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
Antique Telephone Bench Makeover
I needed to glue a few loose pieces but nothing major
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.