making an upholstered bench

You can make an upholstered bench or restore a small sofa with salvaged materials. For instance, the multiple-fold slats of a one- or two-person slat bed base make a very comfortable seat. The slats can be easily unclipped from the base; new slats can also be purchased in stores. To assemble the slats to the frame, saw them to the right size, and then drill pilot holes into which you will drive your screws.

To make the frame, assemble 4 x 2½ in (10 x 6.5 cm) battens of hard wood using the gluing-doweling technique. Add two pieces cross-wise to reinforce the seat. You will need two dowels per joint (16 wood dowels all together). You can also reinforce the frame corners with small, metal screw-on brackets. In lieu of a frame, you can use small 2 ft x 2 ft 7 in (60 x 80 cm) pallets. Adapt the dimensions as needed.

To join the slat-bed legs, drill holes in each corner of your frame, using a wood drill bit the same size as the screws of the legs, usually about 6 mm. Then widen the upper part of each hole using a hole saw and wood chisel, in order to make room for the bolts. Allow enough space for the wrench you will be using. Do not attach the legs yet.

Saw 12 multifold slats to the width of the seat. Drill pilot holes with a wood drill bit on both ends of each slat. Assemble each slat to the frame using wood screws.

Screw the legs to the frame. Place a large piece of foam, a small mattress or a seat cover stuffed with wool on your frame. Staple a heavy-duty canvas over this, then cover with a nice blanket, patchwork quilt or quilted bedspread. Add a few pillows.

This type of small sofa is reminiscent of oriental tea rooms. To create a Morrocan-style banquette, simply add a panel of finely worked wood to decorate the front. The extra height of this panel will hold the foam in place. Sew a cover out of natural cloth.

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February 2007 [upholstery]
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