A shabby French cane chair after it’s makeover!
Several months ago I showed you my “project list” of furniture pieces that were needing updating.
One of the items on the list was this french cane chair.
I found it at an estate sale a couple of years ago for $32.00, and it has been sitting in the attic waiting for me to give it a makeover.
It was in wonderful condition everywhere except in the seat, where the caning was completely broken through.
Not wanting to tackle the tedious job of re-caning the chair, I looked for a simpler fix.
Before I did anything I had to remove the old caning from the bottom, which was pretty straightforward and easy.
Now, I know some of you are going to tell me how easy it is to re-cane a chair, and it may very well be, but I didn’t have the time (nor the inclination) to learn a new skill right now, so I took another route.
Once the busted caning was removed, I made an outline of the seat, using brown craft paper.
Using this as a pattern, I cut a new bottom out of plywood.
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Then came the fun part….painting it with my favorite paint, Pure & Original Classico paint.
If you haven’t tried this paint yet, it’s a chalk based paint produced with natural pigments, and it’s like painting with silky pudding.
They have the most amazing European colors….140 to be exact.
I started with a base coat of P&O Pebble Stone, which is a really pretty gray.
Next, I painted all the raised detailed areas of the chair with a gorgeous blue, P&O Blue Stone.
After it dried, I added highlights with P&O Sea Salt.
Once the paint was dry, I added some depth by using my homemade glaze in the nooks and crannies.
After the glaze dried, it was time to wax and I was really excited to try Pure & Original’s new Italian Wax.
I have to say, I’m a little bit obsessed with it!
Even though it’s not necessary to wax the Pure & Original Classico paint (it will dry to a very matte, powdery, and velvety finish), I love the low sheen that waxing provides, so I always wax as my final step.
Most of the waxes on the market are a thick paste, and it’s sometimes difficult to get the right amount on without getting it too thick.
I was surprised when I opened the can of P&O Italian Wax and it wasn’t a paste.
I could literally pour it out of the can.
Being a little dubious that it was going to give me the finish that I was accustomed to with other waxes, I was still willing to give it a try.
Taking a soft cloth, I dipped it in the wax, and began massaging it into the wood.
The wax dried pretty quickly, and then I buffed it with a soft cloth to a gorgeous sheen.
It was so much easier to use than traditional paste waxes.
I’m in love with this Italian wax and can’t wait to try it on another project!
~~~~~~~~~
Now that the body of the chair is painted, I could tackle the new seat.
I had some foam from a previous project, and using my plywood seat as a pattern, I traced it onto the foam and then cut it out.
Using spray adhesive, I attached the foam to the plywood, then covered it with an antique grain sack.
Placing the new seat on the chair, I secured it with screws underneath.
Here is what it looks like finished.
I decided to leave the caning in the back in it’s natural stained color because I like the added warmth and texture it gives the chair.
This chair had such pretty little details and using layers of paint helped to highlight them.
I love the way it turned out, and Miss Ruby Lou thinks it’s pretty special too!
I’ve been searching for more of these pretty little french chairs that are in need of a redo, because I have another idea in mind for them.
So far I haven’t found any at a decent price, but I’m still looking!
Cheers,
Cindy
{Thank you to Pure & Original for providing the paint. My opinions are 100% my own, and I am totally in love this product!}
The chair is beautiful just like everything else you do !
I.have one of that kind a chair
Thank you for wonderful instructions, happy to have found you!,
Wow, it looks absolutely beautiful!
Do you still have this chair? Is it for sale? I have a set of those exact chairs and would love to know more
Hi Kari! Yes, I still have this chair, however it it’s not for sale.
You did a beautiful job on this chair. It gives me the courage to try doing this on a chair I inherited from my mother. Thank You!
Such amazing taste and skill you have to make a beautiful and comfortable home. I really enjoy your blog and dream of redoing my home in your style.
So, is your seat bottom cushion actually larger than the opening or did the plywood part fit all the way into opening and on the cane brackets or braces inside the opening? I am on a short timeline to turn something around quickly, chair is painted and sealed, and the cane bottom looks blah and out of place. I’d love to show you pictures! Thanks! Kaylee
Hi Kaylee! Yes, the bottom cushion is about 1″ larger all the way around than the opening. I would love to see pictures! You can send them to edithandevelyn@gmail.com!
My deepest condolences for the loss of your sister. I know a part of you will miss her daily since you were so close and best friends as well. But because of the grace of God and his son Jesus we all will get to see our past loved ones in Heaven someday. Until then we can hold on to the special memories we shared here on earth.
Your cane chair turned out beautiful. Thanks again for sharing your talents with all of us.
Thank you for your kind words, Carol!
I have followed your page for a long time, but I just read about your sister. How sad for you . Grief is lengthy visitor. My thoughts are with you.
Thank you so much, Marji. I miss her every day.
Your sister was lovely. I have lost so many loved ones to that terrible disease. I am new to your blog and find it so refreshing, keep up the wonderful makeovers. You inspire me to “get busy” on projects I have been putting off. Keep strong in the knowledge your sister is in the loving arms of God.
Patty
Thank you so much for your sweet comment, Patty! It means so much to me!
I just saw this post on French Country Fridays and soooo glad to see how you painted the chair. I have 6 lovely french dining chairs that were my sweet Aunt Jean’s who I miss dearly. I have removed the one million and 3 staples from them and just don’t know how I want to refinish them. Your chair is just what I want mine to look like! Thank you so much for reposting this! I know you miss your sister; she must have been a wonderful friend. Best of the best in 2019!
Thank you for your sweet comments Cecilia! I appreciate it so much! Happy New Year!
Hi Cindy,
I have similar chairs but they are upholstered top, bottom and even on the arms. They are a fruitwood color and I’m dying to re-do them similar to yours. My question is that when looking at your pictures they seem more blue than gray. I definitely want the blue tone to show through. Can you provide me with ordering information? Some suggested that I paint the fabric since I don’t think I could do the upholstery trim. Do you have any suggestions? BTW, my chairs were upwards of $1300. When purchased in the 90’s
Margo, I will get the exact colors and ordering info for you!
Margo, the colors I used on this chair are Pure & Original Classico paint in colors Pebble Stone, Blue Stone, and Sea Salt. Here is the link to the Pure & Original Paint website: https://www.pureoriginalusa.com/online-store/Classico-c22593197
Good morning. This is one of my favorite blog post re-runs because chairs are a weakness of mine. Along with good lamps and pictures. I probably should seek professional help. The end reminded me of something. I re-read your profile frequently because I love the stories of your mother and mother-in-law. In it you mention a brother but not a sister. Did I misread it? Also, my daughter and I will be in Springfield , MO next week and I’m wondering if you have any favorite flea markets or shops there?
Hi Claire! Yes, I have a sister. She passed away two years ago. She was nine years older than I am, so growing up, she was out of the house when I was still playing with dolls! She was already married and starting her own family when my mother was raising my brother and me still at home. I hope this clears up any confusion! While you’re in Springfield, you must visit my favorite place, The Vintage Peddler https://www.facebook.com/TheVintagePeddler/. Also, there is a very large antique mall called Relics. It takes awhile to go through because it’s so large https://www.facebook.com/relicsantiquemall/. Have fun!
You are so incredibly talented! I love the way you removed this chair! I also love the way you provide such detail and a tutorial of how you accomplished redoing the seat. Did you use a grainsack material? So sorry about your sweet dear sister. Anniversaries are especially difficult. She will be with your forever in your heart and memories. Grief sure is a process and we never know when it’s going to hit us hard. Have a wonderful weekend. My Ruby Lou is precious and the perfect model. I love that you include her on your blog.
Sandy, you are so sweet! Thank you, dear friend! Have a great weekend!
The chair makeover , I’m in awe of. You’re so very creative and talented. My deepest condolences for the loss of your sister.
Thank you, Ginger!
I see many blogs, but yours I ALWAYS read, and learn something new. This application I shall attempt on an ornate mirror which was a curbside find, thank you. I am the youngest of four sisters, and I know that one of these days………….Thoughts and prayers go out to you ,may you find comfort in many happy memories. Jacky
Thank you, Jacky! Your sweet words mean so much to me!
Thank you so much for your blog. I am traveling for work for the next few months and whenever I see your posts I am transported back to my home which is decorated in your style (I even bought your gingham bedding from Ikea for my bed!). So thank you for sharing your gifts, talents and knowledge. In regards to your sister, I am truly sorry for your loss and pray that you continue to find comfort and peace and the support you need during this time. Take care.
Thank you so much,Joël René. Your sweet words mean so much to me. {{Hugs}}
The chairs are just amazing as is everything you do. I missed about your sister, and did not know she was ill. I lost mine a year ago and the emptiness is still there. It was a long process for her, and she too was my greatest cheerleader!! Hugs and love and prayers your way as you learn to live with your new norm. It is not easy even when we know they are with the Savior and other love ones.
Thank you, Sandra. Your words are so true, even though I know she’s in a better place, it’s still so hard. I miss her so much. Some days are better than others. I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. {{Hugs}}.
Absolutely love the makeover on the chair and your directions were very detailed! Very saddened to hear about your dear sister at the end of this post. She was beautiful. Keep her close in your heart and mind. Sending you hugs and prayers in your time of grief.
Thank you so much, Sandy!
Excellent!!!
My heart knows your pain. I miss my only sibling, my Brother. I am so glad you could be by her side. I am
Saving the chair instructions, love it! You have wonderful taste and decorating skills.
Blessings
Thank you so much, Shelly!
*you’re
When I got to the end of your post and read about your sister, I found myself breaking down. You see, in March of 2014, my only sibling, my little sister, lost her two year fight with pancreatic cancer. She was 44 and left behind her husband and a sweet 8 year old daughter. I definitely remember the time your talking about – trying to figure out how we’d go on without her. Like you, I, and the rest of our family, including our parents, spent the last days and hours with her. I found myself thinking then that I was glad I never had children, because the possibility I might have to bury one would destroy me. My sincere condolences are with you and your family as you negotiate this unwanted new part of your lives.
Rebecca, it’s a horrible experience that, unfortunately, so many of us experience. Cancer is such a devastating disease for so many. I’m so sorry for the loss of your only sibling, it’s so heartbreaking. Time marches on, and the world keeps turning. Those of us left behind have to figure out a new way of living every day without those precious ones in our lives. Thank you for your sweet words. {{Hugs}}.
I love the beautiful makeover on the french chair! I too have two chairs with missing seat caning. Your detailed instructions will help me a great deal. Your home is beautiful and you inspire me to try new things.
Thank you, Nancy!
Cindy, May you sense the Lord’s presence today assuring you of His tender care and blessing you with His grace. My prayers are with you today.
Nancy, that means so much to me. Thank you.
Your chair turned out beautiful!! Better than if you’d purchased it. I see little places where you “distressed” it… do you like wet distressing or usin sand paper??
So very sorry for your loss. Your sister was a beautiful woman.. an elegant lady! I’m observing one year since my Mother left us. Every single day I want to talk to her. It’s hard, so hang in there. We always talked about the moon – so I just told her “Mom, it’s a full moon tonight” … I know you can see it too.
Take care – rely on your memories!
Aw, Mary, this brought tears to my eyes. I’m always looking up at the night sky and talking to my sweet mama…and now my sister. I’m so sorry for your loss, it’s so hard to lose our mothers. No one loves us like they do. On the distressing, I prefer wet distressing….I hate sand paper!
No, I didn’t know ur sister had passed and I’m so sorry to hear of ur loss. Hugs and prayers for you and ur family. Wishing you all peace of heart and all the best!
Thank you, Diane.
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your sister… I never was that fortunate to have a sister though I do have twin brothers of whom I am very fond….
I cannot imagine your sorrow but my thoughts and prayers are with you and keep the loving memories close to your heart…..
Thank you, Sandra. Hugs.
Cindy,
Your words about your sister touched my heart. I have a sister who is my best friend in life. We are eleven years apart in age, but have always been best friends. Today as we were talking about a project, I described what I was thinking, and she said, “I was thinking that exact thing right this moment.” I think you and your sister probably had that kind of bond. May the shared memories bring you joy in the future.
Your chair is gorgeous. At this stage in my life, I always opt for a cushion seat. 🙂
Judith
Thank you so much, Judith. My sister was nine years older, she always looked out for her baby sister. 🙂
I was all fired up about your beautiful chair, then I read further about your beautiful sister! What a fine, fine tribute to fill us in on her kind heart, and your loving heart to her. I don’t have a sister, and this tribute makes me long for one even more. You were blessed, as was she.
Thank you, Leslie Anne. Yes, I was indeed blessed to have her as my big sister……and by the way, CONGRATS on the book!! Can’t wait to see it published and read it!
~Dearest Cindy ~
My heart breaks for you,and I truly share your sadness since losing my oldest sister and best friend Feb 2016. As you know, we knew the day would come to say the “I Love you”goodbyes, but it doesn’t make it any easier. It just still seems so unreal , I think about her every day, and as you know we are so very thankful for our wonderful memories. I still pray every day for our Lord to comfort my brother inlaw, for I know his heart still breaks for her. But, I know your sister would what you to be happy and enjoy every day of living!! I pray you will find comfort in knowing our Lord is right there with you, and his plans for our life are perfect.
Hugs to you dear friend,
Love,
Paula
Ind.
p.s. the chair is beautiful !!
p.s.s my other sister and I completed my kitchen ceiling I Love it !!!
Sweet, Paula, thank you. I know you understand. It still feels like a dream that she’s not with us. Your prayers mean so much to me, they are such a comfort. I’m so glad you finished the kitchen ceiling and that you love it! Awesome! Hugs, dear friend!
Dear Cindy, thank you for sharing your wonderful talent with so many of us….Your little Ruby Lou is so precious…I too, said goodbye to someone dear to my heart, my Dad…I am forever grateful for the wonderful life he lived…I look forward to your blogs..May you have a wonderful summer….
Thank you, Patricia. I’m so sorry for your loss…..Prayers.
….Grief is love that has no where to go… Gosh, I wish I knew where I found this quote. Hopefully someone will recognize it. The point is that I hope you will find this gentle comment comforting.
Chair is wonderful!
Oh my, I love this quote. It hits the mark. Thank you, thank you.
First of all….Cindy, I have been in and out of town so much that I totally missed the passing of your dear sweet sister….I am so very sorry!!!..no matter how much we think we are prepared for the time that they pass through the gates of Heaven, it is one of the most hardest things to face in life. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in this most difficult time. …. I love the new chair that you worked your magic on and so glad that you kept the caning in its original state. And, love that amazing wooden box in the background! Good luck in your search for more chairs. Take care Cindy!
Thank you so much, Shirley!
Cindy the chair is so you,pretty and sweet. Oh that Ruby Lou,cutest thing. So sorry to hear of your sister’s death, my hearth breaks for your loss.
Thank you so much, Sue. Your sweet words mean so much to me.
I am so, so, sorry for your loss. Many prayers for you and your family in this new adjustment in your lives.
I do love your finished chair though, some day maybe I will have nerve to finish things as well as you.
Thanks for sharing!
Thank you, Maggie! You can do it, take small steps, one bite at a time! Hugs!
So pretty, Cindy! Such beautiful work. Will have to check on that paint. I’m very sorry about your dear sister. How wonderful that you were so close and such good friends. Loss is just so hard!
I am thinking of you and your family.
As always, thanks for your blog – it is the best!
Thank you, Kay, you are so sweet and your comment means so much to me!
Bless your sister and your family. I am so sorry for your loss. I have lost 2 close friends this year, both young, and it is just so hard.
As always your paint techniques are divine. Thinking of you and your family.
Thank you, Debbie! Blessings to you, dear friend.
Oh goodness, I don’t leave comments often. But my heart ached for you reading about your sister. While I love everything you do with your home, I appreciate you are a real person with real life events happening. I am so very sorry for you loss.
Aw, thank you so much, Cassandra. Your sweet words mean so much to me. Blessings!
Hi Cindy, WOW! I have to say it again…WOW! What an absolutely gorgeous transformation and very informative. I think I might even be able to pull this off. Sending you a warm hug on the loss of your sister. I have an older sister too and can’t imagine my life without her. Keep those wonderful memories of her and your Mom close to your heart. Big hugs, Pat
Thank you, Pat! Hugs to you, dear friend!
Hi sweetie, once again I want to give you my heart felt condolences.
I’m also dealing with my sister in law health issues, I’m praying for her…..hoping the treatment she is on will heal her…..
Oh my your little frenchy chair turned out simply beautiful, I will have to look up the paint you have used, do you sell it in your shop?
Your sweet girly looks so happy in your chair, I love how she poses for the camera…lol….such a little princess….
Wishing you a very beautiful rest of the week….
Smiles~
Mari
Thank you, Mari. I’m so sorry your are dealing with an illness in your family. It certainly puts things in perspective, doesn’t it? I will keep your sweet sister in law, you, and your family in my prayers while you navigate this journey. RubyLou is becoming quite a little camera ham. All I have to do is say her name, and she will cock her head to the side. She has been the light in our days! Hugs, dear friend.
so beautiful Cindy, thanks so much for sharing the process with us. I have a wonderful Bergere Chair that is needing an update, so I’m always looking at paint finishes and upholstery ideas. So sorry to hear about your sister. sending prayers for you and your family.
Thank you so much, Debra. You will love this paint, it is the best I’ve ever used, and the finishes are the closest to the European finishes that I’ve found.
I love that you put your personal spin on the chair. What a great deal for $32! The layers of paint and stain are perfection. I can’t wait to see the office and living room! <3
Thanks, Dell!
Cindy,
I was brought to tears again reading what you wrote about your sister and am so sorry for your loss. Although she’ll always be missed I send my prayers for your heart to, in time, feel a lot of healing. The chair is beautiful and just perfect in your home! I always look forward to your posts, thank you!
Thank you, Celia!
That chair went to the perfect home….because it knew it would be dressed gorgeous!! I love those chairs and have a few old ones thru out my home. Mine are in original state because I don’t have your gifted talent! I had a settee that caning looked like yours but gave it away….did not see your idea. You are amazing! RubyLou is precious. Again, sorry for your loss….but know love and hugs are from me.
Thank you, Nancy! Your love and hugs have kept us going!
So sorry for your loss, it is hard to get over this. I lost my baby sister six years ago and still think of her and miss her. The chair redo is beautiful! You do such lovely work. Congratulations on a job well done!
Thank you, Darlene. It’s hard to lose a sister, I miss mine so much. But each day it gets easier to remember the good times, and the memories of the end will hopefully fade over time. They are forever in our hearts. Hugs.
Sincere sympathies on the loss of your sister…I do know how you feel…I lost my younger brother years ago but now have wonderful memories. Hopefully, this will happen for you, too.
Lovely makeover on the chair! Like you, I wouldn’t miss the cane seat one bit, either…and I think any guest will appreciate the softer cushion!
Thank you, Marie!
My condolences to you and your family on the passing of your sister. May your heart hold dear memories to last a lifetime.
I love your chair redo and would have done exactly the same with the seat. No recaning here!
Thank you so much, Deb!
My sincere sympathy for the loss of your sister and best friend to you and your family.
Your home reflects your talents. You have been truly gifted. And Miss Ruby Lou knows how to pose that’s for sure.
Thank you, Alice! RubyLou is indeed a little camera ham!
The chair is fabulous! So love the details on the chair and the paint really brings those details to life. You gave a lovely piece a great new life!
ps. Would you post those gorgeous candle stands in every post – so that I can drool over them !
Lol, Sandra….they are some gorgeous beauties! And to think that I almost didn’t buy them!
I have a little French chair that I bought at a garage sale several years ago. I have left it in it’s original state, but you have inspired me to give it new life. Can’t wait to try the Pure and Original Paints and especially their Italian Wax. Thanks for all of the beautiful inspiration.
Thank you, Charlotte! You will love the P&O paints…..and the Italian Wax is wonderful!
You are so very talented, Cindy! I always enjoy reading your blog & seeing what you’ve been up to.
I’m so sorry to hear about your sister. Hugs!
Thank you, Amy!
So beautiful Cindy! I wish I could get lessons from you on painting furniture. You are so good at it! Have a blessed day!
Susan
Aw, thank you, Susan! Blessings to you!
Cindy,
The chair turned out absolutely gorgeous! I always look forward to your blog, your talent is nothing shy of amazing.
So sorry to hear about your sister, I hope that you can take comfort in knowing that she is in the arms of God now and at peace.
Sincerely,
Nancy J. Texas
Thank you so much for your sweet words, Nancy!
Better than the original! And I’m so sorry for the loss of your sister.
Thank you so much, Antoinette.
Beautiful makeover as you always do. Can’t wait to see the office and sending a big hug for your loss. Miss Ruby Lou is always so photogenic. I need to check out this paint if I ever paint anything again. I need to find a victim. 🙂
Thank you, Kim! You will love this paint, and the colors are fabulous! I know you’ve probably got a “victim” stashed somewhere! 🙂
My sympathies on the passing of your sister. Your post was making me feel sad and nostalgic – we had EXACTLY the same chair at my father’s desk for years – that my mother made a hot pink linen cushion for (it was the 60s!); then the lovely reveal of the refurbished chair made me wish I still had it. Don’t know what became of it.
This may be my first comment but I have been following you for years. I wish you peace.
Aw, thank you so much, Lisa!
Cindy,
The chair is fabulous! Again,you are so talented,our good Lord was very generous with you when he was passing out the decorating gene!
They were very beautiful words about your sister,I am sure she will be missed,but know she will always be with you.
Thank you, Diane!
Looks gorgeous Cindy! You cut out that seat so perfectly I think it looks better than if you would have put cane on it. I love the layered look you do.
Nancy
Thanks, Nancy!