Bistro Set Upcycle

by Sue Purdy

2 Materials

When I saw these wicker and wrought iron chairs on the side of the road, I knew they had the potential to become something really cool. I was in need of a little sitting area in my garden and figured they would be perfect to pair with an old Ikea night table I had lying around.

bistro set upcycle, outdoor furniture, painted furniture

This cute little bistro set upcycle is now one of my favourite places in the garden.

I found these two chairs on the side of the road last fall, and saw the potential instantly. I stored them in my garage all winter and couldn’t wait to get to work on them.

I started by removing the gross old wicker that had definitely seen better days. It was broken on the seat anyhow, so it was fairly easy to remove with an exacto knife.

After I cleaned up the wrought iron with some soap and water, the chairs were ready for spray paint.

For the seats, I made a template using cardboard and then traced it on to the 1/2 inch board. The seat was then cut out using a jig saw.

After the seats were cut to size, I traced the shape on to some 1/2 inch foam and cut that out using craft scissors. I then layered some batting over the foam and used a staple gun to secure the fabric in place.

After the seats were added to the chairs, I paired them with an unused night table I had lying around. To secure the seats in place, I glued a 1×3 board underneath tightly to keep the seat from wobbling around.

I’m absolutely in love with this coral and grey fabric with various ocean creatures and shells. It’s just perfect

For fun, I added this screen behind the bistro set to add some interest. I know the fabric is sideways. I didn’t have enough to finish is off right side up, but I will get around to that this coming weekend I’m sure.

Check out more pics and decor ideas on my blog :)