I found myself shopping online for new breakfast bar stools when I had some old stools that needed a new life! I couldn’t face seeing these go to the dump when they were perfectly sound. So I got out the sewing machine and got creative with some spare fabric!
The bar stools
I’ve had these stools for about 10 years, and they have even survived a house fire. The pleather/ vinyl tops were well worn and needed replacing. The wood is still good, the joins just needed a tighten up with an Allen key and a screwdriver.
Sewing
Repairing things with my sewing machine makes me feel very self-sufficient! I highly recommend to invest in a good sewing machine like my Bernina. I don’t really know how to make patterns yet, so I measured the square cushion and made a mock-up with old sheet fabric (one my dog had ripped up!). When I was confident on how I would do the corners, I set about cutting the fabric.
This fabric I had found at a sewing shop and was a cheap off cut. It cost about $30 all up. I love the thick, velvety and corduroy texture and I love how it will fit in with our kitsch décor. Honestly, if I can sew these, anyone can! I fixed them onto the stool by tucking them under (between the seat and the wooden frame) and re-attaching it with screws. It’s nothing fancy, but it looks great!!
I’m very happy with how they look now, they are also easy to clean. Cleanability is a high priority in a house with small children! I can loosen the screws and pop the cover through the wash, and put it back on when it’s dry. This is also a great time to check the other fasteners and tighten them up if the stools are getting squeaky.