Repurposed Pew Bench

Ever since moving into our current home I have always envisioned a long bench under these windows. Right off of the kitchen, it makes for the perfect setting spot for eating, or just sipping a hot drink as you sort through the mail. This pew bench is loads of nostalgia for me as it came from the church my family attended when I was a young teen and into my adult years. This same church is where I met my husband. My brother who still attends there with his family told me they were going to be getting new seating in the sanctuary. Save me one! I responded. Not just me, but he as well, jumped at the chance to save and re-use something as sturdy, unique and sentimental.

It was no small task removing the upholstery. Hundreds of staples holding on a thick carpet like material. It not being a desirable color for me I needed it to come off. I made a few adjustment as well, removing the arms and adding two additional leg pieces.

Then after that it was time to think about the finish. It was coated with a protective varnish. Knowing that I wanted to paint it, I had to get the varnish off. I used Klean Strip to get the job done. This step was easy, but time consuming. The chemical liquid of Klean Strip makes the varnish bubble up and then it is easily scraped off with a putty knife. I had lots of rags to wipe the sticky varnish off the putty knife so I could continue scrapping.

With that done it was time to paint. After a little sanding first, I painted the back a clean white.

Looking good now it was time to bring it inside. I bought some bench cushions on Amazon and added some pillows.

This is a really comfy place to sit (or lay down lol) in our in house!