Summer Camp Chair Tutorial (That you can make yourself!)

When I was little my siblings and I had these little camp stools--and we used them ALL the time.  I remember carting them around to parades, fireworks, campouts, bonfires, and every other summer activity that we did.  Ahh, those were the days....

So, in my summer nostalgia, I was telling Liz about how I wanted to make some stools like I had when I was little for our kids.  And so we started talking....and we came up with these summer camp stools for our kids.  AND.  THEY.  ARE. AMAZING.  They are light, portable...and the best part......YOU DON'T EVEN HAVE TO ASK YOUR HUBBY TO MAKE THEM.  They are so easy!  Really.  And they can each be made for around $6 dollars a piece.  Even better.

OK.  Here is the deal.  Go to your local home improvement store...ask them to cut the pieces, and help you find the rest of the pieces.  You will have to drill 4 holes and that's it.  Really.  We promise that you can do it!

Girl power!


OK, here's what you need to do to make the seat covers.  One helpful tip--use a super heavy duty canvas.  It needs to be able to hold the child's weight and not stretch out or rip. 

Update:  Someone suggested ripstop nylon...which is brilliant!  I just googled it and found several internet resources and it runs around 10 dollars a yard but apparently holds a lot more weight than canvas.  I haven't tried it but if you are looking for a heavier-weight to hold a bigger child...this might be your answer.

And here's how you make the seats.  We did end up priming and painting our pvc pieces....because they have black labels and numbers on them.  Just so you know.  Update....Ann left us a comment that you can use acetone (fingernail polish remover) to take the black labels off.  Genuis.  Thanks Ann!

Ok....go.  Now.  To your local store.  I promise you will find someone to help you.  I always look for a grandpa type helper :) and they always help me.  Your kids will thank you.  And you will be proud of your DIY self too!