Inside Swansea Homes April/May | Page 29

Step 3 Now that you have an even coverage, begin to sand back parts of the paint. Choose decorative areas, corners and edges. These areas will give you the best, aged ‘shabby chic’ look. You can sand back as little or as much as you like, depending on how distressed you want it to look. Step 4 Once again, use the damp cloth to remove any dust and powder from the furniture after sanding. Step 5 Crumple up the dry old rag/cloth and rub it into the wax, picking up a thin layer onto the rag. In circular motions, work it in to every surface of the piece of furniture. Continue until it is covered all over. This seals the paint, protecting the furniture and giving it a finished look. That’s the first part done. Next onto the re-upholstery – it’s easier than you think. Don’t be scared to tackle it! For the upholstery you will need: 1. Staple gun 2. Staple remover. 3. Fabric of your choice, 5. Some plain fabric for the underneath. Step 1: Remove the old staples or tacks from the fabric using the tool, being very careful! Step 2: Lay down your fabric with the seat pad on top of it. Pull the fabric over the edge and to the back. Begin to staple, working your way out from the middle and gently stretching the fabric as you go. Step 3: When you get close to the corners, stop about 3 inches before the end. Fold one side under the other and secure with a staple. Finish stapling and trim off excess fabric. Step 4: Cut your plain piece of fabric to the exact same size as the back of the seat pad. Staple it down neatly all the way around, pulling it taught as you go. Then remove the excess. Ta-da! Your old worn out furniture has been completely transformed!