The make do chairs on this page are very special and fun chairs. Each is made from an 18th or early 19th Century ladderback arm chair with wings added and period fabrics for the upholstery. There are no two alike. Each takes on its own personality. They make a nice addition to any period room and all are meant to be used and enjoyed.

Historically, make do chairs were the home made version of the very fine wing chairs being produced in all of the major towns. Many of the rural folks could not afford to buy these fine chairs so to stay in style the best way they could, they took a ladderback arm chair adding wings to it and covering it either in a quilt they had or weaving new fabric.

A very different type of make do, this one is entirely wood and, I feel, would be great with very early furniture. It has a very earthy quality to it and the best part it has an arm area that is wide enough for a candle as you see in the picture or could hold a mug or be used for writing. I put one of the 18th Century needlework pillows on the seat or a linsey pad could be used for a more austere look.

Contact me at:

hillwood@aeroinc.net