reupholstering kitchen chairs

[Brisen]

We were given six nice wooden chairs -- they are made of wood, and the seat is a piece of wood, cushiony filler stuff, and some kind of fake velvety/veloury/somethingy material over top, and stapled under the seat. They're pretty grungy now, I would like to replace the cushions and put something more kid proof and easy to clean. What materials are best for this? Any tips for taking it apart and putting the new stuff on?

[Kim]

What style are the chairs? Antique, Mission, Shaker?

I don't like the idea of using Scotchguard, so as far as kid-friendly I love, love, love our leather couch and chairs. (I know that many here are ethically opposed to this, but I'm putting it out there anyway.)

What about seagrass? Or you could always find an upholstery fabric you love that may not be kid-friendly and just plan to replace it in a year or two.

[MagentaMom]

Leather, vinyl, anything coated that you can wipe, wipe, wipe. If you have fallen in love with a print you can always cover it with a clear vinyl. That is, of course, if your not afraid of sliding right off. I'm sure I'm not the only person with a crazy great aunt that would keep the entire sofa covered with vinyl. Sure the fabric was lovely, but noboby wanted to sit on it!

[MagentaMom]

Oh, as for taking it apart and putting it back on. Dining chairs are pretty easy. You'll have to flip it and have a look. It should just involve removing some screws. Cut your fabric in a square 3-4 inches bigger than you seat all the way around. Place the seat face down on the wrong side of the fabric. Pull the middle of each side back over the bottom of the seat tightly and staple. Fold the corners back neatly. Staple all around being sure to keep your fabric snug. Put the screws back in and your done. You can add new batting and remove your old fabric while you've got it all apart, if you want.

[Brisen]

Hmmmm, I have no idea what style they are. The backs are straight and made of that wicker mesh stuff. Similar to this. But the mesh goes all the way down to the seat, there is no gap.

I hadn't considered leather. Out of our price range atm, but something to think about for another time.

As for covering them with vinyl -- I wonder if I could do the seats in something I like, and then just get or make some chair pads in something like vinyl, that tie on? One of the chairs had an extra cushion in matching fabric that tied on, the boys love it and fight over who gets to use it.