What's old is new again

by brae Email

I found this vintage white wire set on eBay and instantly saw its potential.  All the pieces were in sorry shape.  The chairs were chipped and had paint globs on them.  The table was also chipped and the acrylic top was shattered.  The swing had glue residue on it as well as a tendency to wobble.  The stroller worked and seemed sturdy, but it also had glue residue on it.


original photo from ebay seller

I sanded down the excess paint and glue before spraying the pieces with grey primer.  I painted the table and chairs with Valspar Odds 'n' Ends Chrome.  The cushions for the chair are made from purple cotton stuffed with millinery batting.  I glued them to the seats since there was really no way to get them to stay in place otherwise.

I cut a new tabletop from acrylic sheet.  It is thinner than the original, but it is clean and scratch free.  :D

Here's the set in front of Baxter Pointe Villa.  What a lovely day to sit outside and enjoy an iced tea.

It looks so contemporary now.

I feel like I've thrifted in mini, giving this old set a new lease on life!

I am still working on the stroller and swing, so those after photos will come later.

14 comments

Comment from: Norma [Visitor]
That is a great makeover, love the 'chrome' look.
10/27/11 @ 22:19
Comment from: Teresa [Visitor]
Those look great!
10/28/11 @ 00:11
Comment from: Fabiola [Visitor]
I like this "new" set and the color.
Bye Faby
10/28/11 @ 02:34
Comment from: natalie wilson [Visitor]
I adore the table and chairs. The purple and silver go so well together. Please can you show us how you made the little stand for the 1 cent coin. It is a great idea.

Thanks
10/28/11 @ 03:50
Comment from: Susan [Visitor]
Wow! You've a great eye! These "new" things look perfect in place.
10/28/11 @ 03:57
Comment from: Kikka [Visitor]
Gorgeous...Love it!
10/28/11 @ 03:58
Comment from: Eliana [Visitor]
The reform was amazing!
10/28/11 @ 04:59
Comment from: Lyssa [Visitor]
Beautiful, my friend. I loves it. :)
10/28/11 @ 06:13
Comment from: Dawn [Visitor]
I have this set from the seventies and am looking at it with new eyes thanks to your restoration. Thanks!
10/28/11 @ 06:44
Comment from: Lucille [Visitor]
Talk about being at the right place at the right time! Beautiful work as always, Brae. I love that purple offset against the silver.
10/28/11 @ 07:31
Comment from: brae [Member] Email
Thanks so much, everyone!

The wire holder for the penny is actually a book stand from The Miniature Bookshelf (http://miniaturebookshelf.com). It was included in a book assortment I bought some time ago.
10/28/11 @ 09:02
Comment from: Maria- [Visitor]
You have done a fantastic job with these. I love how they turned out.
Hugs Maria
10/28/11 @ 13:56
Comment from: EVA MARIA FERNANDEZ SANZ [Visitor]
Me encanta la restauración que has hecho. Un saludo, Eva
10/28/11 @ 17:09
Comment from: Keli [Visitor]
Nice refinishing job, they look like brand new retro inspired pieces.
10/29/11 @ 04:18