Poking around the furniture section of a local thrift store, I came across this 1977 Steelcase office chair. Even before I knew Steelcase was a name denoting quality, I could tell this was a well-built chair. Grungy as she was, her potential was clear. No repeat of that 70’s yellow for this one. I had already decided she would wear something much more festive! When I came across the aqua Polka Dots, the decision was made for me.
Aqua polka dots on a green ground – perfect for an oceanside office
Do you see her in different garb? What fabric would you like to see on this chair?
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Carla:
I have 3 Steelcase barrel chairs with the plastic back and plastic rim where the cloth front meets the plastic back. I haven’t found any instructions on how to reupholster them. Specifically, how to remove the plastic rim (and replace it). Can you give me some input on this?
Thanks.
Carol
Hi Carol,
This was one chair for which I did not photograph the process, but I can tell you what to try first: use a small prying tool to lift the plastic rim/edging away from the outside shell – it might be easiest to start at the top, where you should find a screw at each corner. Unscrew these and work your way around the edge to the bottom, unscrewing any more that you find (I can’t remember how many there are in all – maybe 6?). Once you get the screws out, the outer shell will separate from the inner shell and you can take the fabric off. Be sure to take lots of pictures as you take it apart, so you know how it goes back together. Use the old fabric pieces as a pattern – steaming helps flatten them out. Good Luck!