Thrift Store Bamboo Chair Makeover

Another day, another thrift store chair makeover. This bamboo chair caught my eye at the thrift store, BUT I wasn't loving the price. I took a chance and waited a week and got it for half price-- $7.50. I loved the shape of the chair, the curved back and rounded arms.

The blonde color of the bamboo wasn't the look I wanted so I upcycled it or changed it to suit my style.

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I used Gel Stain in a walnut color to darken the bamboo. 

Gel stain is getting harder to find at my local hardware stores. You can the Min-Wax brand that I used HERE. I like to use gel stain when I know stain will not soak into whatever I am staining. I did lightly sand the bamboo first, but gel stain sits on top of the wood or bamboo in this case. You don't see the grain as much when using gel stain. I applied it with a soft-bristle brush and wiped out a few of the brush marks with a t-shirt rag. It stays tacky for about 24 hours before it dries.

I am really happy with how the darker color came out. 

I sewed new cushion covers, using grey pillow ticking as my fabric choice. 

The chair is a perfect replacement for a dilapidated one that sits in my library. Our library is a raised loft area at the end of our great room. It is a great place to have morning coffee (or afternoon tea or evening wine 😂) and comfy chairs are a must. This new addition definitely fits the bill. The dog had to check it out. 

The railing in the library is on my to do list this winter--I wan something a little more rustic, maybe reclaimed wood and rebar??

Another thrift store chair makeover in the books. I love rescuing outdated items with new paint, stain, and fabric. Have you upcycled any thrift store finds recently?