I've inherited four cane chairs, which I intend to paint black. I'd like to update the canvas cushions too - I have in mind a scheme of black and cream stripes - but don't want to reupholster. What do you suggest?

Permaset fabric paints would be perfect for this project, advises Tolly Vostanis, Sales Associate at Tilly's Art & Office Suppliesin Rozelle, NSW. "If your canvas cushions are a dark colour to begin with, or you intend painting white over black, use Permaset Supercover," he says. "This is a special paint that stops the background colour from bleeding through." After you've created the stripes, heat-set the painted surface with an iron to render it permanent and washable. Expect to pay around $13 for a 300ml container of regular Permaset paint or $22 for the Supercover formula. Tilly's Art & Office Supplies; (02) 9810 8309.