Customized Furniture

One of my favorite things to do before bedtime is to scroll through the furniture listings on Craig's List. While there are plenty of pieces that are in "like new" condition, there are also some pieces that could be great with just a little TLC.

Becky Roberts, an East Lansing interior designer and mom from my kids' school, did just that last month, creating this lovely & updated chair.

Rebecca Roberts Design

She writes, "The wingback chair was given to me from a friend. It was her mom’s, presumably from the late 80’s or early 90’s. I liked the shape, so I decided to try my first slipcover. It took me about 3-4 hours to complete it, and I used just under 5 yards of fabric. The cushion has a zipper, and the whole cover for the chair body comes off for laundering. I am happy with the results! I am planning on making a little bolster pillow in the same fabric as the cording."

I absolutely love the fabric that Becky chose! I also love that she made a slipcover, rather than re-upholstering the chair. A slipcover makes it easy to keep the chair clean (important with kids in the house!) and can even be changed out in the future or for a different look seasonally.

Rebecca Roberts Design

Becky can be hired for sewing and interior design jobs. Check her out at https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaRobertsDesign.
 

I frequently see listings for wingback chairs on Craig's List. A classic style, the Craig's List wingback chairs can be purchased inexpensively simply because the upholstery is usually dated.
 

The pink fabric on this recent listing is probably from the 1980s, but the "bones" of the piece are still good. The legs, wings, and arms are whole and the seat is not saggy. And as a bonus the seller offered to throw in the matching pink lamp. Using paint to transform pieces is a post for another day, though...

The new book Good Bones, Great Pieces: The Seven Essential Pieces That Will Carry You Through a Lifetime, has some great tips for classic pieces to look for. Helping you to furnish--and customize--your home on a budget!