Super Cool Chair Tent

The chair tent is the cornerstone of every child's architectural knowledge base. The old fashion version usually consisted of 4 or more chairs with 1 or more blankets tossed over the backs of the chairs. This resulted in a saggy topped tent with open spaces everywhere that collapsed the third time someone entered.

This Instructable will show you a new version that allows you to create a structurally sound chair tent that you can set up and take down in seconds. It is constructed entirely out of fabric so it can be folded and stored away quite easily. (If you want to recycle -- an old queen size sheet set will accommodate the entire project.)

This is a beginning level sewing project, so let your kids help plan, cut, sew, decorate, etc. Or you could make it yourself and surprise them with a cool looking, easy to use, chair tent.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

Gather your supplies.

You will need:

• 8 yards of woven fabric or one set of queen sheets (pillow cases included)
• Sewing machine
• Thread to match
• Scissors
• Pins
• Tape measure
• Various prints of scrap fabric for decoration
• (Not necessary but super handy: a rotary cutter, ruler and cutting mat)

If you choose to decorate with appliques you will also need:

• Fusable Web (Wonder-Under)
• Paper or lightweight cardboard for making applique patterns
• Iron
• Various prints and sizes of fabric for decoration

New fabric can be used instead of the sheet set. Fabric usually comes in 42"-44" widths and is sold by the linear yard. You may choose to make each tent wall or top from different fabric. If so, refer to the "cutting the pieces" step to see how much of each type of fabric you should buy.

Comments

[baba4]

should call it a chent a cross between a chair and tent :{)

[jessyratfink]

This is a great idea! If I had sturdier chairs I think I'd go home and sew one up. :D

[porcupinemamma]

Well Done!!! :0)

[woodchopper]

I should clarify my first comment by saying, "It is an incredible "outside the box idea" ... in other words it is a very creative project. I think my son Chucky will like it a lot ... he gets very violent when his chair tent falls on him, I mean violent! Thanks for your help hp.

[hpoinsett]

I wasn't quite sure about your first comment, thanks for clarifying. Thanks for the great comment. I hope that you get one made for Chucky's sake.

[seamster]

This is great for so many reasons! It's a well-documented clever idea, your photos and writing are good, and you've included patterns to follow so others can duplicate it. I'm going to have to make one of these for my kids.

[hpoinsett]

Thanks for the comments. Good luck and have fun.

[sweetsue77]

A sewing friend just sent me your link -- how adorable! You are so clever and talented. You certainly have my vote for first place! I can't wait to start your project with my daughter-in-laws -- we're going to have the tents ready before the grandkids show up! Thanks so much for sharing.

[hpoinsett]

Thanks for the sweet comments. Good luck and have fun with the daughters-in-law. I enjoy sharing my love of sewing with my two wonderful daughters-in-law as well.

[woodchopper]

woodchopper says: It is so outside of original ... I used to hate it when I was a kid and the blanket kept falling in on us. Great idea ... Phina must love it.

[kyannik]

This is such a great idea! I wish I knew some little kids so I could make one for them.

[hpoinsett]

Go ahead and make one.....the kids will come.

[ohthatdeb]

(You can make one for mine...!))

[KnotaKlue17]

I just love your chair tent! Your directions and pictures make it very easy for even a novice like myself. I went out and got supplies to make my own today. I only hope mine turns out as cute as yours. The kids will love it:)

[hpoinsett]

Have fun and good luck.

[sarahfish]

excellent job on your first instructable! really well done!

[EaglesNest]

Wonderful idea, great instructable!