We all have that one piece of furniture that’s seen better days but holds a special place in our hearts (or our wallets.) For me, it’s my old ratty plaid couch. It’s been through countless movie nights, toddler tumbles, and maybe a few too many snack mishaps (there’s a reason we stopped allowing snacking in the living room…) Instead of tossing it out, I decided to show you how to revive your old couch by giving it a charming facelift using something unexpected: doilies!
So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, creative way to breathe new life into your busted old couch, follow along as I share how doilies can be your secret weapon.
Why Doilies?
Doilies are delicate, lacy, and often underappreciated. They add a touch of vintage charm and are perfect for patching up worn-out spots on your couch. They match a variety of aesthetics including Grand Millennial, Cottage Core, Farmhouse, Vintage, and so many more. Plus, they’re super affordable and easy to find at thrift stores, garage sales, or even in your grandma’s attic. I didn’t use vintage doilies on my couch, and actually purchased a pack of them from Amazon.
What you’ll Need:
Before we hop into it, gather up your supplies:
- A selection of doilies in various sizes, patterns, and colors (you could always coffee or tea dye them to add some patina)
- Fabric glue or a hot glue gun
- Needle and thread (optional for extra durability. If you’re patching up cushions that will be sat on, don’t skip this step)
Step-by-Step Guide to Revive your Old Couch
Step 1: Clean & Prep
Before I even got the doilies out, I gave my couch a good clean. Vacuum any crumbs and spot clean any stains . I just scrubbed the whole thing down with a spray I made that contained vinegar, baking soda, and a small squirt of detergent diluted in water. You want a fresh canvas to work with.
Step 2: Plan Your Layout
Now lay out your doilies on the couch to see how they’ll fit. Play around with different configurations until you find a look you love. You can overlap them for a layered effect or place them strategically to cover specific worn-out areas.
Step 3: Glue and/or Sew
Once you’re happy with your layout, it’s time to secure the doilies. For a quick fix, fabric glue or a hot glue gun works wonders. Keep in mind that hot glue will likely be less durable, but it will probably be the most forgiving if you want to remove the doilies down the line (depending on the fabric of your counch.) Simply apply a thin layer of glue to the edges of the doily and press firmly onto the couch. I used a spray glue, which I really didn’t love. Grab something you can squeeze and control the application better.
For a more permanent solution, you might want to hand sew the doilies onto the fabric. If you’re going to patch up a seat cushion, it’s going to be a must because of how much the fabric and doily will pull from each other when someone sits. You don’t want to embarrass a guest who’s pants caught on your doily and pulled it off! This extra step ensures they stay put even with heavy use. Glue them first for an added layer of adhesion.
Be sure to be mindful if you use glue on cushions without the inserts. Unfortunately there was bleed through because I didn’t put a barrier. Don’t make my mistake!
Step 4: Adding Finishing Touches
Finally, to complete your couch’s makeover, consider adding a few matching throw pillows or a cozy blanket. These little touches can tie everything together and enhance the overall charm. Not to mention the mistakes you can cover if you need to!
Enjoy your New-Old Couch
And there you have it! Your old, ratty sofa is now a lovely, cozy focal point in your living room. Not only did you save money by not buying new furniture, but you also added a unique, personal touch to your home.
I love how the doilies brought a bit of whimsy and charm to our space. I eventually want to redo the living room to have a more cozy cottage vibe, and I think this will fit in so wonderfully once I get a chance to do that! My style is definitely on the vintage side, and I love that the couch feels like a cross between cottage and primitive with a definite English Country feel.
For more DIYs, please check out this category!
Please let me know if you plan to revive your old couch this way, too!
Thanks for visiting!