Antique Telephone Bench Makeover

I have always had my eyes on an Antique Telephone Bench, also known as, a Gossip Bench. They are not manufactured anymore because simply no one uses land lines. Well, more specifically, these telephone benches were created between 1920-1950 as a place to sit while chit-chatting away. As cords got longer and eventrually cordless, these antique benches started to disappear. Showing up only at Estate or Garage Sales.

I have come across a few in my recent years that were beyond repair and TOO expensive. Finally, last October was the annual church rummage sale and what was the first thing I see, a Telephone bench in pretty good condition.

It needed a new seat, some upholstery, and just a little wood glue in some spots. More importantly, it was only $15!

Before: nothing fancy and a fresh start to it’s new home

After some sanding and a good paint job it became a little less dreary and more “us.”

But here was the fun part! FABRIC!!

Fabric is something that can make a space, a piece, have new life. I wanted something with color but I wanted it to have a “vintage” feel.

I knew I had found the right piece when I saw this Jacquered Velvet Green Fabric

Now, the color isn’t that green apple but it was the best sample I could fine.

Anyhoo, here is my new bench, compeltely madeover for our basement play space.