Refresh a chair and give it a lively, playful new ‘seat.’ It’s surprisingly simple, and we’re here to show you how . . . using a pair of denim trousers!
Skills Required: Intermediate. You should know how to handle a sewing machine and use a staple gun. The process is easier than it may seem, since having sufficient fabric to cover the seat makes the project quite forgiving. Still, some familiarity with the tools I mention is useful.
I have a real weakness for pre-owned chairs, especially ones with personality and space for me to add my own (often colorful!) flair.
Last week, I discovered this lovely piece at the thrift shop for $7. Though it originally featured an outdated mauve cushion, the wicker back was impossible to resist.
To keep the cushion “green,” I picked up a pair of bright pants to create a new “seat,” so to speak. If you’re hoping to reupholster a chair, this is an excellent approach!
Refresh a Chair
Supplies
- Chair featuring a removable cushion
- Brightly colored pants
- Screwdriver
- Utility knife
- Staple gun
- Sewing machine & scissors (not pictured)
Note: this guide explains how to cover the seat, though you might also choose to paint the frame. If you intend to paint the chair frame, do so while the seat is detached.
Steps 1 & 2: Turn the chair upside down and detach the cushion, keeping the screws aside for later. With the utility knife, slice the old fabric away from the underside of the cushion.
Steps 3-5: Trim the pant legs, leaving enough material to wrap over the cushion. Slice along the inseam of each leg, discard the unnecessary front section, fold the top of the leg over, and fill the triangle underneath with leftover fabric, stitching all the edges securely.
Set the cushion on the fabric panel you created, wrap the pants around its edge, and fasten everything with staples.
Step 6: Return the cushion to the chair frame and fasten it with the screws!
Now you have a playful, distinctive, environmentally friendly piece for your home! Since you’ve learned how to reupholster a chair with denim . . . what other items will you cover with jeans?
Want more imaginative repurposing projects? Explore our recycled denim projects and upcycled clothing ideas! I’d also be delighted if you visited these additional projects: