This is one of my very, very favorite projects. I converted this French crib to a settee.
I had already converted two cribs before to settees, HERE and HERE.
This one is a bit different This one is an antique also, but it is FRENCH, so the dimensions are different. The other cribs I was able to use a standard brand new crib mattress for the cushion. The standard mattress did not fit this crib. I found the crib at Round Top in case you are wondering. Just look at that rusty finish!
(I would so love to meet you in person in Houston on June 18!!!)
Okay back to the crib!
The scrollwork is simply divine on this piece. For the mattress, I gave the dimensions, the fabric, and a picture of what I wanted to my upholstery guy and he made the cushion for me. Could I have made it myself. Yes! But, I am just swamped right now, and the thought of doing all of that hand work was making my head spin.
Before I put the clean, new mattress on the crib, I cleaned the crib, then after it dried, I sprayed it with a clear sealer. I didn’t want to get rust on my new mattress.
I used a similar technique to protect this antique iron bed, shown HERE. If you want to know where to find one of these French cribs, I’ve only seen them in person at Round Top during the Antique Show.
I took the daybed that was on my back porch, shown below, and moved it to the guest room, so it isn’t back here any more.
Here is the daybed in my guest room.
So you can see why I need a another bed on the porch. Actually, the truth is, having a daybed on the porch looks romantic, but it’s a lot of upkeep. The crib is different. I bring the mattress inside when it isn’t being used. This mattress is much smaller than a twin sized mattress. And the pillows when stored inside take up a lot less room.
To be completely honest, this crib is a bit low to sit in. I just bought it any way, because I really, really (really) wanted it.
My special this week is my cross plaque kit. You’ll have tons of paint left over to use on many projects. Try out the technique on the plaque, then use it on things you already have. Get 20% with the discount code KIT20 .
Anita- this is just gorgeous! Well done! I am so inspired to do this myself. Thank you. And I love your haircut. It’s very chic and very French. Have a great weekend!
Love your daybed! Was wondering if your daybed was wider thax crib. I found one like that. Was surprised when I got it ho e and realized it was wider!
Yes the crib is much smaller and more narrow than the daybed Margie.
Anita, the French crib is beautiful! How did you clean it before applying the clear coat? I found a beautiful rusty urn at a yard sale that I want to clear coat. I’m just not sure how to go about cleaning it first.
I used dishwashing soap. I think the main thing is to scrape off any loose rust. I used a very stiff brush, and rubbed off the rust with a dry cloth.
Hi…love your blog! I am asking about the little basket near the foot of the day bed . I found one just like it…I assumed someone had sprayed special initials on it. Do you anything about the meaning?
I think the initials on the picnic basket might be on there because the basket originally came from Fortnum and Mason – the English department store. One of their specialties are luxury hampers for tea and picnics.
Debbie, Colleen is correct. That is a hamper that my husband picked up in London for me. It’s from Fortnum and Mason.
OH this is so pretty! Love it
Love what you did with the crib! Did you have the mattress made with the ticking fabric or can it be purchased that way?
Yes it was my fabric Nancy.
Just Beautiful!!! I have always wanted to have something like this on my porch!! For now I will just admire and love yours 🙂
I absolutely love these crib to settee conversions. In particular, the beautiful linens that you incorporated. Wish I lived neat Round Top. ??
Where is that cushion from or did you have it made?? I am kind of obsessed with it!
Thanks!
LT
Had it made Liz.
A most beautiful conversion Anita!
Did you make the mattress for the crib yourself. If so do you by chance have a site that shows directions.
Teresa, I had it made to my specifications, so I don’t have any instructions I to share. That’s a great idea!
Sarah, from SHE HOLDS DEARLY, gives directions on how to make these French mattresses. She made one and it is lovely.
That crib is so cute on your porch. I really love the blue-striped material that was picked out to make the mattress.
She’s just so sweet, Anita! (I decided the bench is a “she” and I won’t take any argument on this matter.) I’ve got a daybed project in mind and hope to make my own french style mattress — I’ll let you know how it goes!
I am in love with this!! So much so that I have just bought a daybed to do the same thing! Mine is an antique too… so I am really concerned it won’t hold 2 people – did you put something on this to strengthen it at all? Thank you!
This French crib did not not need additional support. You will need to check your frame to see if it will support people sitting on it. It’s hard for me to say what yours needs without seeing it. They are all so different, especially antique pieces.
This is so lovely! Is it comfortable and solid enough for sleeping? (Assuming it was larger)
Thanks!
Probably so Susan. It’s comfortable, but small!
Hi, Anita. This was a fabulous project! So pretty! Saw that you were at Round Top and wondered if you had ever visited my friend, Nedra O’Brien at Carmine Dance Hall. She just retired after her 50th consecutive show with fine Antique Linens and hand cut Silhouettes in Antique frames.
This show, she sold the most gorgeous Antique tablecloth. It had many different Joan of Arc scenes in fine embroidery, most probably handcrafted by nuns at a convent.
Anyway, she still has the most extensive, over 40 years of collecting, Linens you will ever see.
If ever you are interested in some pieces, please let me know.
Thank you! Nancy
Nancy, I don’t think I have. I’m sorry I missed her! Wow, what a legacy.
Hi Anita,
I have 2 beautiful iron benches that were made out of beds. I would like to have cushions made for them and love your French crib transformation. Do you think your upholstery guy would consider making 2 for me if I send him my dimensions? I am not a seamstress and would like to have cushions made. I love how your crib turned out. It is so sweet!
I would suggest finding an upholstery person near you. Most places don’t ship.
Thank you Anita. I do have the photo of your crib mattress to go by. I appreciate your immediate response. Have a good day.