Wee Armchair: From Fussy to Photo-worthy

Check out this tiny accent chair!

Despite my tendinitis issues, I couldn’t resist this adorable project a photographer brought to me. The fabric was too busy for children’s photo shoots, so she asked for a subtle cream velvet instead.

Step One: Stripping Down

Time for all the old fabric and rotted foam to come off. This is why I keep my tetanus boosters up to date! (And also why I was able to work on this project — nails to remove, not the dreaded staples.)

Phew — much better. I like a blank canvas. I touched up a few dings from wear and tear over the years on the frame with stain before tackling the rest.

Step Two: The Guts

The support system was still intact, but the old straps had really punished the foam. To protect the new foam, I first added a layer of thin cotton batting as a barrier.

I also replaced the thin disintegrating foam on the back with the same cotton batting.

Then I added a layer of thick polyester batting to the seat to make the cushion fluffier.

Next, I cut high-density foam shapes to replace the old rotted foam. I also cut new armrests out of batting.

Over all of this, I added a layer of batting and stapled it into place along the edges. This creates a smooth undersurface for the fabric. (Oh happy day — my Surebonder® staple gun and I were reunited!)

Step Three: The Fabric

Once all the steps were completed to ensure I had a good working foundation, I began adding the cream velvet. I stapled it into place and snipped away the excess. We agreed to remove the tufting on the back cushion as well to simplify the look.

So far, so good! I repeated the layering process with the arms, forming a cushion with sewn-on trim. Time to add the finishing touches.

Step Four: The Trim

I created double-welt trim by wrapping the cording in velvet and sewing it into place down the center.

Then I used a professional grade glue gun to apply the trim, hiding all the staples.