From old to new – Diane’s Outdoor Swing Transformation!

Meet Diane Findlay

We have done several projects for Diane in her home over the past years and this one brings her so much joy and delight as she looks forward to retirement and summer out in her backyard garden retreat.

Diane told us, “I eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner outside during the summer — my swing is my happy place.” But after years of wear, her swing was showing its age. The cushions were saggy, the canopy was torn, and a makeshift bed sheet was clipped on the back for shade. Diane had just retired and decided it was time to treat herself to something beautiful and lasting — something she’d enjoy every single day.

When she called us, I (Wilma) immediately thought, this is a Sunbrella job!

Choosing the Right Outdoor Fabric

Diane’s swing sits in the heart of her garden, surrounded by a beautiful terracotta patio and a cheerful yellow awning. We wanted her new cushions and canopy to complement these colours — not fight with them.

Sunbrella was the perfect solution. These fabrics are made for outdoor living: fade-resistant, mold- and mildew-resistant, and durable enough to withstand the elements year after year. I always say, “Sunbrella is like a carrot – coloured all the way through. Not like a radish, which looks good outside but is white in the middle.”

Once Diane saw the vibrant patterns and cheerful prints, she was excited to dive into the fun part — choosing fabrics! We paired a bright patterned fabric for the cushion tops with a solid contrast piping for polish. Then, we used a coordinating stripe for the cushion bands and the canopy to tie everything together. The result? A tailored, custom look with maximum functionality.

We loved the fact we were renewing something that Diane truly loved. This wasn’t just about cushions — it was about preserving a space full of memories. With the quality materials we use and the craftsmanship we pride ourselves on, we knew this swing was going to be used over and over again. This creative design solution is long-lasting — not something that will be replaced and tossed out next year due to lack of quality.

A Comfortable, Practical Design

Function was just as important as form. We upgraded Diane’s cushion structure completely — no more frumpy foam. We used high-resilience foam so she wouldn’t feel the bars beneath her, paired with softer back cushions for lounging comfort.

We also created a custom Velcro canopy panel for the back, giving her full shade and privacy, but easy to detach when needed.

A Backyard Retreat, Reimagined

When I delivered Diane’s finished swing makeover, her reaction said it all.

It was such a pleasure working with Diane again — we’ve helped her with other home updates in the past, and she’s always a joy to collaborate with. Her enthusiasm for life and design is contagious, and we’re honoured to be part of her journey as she enters retirement with style.

Thank you, Diane, for trusting us once again. We hope your new outdoor retreat brings many sunny memories and peaceful afternoons in your well-earned retirement.

Can’t wait to pop over and hear of your retirement enjoyment!

Until next month,
Wilma & the Sensational SEAMS Team

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