After months of pondering on fabrics, I *think* I found the perfect fabric to recover the chairs. Now I am a bit undecided about the frame. I was initially going to get rid of the brass trim, but now think it cooperates with the fabric. Also, I started to refinish the chairs with a minwax product called polyshades. I chose the espresso satin finish, which came out a bit darker than I hoped for. Also it's a bit thick and difficult to work with especially when applying it to so many small surfaces. It's not as perfect as I would want, but it's not horrible either. So, 1) should I keep the brass trim or get rid of it, and replace it with a self welt (cost me $$ to bring to upholsterer) and 2) should I continue working with polyshades or try something different. It sorta looks like black paint so wondering if I should save myself the headache and go straight to spray paint! Has anyone refinished chairs with stain, or am I mad for trying?