Fabulously Green

Looking for a quick style fix this weekend? Give any chair a fresh faced look by sewing a simple cushion. Sure you could upholster them in any fabric, but a rescued, vintage print injects an extra je ne sais quoi. Take this pair of cushions for example by Kim of Desire to Inspire:

[I] found two scarves at a cheesy store – they were $7.50 each. Not so sure about the left one, but I love the pattern on the right one. It’s ok that they don’t really match each other because they’re going on opposite sides of the bed.

Where to Score Fabrics

• Your local Goodwill or thrift shop: a surprising treasure trove of fabrics for the sewing novice (like me). Keep your eye out for dresses, skirts, scarves in bold prints or sophisticated colors.

• Local vintage fabric sources: check your city’s “Best of” Magazine for names. Like Best of Philly winner Pamela Simon Vintage Fabrics. Tip: Show the store a photo of a desired look and let the shop find you a similar alternative.

• Revival Fabrics: Hollywood costume designers hit up Revival for its large inventory of mint condition fabrics from the 20s to 50s. They sell online and stock many indie designers as well.

• ebay: The online “it” source for that hard-to-find Marimekko print and other collectibles.

How Make the Stuffing

• Rescue those oh-so-old pillows, sofa cushions, comforters. They make perfect cushion stuffers — and they’re free.

Sewing It Up

Upholster.com offers some basic tips to pillow making. Or take it to an upholsterer. For modern, high style patterns and tips give these books a try: Simple Sewing with a French Twist and Amy Butler’s In Stitches.