Article 1 : Chair Covers It may not seem like it with snow still thick on the ground but Spring/Summer 2013 Wedding Season is fast approaching. Understandably, it is every brides dream to have a no expense spared, show stopper of a wedding day but with costs adding up you may find yourself feeling as though you must compromise, rethink those special little touches that you have always dreamed of.  Here at Calico Laine we want to show you how your dream wedding can become a reality at just a fraction of the cost. There is a lot to be said for creating your own special touches, not least the obvious financial aspects but knowing that every element of your day has been created with love and care.  That every touch is true to your tastes and personality and reflects the dynamic of your relationship.  Ensuring that every aspect is individual and unique to you.  The sense of achievement, of looking back at your wedding day and being able to say, "I did that". Over the next few weeks we hope to guide and inspire you with our series of 'How To' guides.  First up, chair covers..... You may choose to decorate the chairs at your ceremony or reception for a number of reasons.  You may be unhappy with the style or condition of the chairs provided at your venue and wish to cover them with fabric and sashes in order to make them more appealing.  Or, you may wish to match the chairs with the colour scheme of your flowers, decorations, and bridesmaid dresses.  Here at Calico Laine, you will be able to choose from our wide selection of Fabrics and colours to decorate your chairs with covers and sashes in keeping with your unique taste and wedding theme. Equipment Required: * Tape measure *Chair cover material, choose from our range of satin, damask, Organza, cotton or Muslin online at www.calicolaine.co.uk *Safety pin *Tulle or Taffeta for your chair sashes *Silk or fresh flower (optional)   Step 1: Use your tape measure to calculate the quantity of Fabric required for your cover.  Measure the width and length of the chair from the top of the chair to the front legs and again from the back top of the chair to the back legs.  Total the front and back measurements and add an extra three inches to the width.  This is to account for securing the material on the chair. Step 2: Place your chosen material over the chair so it is covered in its entirety. Step 3: Gather the loose hanging material from either side of the chair and pin it in place at the back of the chair.  Either hand stitch the fabric in place or use a safety pin to attach the loose ends together. Step 4: Measure the width of the backrest of the chair.  Cut your chosen tulle or taffeta into wide strips, double the length of the width of the backrest.  Wrap your sash around the backrest and tie into a neat bow at the back of the chair. Step 5: For that added touch of class, pin a flower at the centre of the bow.  You can use a silk flower or a fresh flower. You now have your very own unique chair covers!  All tools and fabric can be purchased from Calico Laine, either on our website or by calling 0151 336 3939 where one of our friendly sales team will be happy to assist you.  Don't forget to post pictures of your completed chair covers to our Facebook page.