Goodwill bench uncovered
Remember last week when I showed you the bench that I found at Goodwill for $4.99? It was staring at me all weekend just begging to be re-upholstered and fixed up. I haven’t even picked out the fabric yet, but I decided I should still go ahead and uncover it. After all, I needed to find out what kind of project I was in for.
Before I get to the goods, let’s talk about the future home of this bench: in front of my dressing table in our walk-in closet. Okay, it’s more like a dressing counter, but who’s getting technical? Table sounds way more sophisticated.
The bench looks like it works pretty well, right? Right. Until I sit down…
That’s when I sink down into the foam and feel like the shortest person in the world. Why didn’t I think to place the mirror closer to the table…err…counter? I don’t know, but let’s talk about my DIY shortcomings later. Thanks.
(I might have to find a way to add 6 inches of height to the seat.)
Feeling like I needed some revenge on the slightly-too-short bench, I attacked.
And it attacked back with a whole round of staples under the trim.
I thought I had made it through the worst, until I found the next layer of staples…and holes. Apparently this was the previous owner’s DIY job.
At long last I revealed what was beneath.
Clearly I have my work cut out for me. But I am feeling confident that I can turn this into something beautiful, and something that is the right height. Game on!
Do you have any suggestions for the bench? Any creative ideas for covering up all of those holes? How about making the bench taller? Do you think that I should just give up? All solutions and ideas are welcomed!
I can’t wait to see what you do. On a more important note, I LOVE YOUR HAIR!
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Erin Reply:
January 27th, 2010 at 10:50 am
Aw thanks, Ashley! (blushing)
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It looks like you could add another layer or two of foam (similar to the bottom layer that already exists) or replace the foam entirely. Maybe it’s just too old and that’s why it’s sinking more than it should. You could use wood filler in the holes and then repaint the base, or add a pretty, wide ribbon trim all along the sides to cover the holes.
It’s a cute little bench! Good lines, as they say.
I seriously never have any luck at Goodwill, so I’m glad that you did!
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Erin Reply:
January 27th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
Hi Laura,
Thanks for the great ideas! I was definitely thinking about some alternative to using wood filler on alllll of those holes. I like the idea of a ribbon trim, or even making a sleek skirt for it (somehow!). A skirt could camouflage so much!
Here’s hoping I can spread some of my Goodwill luck to you…
xo,
- e
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I am echoing Ashley sentiments. I love the hair!
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Erin Reply:
January 27th, 2010 at 8:47 pm
Thanks, Nicole!!
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I was totally gonna tell you that I loved your hair, too. I guess we should start a club!
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Erin Reply:
January 28th, 2010 at 6:58 am
Kim, you are too sweet! Actually, all of you girls are! Who knew the hair would be a hit? (It’s actually been this short for years–I just haven’t posted any recent pictures, I guess!)
xo,
- e
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