Steps to a Furniture Face Lift
A spring makeover for furniture is simpler than you think
By Susan Anspach
Jan. 13, 2010
Fresh coats of paint aren’t the way to scratch that home design makeover itch. Newly upholstered furniture can perk up a home’s look for spring—and DIY opportunities abound, even if you’re starting from scratch.
A fan chair available for sale through online classifieds (Craigslist)
If you don’t have a piece to start with, there’s no shortage of Craigslist options when your only aesthetic consideration is shape. Basics such as this glider rocker and ottoman (dig the seat depth, not the denim), fan chair (thumbs down on anything Pepto-hued, but way, way up on the piece’s structure) and living room set (when did zebra print last do anyone any favors?) can be had for cheap on the online classifieds site.
Locally owned home decor boutiques with fresh selections of fabric include Reston’s Urban Retreat (11409 Sunset Hills Road, Reston; 703-689-3404), a warehouse-style shop bursting with bright-toned swatches and the McLean-based Curran Designer Fabrics (6825 Redmond Drive, McLean; 703-556-9292), specializing in natural fibers and couture fabrics pulled from and inspired by designer workrooms.
Tips for tackling a furniture makeover at home can be found here, but if you’re scared of botching the job, professional upholsterers will still provide significant savings over buying new. Local options include Loudoun Upholstery (571-214-8931), Morelli Couture (703-352-5888) in Fairfax and Nelson Upholstery (703-590-7271), with offices throughout the region.