Before and After - Repaint, Reupholster and Restore

I just got my January, 2013, issue of Southern Living link to magazine website and found an article that could have included ME - "Repaint, Reupholster, Restore: Three Southern Makeover Experts Show That With a Little Paint, Fabric, and Inspiration, There's No Such Thing as a Lost Cause".

I have been refurbishing well-constructed upholstered furniture since 2004 as a business and since I started buying furniture in college for myself - quite a while ago. I could write this article - I could write the book! Here are some excepts that speak to me!

What makes a piece makeover worthy? I look for classic shapes, interesting lines, and special details. Matching sets of chairs are always a good find. Don't buy anything with structural damage to the frame.  Be persistent and shop often.  Leave the upholstery to a professionals.  (emphasis added by me).  Jamie Meares, Furbish Studio, Raleigh, NC link to her website

Why restore old furniture? It gives you a home that is totally unique. I want people to enjoy and use the furniture that has been handed down for centuries. [secret is] great fabrics!  Tara Shaw, Tara Shaw Antiques, New Orleans, LA - unable to open website.

Why do you love vintage furniture? Making over old furniture adds character to a room. Look for pieces that are unique with clean lines. Mix furniture from different eras. I like to use a combination of antiques, mid-century finds, and new pieces. Cynthia Collins, Blue Print and Collins Interiors, Dallas, TX link to website

To illustrate all of these fine points, here are some of my most recent "before and after" examples of restored upholstered furniture.

So inspirational - I think I'll spend this lovely day going around to the thrift and charity shops just to check them out one more time!

This posting is linked here - Wow us Wednesday