I like fixing stuff, and resurrecting lost causes. Most notably I make my line of lamps from bits and bobs and vintage pieces, and turn my attentions to furniture when it’s broken down. But one thing I have no idea how to fix is caned furniture. Which is a shame, because I really like it. But if you live in a busy household with pets and kids and the occasional film crew wreaking havoc, caned chairs can be a bit…temporary. I have a few of them in the basement waiting for attention. I really liked the chairs in the dining room, except for that foot-sized issue in the corner.
caned chair
Recaning it would probably be pricey, and I currently don’t have anyone in my rolodex that could do it. And maybe such a fragile thing was not the best idea for my household. So I took it to Das, my favorite local upholsterer, with a piece of fabric, and converted it to an upholstered dining chair.
the finished chair
I think it looks really great, and it was a nice way to save the chair. It has inspired me to pull the other 2 family antique chairs out of the basement! They will be getting the same treatment soon. While I had hesitated before to take such liberties with my grandmother Olive’s nice walnut side chair, now that I see how great this one came out, I think it would be nicer to change it and use it then leave it languishing in the basement with the busted cane.
The same movement that has irrevocably changed our attitudes about food is sweeping the world of home design. For clients interested in green and sustainable products and materials I can offer choices and ideas.
