I chose a gray on off-white colored pattern of delicate yet intricately designed medallions. When it arrived, I was thrilled with the tones and how vivid and detailed the medallions were especially against the background. The quality is exceptional as well. Now, I am not an upholsterer. I have limited experience, having only redone chair covers and simpler projects, but cutting this piece to size the bench I was recovering has given me a touch of an itch I think I would love to scratch by delving into the magnificent world of slipcovers and such. All in time. First I need to learn to sew on the little machine I bought this past summer. For now, covering this precious antique piano bench would be a worthy goal to achieve.
What I love about benches is their versatility. Use them at desks, vanities or side tables. Place them in a foyer for a coat check area or to sit upon to remove or lace up your shoes. Add one to the end of your bed for a decorative way to slip a seat in there. I will be using this bench to add seating for hosting our holiday dinners this season. The colors were perfect for my dining room, and since my table is smaller, I need a beautiful but efficient way to add seating.
After four layers of nasty old pilly material stretching way back to the original cover, I finally revealed the cushioning. Along the way, I discovered that the first upholsterer of this piece used real upholstery tacks, not staples. And they were very imbedded in the wood. I would not be removing them. Plus I always like a reminder of yesteryear on antique items. I would, however, be using my quick and easy staple gun from 2015 to reattach the new lining and fabric cover.
One of the layers of cushioning I uncovered was at folded towel. Someone improvised a bit with what was on hand. It is these quirky things discovered while working on antique and vintage items that I truly enjoy.
Before I expose the blechy brown and saggy seat this bench was, here is the gorgeous, elegant and classy one it became with the fabric from minted. Be sure to notice how detailed and delicate the pattern from the artist is, but how it makes a sophisticated and prominent presence on the fabric.
Now the process from dull and droopy to bright and beautiful:
And here are some cruddy layers being peeled off and there is the towel cushion:
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