Chippendale Chair
(Ladder Back)
6
01:31:17
Beginner
Learn the essential skills to completely transform a Chippendale (Ladder Back) chair. In this hands-on course, you’ll master how to burn, colour, prepare, and upholster the frame, taking it from a classic bare chair to a beautifully finished, durable piece.
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What you will learn
How to burn and colour the wood for a rich, lasting finish
Preparing the frame for repairs and upholstery
Selecting the right materials and tools
Upholstery techniques for a polished, comfortable seat
Step-by-step transformation process for a classic Chippendale chair
What our students can make
Choose Your Lesson
1. Introduction to the Chippendale (Ladder Back) Chair
In this introductory module, we talk you through the Chippendale ladder back chair frame, which you can purchase from our friends at Antique Street at a discounted price as an Ultimate member. We show you how the frame arrives to you and the quality of the frames.
We then explain our plans for this project and outline everything we will cover throughout the course, so you know exactly what to expect as we transform this classic chair into a beautifully upholstered piece.
2. How to Colour the Frame of a Chippendale Chair, Including Burnt Detailing
In this module, we begin by showing you how to prep your bare Chippendale frame after delivery so it is clean, smooth and ready to be coloured. Once prepared, we move on to a unique and creative technique for adding rustic decorative detail. To achieve this look, we use a controlled burning method that brings out the natural grain and gives the frame real character.
We then show you how to stain the wood to enhance the contrast and make the detailing pop. By the end of this lesson, your frame will be fully prepared and beautifully finished, ready for the next stages of the course.
3. How to Lacquer the Frame of a Chippendale Chair
In this module, we show you what lacquer we like to use and how to apply it to your Chippendale chair frame. Lacquering brings out the shine, enhances the rustic detailing and adds depth to the colour you created in the previous stage. You will learn how to apply it evenly and how to achieve a smooth, durable finish that protects the wood and strengthens the overall look.
By the end of this lesson, your frame will have a rich sheen and a professional finish, ready for the upholstery stages of the course.
4. How to Prep the Drop in Dining Seat Pad of the Chippendale Chair
In this module, we show you how to prepare your drop in dining seat pad before adding the fabric. You will learn how to add the webs, how to protect them from the foam and how to build up the foam layers to create a seat that is both durable and comfortable.
We also share tips on choosing the right amount of padding so the finished seat pad fits back into the chair frame perfectly without being too tight or too loose. By the end of this lesson, your seat pad will be properly prepared and ready for upholstery.
5. Cutting and Upholstering the Fabric of a Chippendale Chair
In this module, we show you how to measure your drop in seat pad for fabric, how to cut the fabric to the correct size and how to upholster the pad step by step. You will learn how to keep the fabric smooth and even all the way around, avoiding ripples or tack ties.
We also show you how to finish the corners neatly so there is no bulky fabric getting in the way when the pad is placed back into the frame. By the end of this lesson, your seat pad will be cleanly upholstered and ready to be fitted into your Chippendale chair.
6. How to Attach a Bottom (Dust Cover) to Your Dining Pad and Fit It Back Into the Frame
In this final module, we show you how to attach bottoming fabric to your dining pad to hide the staples and webbings, giving the underside a clean and professional finish. You will learn how to cut, position and secure the dust cover neatly so the pad looks well finished from every angle.
We then show you how to fit the completed dining pad back into the Chippendale frame with ease, ensuring it sits correctly and securely. By the end of this lesson, your chair will be fully assembled and ready to enjoy.
