Well, it’s been long-established that I’m a total empath…even for cast-off decor, not just people. Whether it’s a broken piece of home decor (example 1 HERE) or lonely lumber (example 2 HERE), damaged clothing (example 3 HERE), or broken furniture (example 4 HERE). As you can see below, this vintage caned chair is looking might tattered. Let’s revive it, shall we?
I have had this chair hanging around for a few years. Initially, I got it as a quick-fix when I needed chairs when I was finding new ones for my dining table. Since it’s already damaged, I didn’t mind if my kids mussed it up even more. Not only does it sit well despite the damaged caning, but it has more to the story.
DEMO TIME
I’ll be honest, initially I had not idea how this rescue story would end. However, one way to remedy that is to jump in knife in hand. First, I cut off the caning using a utility knife.
Also, if you look straight above the knife at the back of the chair, you can see a split. Do you see the screws holding it all together?
Yeah, that deems this a demo job to make something new. Again, not sure where I’m heading with this, but it’s time for more demo. I break out my saw and begin cutting. Once the back is off, you can see the depth of that crack. eep!
In addition, I cut apart the chair base reserving the spreader dowels for a future purpose. Stay tuned!
WHAT NEXT?
Next, after viewing the parts, I decide a folding drying rack is what the #trashure doctor ordered. I begin my drilling holes into the leg set I save and also into the chair back piece I have left. Then, I use screws and washers to make it fold up and down. Additionally, I had keyhole hardware so it is flush-mounted to the wall.
In addition, I also have chain, eye hooks, and a safety closure to add to the vintage cane chair being upcycled.
Of course, I need to dress it up and bit and make it cohesive. Since I already have this awesome paint on hand, I use it again (like in these past posts). Isn’t it a gorgeous color?
The fact that it’s blue is a winner, but also the chalky finish makes it have that aged appeal I’m looking for. Like a loved on, lived in pair of blue jeans. And, for one last detail…you know I had to add some typography. tsk.
DRYING TIME
Finally, after the paint cures and my assembly is complete, here is my folding drying rack ready for many more years of use.
Not only is it quirky, but also functional. I don’t know about you, but I love adding a story to my home decor. In the past, I also created a similar rack on my garden shed. It folds down for obvious use for drying…herbs, towels…whatever you want. Then, it fold up safely out of the way.
As always, my hope is that you find inspiration in the projects I create. I only have two legs that I can’t use and are in my burn box. However, I still have the spindles to make use of and will share that project next. If you’d like to make this rack a part of your home story, you can find it and much more available in my online store.
SHARE
Likewise, before you head off, do take a minute to leave some comment love below. What would you have done with the broken vintage caned chair? In addition, pin and share to inspire others to see potential in the #trashure too.
As a matter of fact, be sure to sign up for my newsletter to see what becomes of this handmade trunk below. eep! HEAD HERE. Until next time!
Also, more chair rescues like this vintage caned chair upcycled:
Oooooo this is quirky, and fabulous! I like things that tell a story. This reminds me of olden days when people were resourceful-used what they had, and made things. Don’t get me wrong, I do enjoy a good jaunt through Hobby Lobby; but I would take handmade farmhouse style over Made in China any day. You are one in a million Larissa. Having the ability to sew and repurpose and use what you have on hand, gardening and fixin meals from that bounty. It seems like a simpler life but I know you bust hump to do it. I appreciate you!!
You so get why I do what I do, AND how I do it. Imagine a chicken with it’s head cut off creating, cooking, homeschooling, remodeling, woodworking and crocheting. haha. I love it though as it fuels my tank. Thanks so much for the smile, Niki. 😀
You are so clever! That really made an interesting and useful item – and it looks great!
I’m so glad you think so, Michele. It is definitely quirky, but also functionally fun. Thanks!
I absolutely love your visions! My personal self was thinking just dismantle it and save all the pieces for future projects. I never thought of something like this! Another great save!! ♥
That was my thinking, at least, too. I had fun with it. Thanks so much, Barb.
That is SO. DARN. CUTE, Larissa. You have a very inventive mind! Now I want to try that–have to look for a sad-sack chair.
You’re so fun, Amy! You can use regular dowel from the local hardware store too. This just makes it one step more cool…hee hee.