cyn427--I considered painting the background cream, but actually didn't paint it at all. I didn't want the background too stark since we really don't have any other white out there, so just left it with the sort of beige viney floral design it had, then taped off what I wanted to remain unpainted. That way it also was easier for me since I just sprayed exterior black on the whole thing (used a few coats of rustoleum ultra 2x coverage) then just peeled off the tape. Surprisingly, it doesn't even feel any stiffer than the fabric already felt. I'll try to post a close up. From a distance, it just looks like the background color is light linen. If it looks purple instead of black that may just be my poor phone camera picture. Purple would have been cute, but I'm not that creative! clblakey--The seat is actually a typical outdoor fabric that you see on many patio sets. I think it's nylon, and it doesn't seem plastic. We have it on a couple chairs we've had for several years, and the fabric seems to hold up quite well so far. BTW, I loved your permanent marker coloring the wire on your crystals in the post a pic thread! my3dogs--you know how much I've loved seeing your projects! Your comments mean a lot, and I'll try to post if I ever finish something else. teacats--I'll try to give an update at the end of the summer on how it held up. I'm wondering that myself! trailrunner--If you were close to me, I'd love to help you paint chevrons on your glider! And to ALL the rest of you --I've seen your homes you've shared and admired your tricky organzational ideas (mustangs), your helpful suggestions (teacats)....well, all of you--thanks for your kind encouragement. I love seeing what you all do to make your worlds interesting.

I don't know if you ever purchased the Lloyd Flanders furniture. It is pricey. But I can vouch for its longevity and beautiful design. I have had two LF side chairs and matching round table for at least 20-25 years. This furniture does best in a sheltered location e.g., a porch or covered deck where it doesn't get a lot of rain or other wet weather. Mine has been completely out in the elements and eventually the fibers weaken and begin to break. I doubt this would have happened in a sheltered location. I still think very highly of this brand of furniture.

Find a high quality fabric shop in your area that also does fabricated items for your home, and they can fashion anything you like; bring lots of inspiration pictures❣️

I would use a roman shade on the window, mounted at the ceiling to retain the most light when open. Get one with a blackout lining. A roman shade allows you to open the window even if the shade is partially down. For the sliders, I think drapes are best. Mount the rod just below the soffit, and extend it on either side of the doors, so you have room for the drapes to hang out of the way. If you use good quality fabric, again with linings, you can have great light and climate control.