Just over a month ago, I posted asking for help choosing from 3 options for dining chairs on craigslist. There were lots of opinions, but looking back I'm SOOO happy with the decision. You can access that thread here: http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/load/decor/msg0810151730263.html

It took me quite a while to finish these - a lot of time was spent laboring, and other time was spent agonizing over fabric and paint on the buffet I was also working on (buffet thread here: http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/load/decor/msg0912030213471.html )

Anyway, it turned out to be a much bigger project than I had anticipated, but I'm thrilled with how they turned out.

They're Drexel Heritage, and were in excellent condition if you can look past the fabric. :)

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Details on the chairs:
DIY chalk-like paint made with plaster of paris and a quart of latex paint, Martha Stewart "Popcorn." They got 2 coats, then I wiped on Minwax classic gray stain and wiped off immediately. Then I went back and dry-brushed with my white and sealed with clear polycrylic. The seats are covered in a deep muted purple lightly textured vinyl. if you're interested in ALL the details, you can read all about my process, tools, and drama on my blog post linked below.

but now to tie together all my DIY projects in one post... here are the 3 main ingredients to my future dining room...

Picture the chairs above with:

our refinished table:

and the buffet:

i know it's really leaning to the femme antique side right now, but i'm planning on going heavy on the rustic accents and i'm thinking a more rustic light fixture over the table will make them all work together. i'm planning for giant art above the buffet in a vintage/nostalgic vibe, neither rustic nor feminine. what can i say? i like what i like. :)

accents like this:

and maybe a fixture like this:

Here is a link that might be useful: A Nugget and a Doodle Blog - dining chairs makeover