This is exactly the kind of project that I love. I had to do some research before tackling this one, but after reading all kinds of advice I gave it a try, and I have put together a little tutorial so you can do it to! (For a full video tutorial you can visit my profile on Instagram and see it under saved stories.) The full project took about 3 hours (as a first timer).

 

 

This rocker was a gift to my Aunt and Uncle for their wedding in 1974. How awesome is that? The finish shows a little bit of wear, but I love it and definitely wouldn’t cover up that beautiful wood with paint. It could eventually be re-stained, but that really isn’t necessary at this point.

 

 

Materials:

• Utility Knife
• Chisel
• Hammer
• Stapler
• Jute Webbing
• Upholstery Stretcher
• Burlap
• 1″ Polyfoam
• Fabric
• Nail Head Trim

 

First I needed to remove the caning. This was the hardest part of the project. I used a hammer and chisel, knife, and utility knife. The key is to remove the spline (use your knife on each side of it to separate it from the chair). Since this seat was replaced with a fabric seat it isn’t necessary to remove all material from the groove, but I got as much as I could. I worked my way around the chair with a chisel and hammer, which did the trick. If you want to recane the chair you will need to clean out this groove really well.

 

 

Once the caning has been removed it is time to make a new seat. While a wood base could be used, jute webbing will give a softer feel. Attaching the jute webbing is simple with the correct tools. Fold over the edge of the webbing and staple on the first side. Use an upholstery stretcher to pull the webbing tight to the other side and staple in place. Fold the end over and staple again.

 

 

I used 2 pieces of webbing each way, weaved together. You can use more for a larger seat if necessary, but it must be weaved together and pulled tight with a stretcher.

 

 

 

Once the webbing was been attached, I covered the seat in burlap to make a smooth seat to set the foam on. This will prevent the foam from sinking into any of the gaps in webbing.

 

 

*This is the part where I get distracted and forget to take pictures.*  Next, I attached the foam to the burlap with spray glue and covered in fabric. The fabric can be stapled around with a rough edge because it will be covered in fabric and nail head trim.

To make the fabric edging I took the same fabric and folded in thirds. Then I sewed down the middle.

 

 

I made my fabric piece about an inch wide, but it could be smaller if you prefer. I wanted to be sure to cover the rough edges. The fabric or ribbon is put directly on to the rough edge (being sure to cover any staples) and attached with the nail head trim.

 

 

I got Ryan’s help for the last part and we folded the corners to make it square. After working all the way around the chair (with the seam in the back corner), we were all finished.

 

 

Do you have a chair that needs a new seat? Maybe you will find a good project this spring when the sales start. I hope you find this tutorial helpful. Let me know what projects you have coming up, I would love to see them!