This chair has sat in my basement for about 12 years, patiently waiting for some TLC. Through several moves, it has been loaded and unloaded; through several basement 'purges' it has survived. Each time I questionned why we were holding on to it, and each time a told myself: "I am going to do something with that chair some day!"
The chair is about 65 years old, and was made by my great-grandfather. From what I can determine, it is best described as a Morris chair. Wiki describes a Morris chair as "an early type of reclining chair."
A modern version of the chair. Source: Wikipedia. |
Mine has all the design features of the Morris chair, which include "a reclining back and moderately high armrests, and a hinged back, set between two un-upholstered arms, with the reclining angle adjusted through a row of pegs, holes or notches in each arm."
Reclines by pushing the back through a series of arm notches. |
Hinged back allows it to recline |
As a child, I always found it odd that she'd have a chair like this in her kitchen. She had a small kitchen by today's standards, so functional space was at a premium. Yet, this clunky chair- which once had large home-made yellow/gold vevet(ish) seat and back cushions - was tucked in next to the fridge, at center-stage.
What I realize now is that this chair was really the heart of her kitchen. It was a comfortable perch after a home-cooked meal, and a place for guests to sit for a cup of tea. It made her kitchen a place where conversation and laughter could take place - two things she absolutely loved.
Now I can't help but think what a nice idea that was. What if we all had reclining chairs in our kitchens? Perhaps a lot more communication might happen :-).
My plan has always been to re-finish the chair, and find a nook in my kitchen for it, just like she did. So over the past few weeks, I FINALLY made it a priority.
First I had to find seat and back cushions that would fit it. I assumed that I would have to get them custom-made (expensive), but lucked into finding two cushions for under $100 that will work perfectly.
Original varnish, and wear and tear. |
First I sanded with a electric sander, and then used sand paper in hard to reach places.
But the varnish was stubborn, so I decided that it needed primer. Once the chair was cleaned up with a Swiffer duster and then soap/water, I primed it with a latex primer.
And that is where it stands right now. Primed, and awaiting some shabby chic fabulous-ness.
My next step is the REALLY fun part - picking the paint and distressing/antiquing style. I've been searching for inspiration on my favorite blogs and design sites.
I am so excited to finally get this chair out of the basement.
Later this week, I'll post the finished chair. I hope it turns out like I have always imagined!
Until next time, happy decorating.
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