Funky Reupholstery

Not everyone is willing to take a risk when it comes to decor. What you put in your home is inevitably an extension of your personality. Maybe you're a fan of clean lines and subdued tones. Or maybe you need your home to reflect your vibrant personality. But how do you incorporate these bold aesthetics without creating a space that's garish and off-putting (and on budget)? Now, we know what you're probably thinking: 'Reupholstery can be just as expensive as buying new furniture!' It can be--but not if you do it yourself. If you're willing to devote the energy to refreshing an old piece of furniture, do-it-yourself reupholstery can be a fun and rewarding process. We'll show you a few projects that caught our eye and give you some tips for creating the perfect funky space.

Be Bold

Take traditional or outdated upholstery by choosing fabrics that are eye-catching. Experiment with colours and don't be afraid of them clashing--if you approach the design of your space with a predetermined intent, it will show.

reupba3 — A home office is the perfect setting for this striking chair. Use it as a focal point or combine it with some quirky artwork to bring a sense of vibrancy to the space.

reupba5 — This transformation shows a very modern interpretation of the chair's old upholstery.

Embrace Contrast

Use contrast as a way to enliven a space and add personality. Experiment with contrasting colours and styles or take inspiration from different design aesthetics. Pair a reupholstered French provincial loveseat with a sleek acrylic side table. By incorporating contrast, you create individuality and give your space a 'curated' feel.

reupba11 — Colours and patterns add wild contrast.

reupba9 — Experiment by contrasting traditional, old-word aesthetics with modern lines. This reupholstered and repainted armchair's intricate detailing blends well with the knobby textures of the table lamp.

Combine Textures

When reupholstering a chair or loveseat, the feel of a fabric is just as important as its colour and design. Consider textured fabrics as a way of adding visual interest. For example, a chair reupholstered in black leather works well with a furry, chunky throw.

reupba7 — This chair's backing creates visual interest and compliments the interior upholstery.

An even cheaper alternative to reupholstering your piece is to swaddle it in a furry or textured cover. This has the dual effect of creating textural interest and refreshing your furniture.[/caption]As with all refurbishments, make sure that the thing you're refurbishing is still in useable condition. Dents and scratches in a chair frame aren't a big deal--those can be fixed--but be wary of structural damage that can compromise the integrity of a piece. Reupholstering an old piece is an investment, and generally, the golden rule is that older furniture is better. You can be sure that chairs and couches that were crafted 40 or 50 years are solid wood--some may even be handcrafted. These pieces have stood the test of time, so if they haven't thrown in the towel yet, it's safe to assume they'll last you for more years to come.

For more reupholstery inspiration and links to tutorials, check out our Pinterest board! Follow Novell Design Build's board Reupholstery on Pinterest. Also, for fans of funky furniture and decor, read up on this home that combines old-world feel with modern aesthetics.