13.2.14

The Chair that Started it All

Guys. These chairs. I spotted them at Value Village months ago. They were priced at $24 each and I knew it was a bargain. Mr. Dixon was with me and he could not get over how hideous they were (can you even blame him?). I had to promise him for a straight 5 minutes, that yes, I would reupholster them.  He even went on to tell me that I wasn't "allowed" to start any more projects until these beasts were covered.




Yes. Completely heinous. But the potential was infinite.


Structurally, these chairs are impeccable! Quality furniture is definitely harder to find these days, so when I find something I can spruce up, I want to jump on the opportunity.

Did I mention when when we purchased the chairs there was a mishap with the "military discount button" and she charged us $20 for BOTH. When I questioned her she just didn't even care. Um, ok... thanks? Score!

But look at what they look like after! And by "they" I really mean one, because I still have to do the other one...


I immediately knew I wanted them to be a cream color, so that they would really pop. But I was so worried they would dirty quickly. I know they still will, I'm sure, but it was worth it. 



See how fantastic (and interesting) that wood detailing is? I love it and I am in love with these chairs. And now it has clearly sparked something even bigger, now that I've lugged an entire sofa home to reupholster.

9.2.14

Before

I am addicted to scouring Craigslist everyday. You never know what you're going to find. And on Saturday I found the most amazing project... for free. It's a vintage sofa with the perfect frame. Everything I have been looking for. With some love, of course.


It definitely needs some serious attention, but I can't wait! We're in need of another sofa, but with life as it is, it's something I don't feel comfortable adding to our budget for right now. Especially since the one I have my eye on is $3,000. But when I saw this I knew it was something I couldn't wait to tackle.



I can't wait to get this project started (among my growing list of activities). But for now my mission is finding the perfect fabric. I'm pretty positive my heart is set on a charcoal colored velvet.




This is my inspiration. I love the tufting (I won't commit to that many, though! Goodness!) But won't know if I can do that until I start the deconstruction process. The top sofa is from West Elm, but if you know the source of the second image, I'd love to know. I cannot find it.

Do any of you know a great place to order upholstery fabric from online? Maybe one that doesn't cost an arm & leg? Our local fabric store has it at about $60/yard, but I can use a 50% coupon, but I need a lot of yardage. If I order online, so far the shipping is $70+. I'd love to hear your ideas!


7.2.14

A Little Valentine Cheer

I miss my friend tremendously. When we both lived in the same city only 10 minutes from each other. We always had a photoshoot up our sleeves or craft projects or giving each other Patawon braids... I hate living so far away from each other. So this year, I decided to send her some Valentine Cheer in a box.


I started with a small box. I receive a Birchbox every month and I hoard those boxes like they're going out of style! They are the perfect size for sending a little something to someone afar. I painted over the logo as a cute writing space for addressing the box. 



I added fun little things. This gift isn't about the cost, or something particularly magnificent. It's about the excitement and theme.




I added fun cupcake liners, festive straws, wooden utensils tied with fun ribbon, some chapsticks, sprinkles, heart-shaped balloons.... anything I felt would be happy to open and feel festive.


Crepe streamers? I think yes! Did I mention this is also party in a box?


Little notepads and trinkets from the $1 section at Michael's and Target are great additives, too!


Heart shaped confetti is a must! 




And there you have it! A perfect gift idea for your long distant Valentine. A gift that can be done quickly, or with much thought- either way it is such a fun gift for you and the recipient.