Grandpa Isadore's Rocker

Great Great Grandpa Isadore's rocker, which was is the possession of great aunt Stella, has just recently been passed to my aunt Deanna, whom conveniently has a niece who re-upholsters sick furniture! ME!! Heirlooms are wonderful to work with, the memories that are brought up to tell the story of a peice of furniture make the task so much more enjoyable.  This chair in particular was in need of new batting and had some sprung springs.

As you can see above, we re-strung the springs which was a first for me...I should mention my dad was a big part of this... When I tore apart the batting I found a ton of straw-like fluff under the cotton. My mom says that it is called excelsior and it was used back in the day for padding??? Gross is what I think about all of that. Nowadays they make a rubberized hair product that is its substitute.  The wood had a worn down patina, but we all decided that a good rub and wax was the best way to go for the finish.  This chair turned out so beautiful, and the fabric choice is a lot of fun.  Deanna wanted something vibrant and warm and here it is! I was so happy when this was accomplished, it has been a wonderful project and interesting furniture piece.

We are in the process of searching for a picture of Grandpa Isadore sitting in this chair. My family swears it exists somewhere, so the hunt is on and hopefully soon it will be added to this post!

Jane's Ottoman

Howdy partner! Just thought I would throw that out there, you will see why in a second.  Jane's ottoman needed a change.  Originally, it seemed perfectly fine with super comfy red suede.  But that was it.  It's outward appearance was lacking some zing!  Jane had just the right idea to help this "beast" of an ottoman.

This is no ordinary foot stool, this is an ottoman that was destined to wear faux pony hide, and wears it so well. Studs were perfect and have that special pioneer touch which brings it all together. Not to mention they were original! Its fun and excitement all bottled up in one very large piece of furniture. I love it...It's so bold.

Susie's Rocker with Ottoman

You have seen how plaid or "tartan" has been making a comeback, well this chair's fabric never left or even realized the decade had changed. This was a rocker done in the early 90's, it was time to give it a face lift. Also, take a look at this ottoman, I have no words.

       

          

Susie decided this chair was to be in her newly designed sun-room as a comfortable yet stylish piece. So the fabric chosen is sun-safe and full of stripes. The light wood was covered with a French brown finish which in turn makes the light fabric pop. Next was the ottoman, I replaced all of the do-dads with some extra padding around it and a sleek rounded shape. It is so much more inviting than before. I have never worked with pleats, so this was a great learning experience. Special thanks to my parents who helped out with this one. You two are the best!