At Modern Fabrics, we love seeing how our customers turn creative vision into beautifully finished pieces, especially when it involves rescuing something old and forgotten. One of our favorite recent examples comes from talented upholsterer Cathleen O’Connell, catocochairco who transformed a discarded chair into a vibrant, one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Meet the “Corbin Curbside Chair”
This makeover began with a simple text from a friend who spotted a worn-out chair left on the side of the road. Cathleen didn’t hesitate — she quickly went to “rescue” it and began what would become a true labor of love. The chair, smaller than a traditional wingback, had beautiful wooden legs and great bones. With some care and creativity, it’s now one of the best sitting chairs around.
The Makeover Story
What makes this chair special isn’t just the revival — it’s the thoughtful details that went into every step.
Cathleen fully stripped the piece, replaced the old springs with webbing and high-quality foam, refinished the legs, and gave the chair a bold new identity using our Designtex Chunky Tweed: Pink — a Crypton Upholstery Tweed by West Elm, sourced from Modern Fabrics.
A Closer Look at the Fabric
This standout pink tweed brings both personality and performance. It’s not just stylish — it’s built for real life:
Pattern: Chunky Tweed
Colorway: Pink
Collection: West Elm
Content: 61% Acrylic, 39% Polyester
Backing: Acrylic
Application: Upholstery, pillow
Width: 55″
Weight: 25 oz/linear yard
Durability: 80,000+ double rubs
Performance: Abrasion Resistant, Water-Based Stain Resistance
This Crypton fabric combines texture and charm with incredible durability, making it ideal for reupholstered furniture, especially pieces that need to stand up to everyday use without sacrificing style.
Where to See It
The Corbin Curbside Chair will soon be available for purchase at paynemillantiques, located in Macon, Georgia. With its fresh pink tweed and expert craftsmanship, this chair is ready to turn heads and find a new home.
Inspired? Start Your Own Transformation
Cathleen’s project is proof that with a little vision — and the right fabric — you can breathe new life into even the most overlooked furniture. Whether you’re upcycling a roadside find or refreshing a family heirloom, our carefully curated collection of eco-friendly, high-performance designer fabrics can help bring your idea to life.
- Browse more fabrics here.
- Get your own tweed fabric here.
Thank you, Cathleen, for sharing your beautiful work and showing how Modern Fabrics can play a part in turning curbside finds into showroom-quality pieces. We can’t wait to see what you create next!