Rocking Chair Reupholstery Part I

Do you remember the rocking chair I posted about awhile ago? It was my mom's that I found in the attic. Well, I finally got around to reupholustring it! It was my first true reupholustery project. Here's how I went about it:

First, I stripped the chair of the fabric and padding. I carefully saved the fabric and labeled it in order. Mine only had three pieces, which made it a simple first project.

Then I ironed the original fabric flat so I could trace it onto the new fabric.

Here's the chair:

I had removed the burlap from the back, so I added a new piece. I think it keeps the foam in place and from sliding out between the rungs on the chair's ladder back.

I cut foam to fit the back of the chair. I used an electric knife straight out of the kitchen!

Then I just went for it! I started stapling (using a manual staple gun; I've read it is better to use a hydraulic gun but I do not have one.) I started at the bottom of the fabric. I also read it is important to keep the fabric pulled very tight while stapling.

I needed more hands, so I had to get my hubby to help me hold the fabric taught. I was excited at how the back turned out!

I did have to hammer some of the staples flat b/c they didn't quite make it into the old wood. My dad says wood dries and hardens with age.

Here's what the back looks like so far. Don't worry; I'm going to cover it up soon!

We did the seat's bottom next. Here's how it turned out!

All that is left now is the bottom and back of the chair. Stay tuned for Part II of this post to see how it turns out!