulling firmly to make sure the fabric is snug against the pillow
Step 10. Fold the corners
- Point the corners towards the center of the pillow (along the diagonal).
- Fold one side down so that the folded edge runs along the diagonal.
- Fold the other side in the same way, so that you have a crease along the diagonal. Secure everything with the stapler.
Step 11. Trim any excess fabric
Hammer in place any points on the stapler that don't fit snugly.
Step 12. Spray the stain remover on the pillows
Place crates of milk or other support structures outdoors and spray the stain remover according to the instructions on the package. Leave to dry overnight in a protected but well-ventilated area. If you can leave the cushions on a porch or in a garage, you will defend yourself against the exhalation of the sprayed product, while also protecting your beautiful new cushions from dangerously well-fed birds.
Step 13. Place the cushion back on the chair and screw the base into place
Step 14. Finished
Advice
- Alternative approach to pin: Start with a single pin in the center of each side (doing opposite sides first) and then add two pins (moving outward) on each side, rotating each time. This could help keep the fabric taut along the edges of the chair constantly, as weak tension is more likely to become a problem if you pin one whole side at a time.
- As you pin, be careful not to block the screw holes with too much fabric and staples. You can easily cross a layer of fabric, but stitches become a problem.
- It is advisable to align the edges of the fabric to prevent it from fraying.
- An electric or compressed air stapler is the best solution for this job. A manual type will not be strong enough to pass through the wood.
- Old blankets that you no longer use can be a good cover for chair cushions.
- Buy some extra fabric so that you can make matching rugs, doilies or pillows with what is left over to coordinate.
- To fix the bottom, cut a piece of calicot or slipcover the same size as the underside of the chair and make a 2.5cm hem from all sides, and pin it to the base of the chair to hide any fraying or lint. rough appearance of the wood.
