Thursday, August 6, 2009

Playtime for Pennies

How do you go from this...

to this for under $40? Okay, so maybe it costs more than just pennies, but nonetheless it's still a chic-on-the-cheap decorating idea. I can't take credit for this crafty creation, my friend Rachel made this precious playtable and chairs set for a friend's daughter. I thought it was a beautiful and thoughtful gift and one anyone can make for their own kids.




The table and two chairs come as a set from Ikea for $25 and it costs about $15 to jazz it up with paint and fabric. I should mention that I gave Rachel the fabric for this set. I let her rummage through my scrap fabrics, so if you have scrap fabric or a friend that stocks up ask if they will donate some to your project. You can also use any of these gorgeous oilcloth and vinyl coated fabrics below available here.

Step 1: Paint the wood before you assemble and let dry overnight.
Step 2: Cut your fabric pieces to fit the chair seats and table top. You'll need one large cut for the table and two small cuts for the seats.
Step 3: Wrap the chairs' seats and table top with fabric and stable or glue to underside.
Step 4: Assemble chairs and table. Follow the Ikea instructions that come with the set.

It's that easy! If you want to use fabric that is not pretreated like the vinyl coated or oilcloth below, you can iron on a vinyl coating available a most fabric stores and available here. That's what Rachel did for this set and I watched her prep the fabric. It's really easy and all you need is an iron and a pair of scissors.

So there you have it. Now go and make your own adorable set so your kids will stop destroying your expensive furniture. Have a great weekend!
























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