The Blue Chair Gets a Facelift

The blue chair has been in dire need of some attention lately. She was starting to look stretched, faded and worn. I didn't know what I was doing when I recovered her seat the first time and didn't do the best job possible. This time around I actually did some research and am much happier with the results.

Here she is looking sad before repairs.

It actually took me months to decide what to do about the new cover. I couldn't decide if I wanted to use the same fabric or find something different in a home decor weight. I mentioned my dilemma on Instagram and Laurie Wisbrun graciously offered to send me some from her own stash. Tufted Tweets was her first line for Robert Kaufman. I adore Laurie's designs. Her fabrics are among the few "cutesy" lines I like. Since Laurie was sending me some new chair fabric, she offered to stuff the envelope with a several more yards of her other fabrics. I made a few more fun projects from her fabric that I'll be sharing in the coming week.

In the end I decided to stick with the chairs fabric. It just wouldn't be "the blue chair" anymore without it. Thanks to Laurie, I'm set for a few more years. My chair still needs a few paint touch-ups, but she is looking much less shabby.

My corners look so much better this time. The first time around I was so afraid to pull the fabric too hard. I love how much more professional it looks this time.

Since I opted for quilting weight fabric again, I sought Instagram advice on interfacing products. I secretly hate using interfacing on anything, so I'm usually at a loss for the best product. I ended up using a layer of Pellon Shape Flex followed by a layer of fusible fleece. It really was just perfect. It has good stability, but wasn't too thick and stiff to wrap. I also replaced the foam cushion and clipped the edges to give it a better shape this time.

When we finally get some green grass growing again, I'll take some new photos for my blog cards. I just ordered a new batch to take to Sew South in two weeks!

Here is a before and after of the fabric. The fabric on the left has been on my chair for four years. I'm actually really pleased with how it held up over time considering it's just quilting cotton, and I use this chair nearly every day.

Before and after! Life is looking a little better for the blue chair!

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