Ever wonder what an early 1900’s piece is made up of?

(Click here to see more pics before)

This piece has so much potential,  but to uncover that potential is no easy task!

There are so many different layers that make up this piece.  Way back when this piece was originally created it took many hours and innovation to put together.  All by hand… every stitch and every nail.

It took me a long time to deconstruct it, removing every stitch and every nail… I can only imagine how long it took to make it.  And the quality… VERY high end … it was so well put together I ran into a few snags to take it apart, right down to it’s bare bones.

Originally I thought that I would remove the fabric, repair the springs and be able to use most of what was already there.  Wrong!  Once the fabric was removed I realized how dry and fragile the insides were.  Crumbling to dust when touched in some places.

There were layers of burlap, straw, horse hair, and cotton.

The smell was too much as well.  Very musty and dusty with that old “sweet” smell… yet not a good sweet.  It’s difficult to describe but all I know is that it just couldn’t be made to go away simply by covering it up with fabric.

The springs were another problem …

They were in a bit of a mess and sadly I decided to remove those as well.

I love the way the construction says so much about the time it was built in.  The resources available … the craftsmanship.  I have to say, I learned a lot in just taking it apart.

So sad that it has to be thrown out because of smell and decay.

I did manage to find 2 more castors to replace the 2 that were missing.

And now that it’s stripped down to the bare bones and the messy part is over, it’s time for the best part…

Just waiting for some paint and a new dress :)

I can’t wait to share more on the progress soon!

I hope you’re having a great week!

Smiles!

Terry

Linking up to:

Miss Mustard Seed