I admit it, I’m a sucker for a settee. French settees in particular are amongst my favorites.  I’ve got an amazing one at my kitchen table that I’ll probably never part with. Just a few months ago I snagged this one on Craigslist. It had two amazing chairs that I’ll be redoing for a client soon, but this little preppy guy was in bad need of a makeover. Here’s how I did it. 


I’m a lover of sentimentality, but the tartan fabric from Scotland was old and worn in certain spots. It took a day to strip it down and then I had a few repairs to make before it was ready. I went through a few scenarios of what this settee could look like, but in the end, I selected a quilt that I bought online from Uzbekistan.

The embroidery is amazing and vibrant with reds, pinks, green, blue and florescent orange. Next, I had to decide layout of the quilt to make sure to get the best look.

Did I mention that this settee is about 100 years old?  Yes, a real antique but in fabulous condition and ready for a new life for many years to come. 

I could have done the medallion on the seat, but in the end, I choose to put it on the backside. 


The gold finish was aged and needed a little bit of smoothing and sanding, but what is left is still breathtaking in my opinion. 



I’m really loving the bohemian feel. Lately, I can’t get enough of red and pink. It’s colorful, and yet not too over done. Truly, it could even work at a kitchen or dining table, paring it with some other chairs to give it an eclectic look. 

And the best part is, it’s for sale! You can find it on my etsy shop here.  

Are you a sucker for old settees too? I’m curious, is there anyone else out there who loves settees like I do? Please let me know in the comments section so that I don’t feel so odd! 🙂