Apartment Therapy reader Keelin wants advice on reupholstering two 1960s slipper chairs: "Hi ATDC!
I have two identical and fabulous slipper chairs that I believe date to the 1960s. The problem is they are a sort of rusty reddish orange, wide wale corduroy fabric — let's just say that's not my style. I have to admit, the color has grown on me since I bought the chairs, but everything else in my apartment is shades of blue and gray and I'd like to reupholster in a more mellow, earthy shade. I'd love to find an inexpensive and reliable upholsterer in the DC metro area (preferably one who will pick up and deliver since I am car-less). Any one have suggestions? Thanks! Keelin"
Email questions and pics with QUESTIONS in subject line to:
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I almost think you should keep the color as an accent - but I can understand wanting to get rid of the corduroy fabric. Best advice is take your time and do lots of looking.
view ChrisGal's profile
You could try just making gray slip covers for the back cushion and bottom cushion. It would be much easier than trying to recover the whole chair.
view here2help's profile
agree with here2help. I was going to suggest using a dense linnen in a dark natural color, like a burlap. Hope this helps.
view Anusha73's profile
Two NoVA upholsterers:
both will do free estimates and pick up/drop off
I hired Nelson Distasio (703)590-7271 with good results. Jose Goncalves was highly recommended by someone "in the business."
http://www.arlingtoncountywebsite.com/josegoncalvesinteriors.htm
I'd say you are likely looking at at least $500 for labor (maybe less, maybe more--but it looks like an easy job).
I found fantastic deals on fabric at http://www.winterbeachmodern.com
which I learned about on AT--thanks AT!
view ValHalla's profile
Those chairs are not 60's - They're from the late 70's.
Since the fabric is in good condition, I'd have them cleaned and leave them as they are.
view bepsf's profile
Those chairs are a moment in time, it's a big risk to alter that and think you might actually get something better.
Love-em-or-Leave-em!
view TERI REES WANG's profile
Love them exactly as they are! Wish I could find something similar!
view mfarling's profile
Great chairs. I don't know if you like the look, but you might also consider slip-covering. We had an over sized chair and sofa slip-covered recently and just love it. It might be more cost-effective than having it reupholstered. Plus they can come to you-no need for pick-up/drop-off. It's washable and you can switch it out if your feeling the red cords. We used Jim Viera with Custom Slipcovers out of Odenton, MD, but he does work all over the metro area - (301)621-7225. I'll can send you pics of our slipcovers if you'd like to see the quality. For fabric, I'd recommend Blanks Fabrics in Columbia, MD http://www.blanksfab.com. They've been in business for 5 generations. Very knowledgeable and offer great deals. Worth the trip. Good luck.
view KarenCL's profile
Definitely slip cover these in a neutral. You will regret re-upholstering once you are out of your grey/blue phase!
view Trumystique's profile
I bought two first series Saarinen tulip chairs from Donnely in Alexandria. Great store that also does fantastic upholstery
They re-covered the tulip cushions and stayed true to the original design and fabric (we chose maharam)
Donnely is on N Fayette
Good luck
view Peter knockstead's profile