Process
What does the upholstery process entail? Here are the typical steps involved in transforming a tired piece of furniture into something like new, but better, or bringing to life a new piece of furniture.
There's something special about giving new life to an old piece of furniture.
Re-upholstering allows you to breathe fresh style and comfort into a beloved chair, sofa, or ottoman that has seen better days. The real value of re-upholstery is that you don't have to compromise on any element of the process, each part of the specification is personal and, unlike when you by something new, we focus is on longevity and comfort, as well as style.
Step 1: Evaluation and Planning
The first step is to send us a message via our contact form to tell us a bit about your project.
For reupholstery, include a description of any structural issues that you know of, such as a wobble to the frame or a broken spring, along with approximate dimensions and initial ideas about fabrics and finishes that you may have.
For bespoke projects where you'd like to work with us to make something new from scratch, we'll need rough dimensions or quantities, along with images or ideas you've been inspired by. We keep a Pinterest board for inspiration, feel free to use this as a reference point to kick off the conversation.
We'll then be in touch with any outstanding questions before creating an estimate. If you're happy to go ahead, it's time to plan your design and either arrange a fabric meeting in our showroom, or we can make recommendations and have samples sent our to your home.
Step 2: Stripping and Preparing
To start the re-upholstery process, the old fabric, padding, and any decorative elements, such as buttons or trims, need to be removed. This involves carefully stripping away the layers while preserving the underlying frame. It's a meticulous task that requires patience and attention to detail. Once the old upholstery is removed, the furniture frame is thoroughly inspected, repaired, and reinforced if necessary. If anything unexpected arises, we'll be in touch to discuss your options and any
Step 3: Foundations
The next step is to assess and replace the foundations which may be foam or traditional fibre. Over time, these components can deteriorate, leading to sagging or discomfort. Replacing them ensures that the piece feels as good as it looks. Depending on the furniture and personal preferences, various densities and thicknesses of foam may be used to achieve the desired level of comfort and support. if it's a traditional piece, areas may need to be re-stitched and stuffed or springs replaced. Padding is added to create a smooth and even surface.
Step 4: Cutting and Sewing
Now comes the exciting part—selecting and cutting the new upholstery fabric. With countless choices available, from luxurious fabrics to durable options, you can unleash your creativity and match the fabric to your desired style and functionality. There are many considerations when selecting your fabric concerning the furniture it's going on. All of which we can talk you through. The fabric is carefully measured, cut, and sewn to fit the furniture's contours precisely.
Step 5: Upholstering
With the fabric ready, it's time to upholster the furniture. This involves stretching and attaching the fabric to the frame, ensuring a snug and wrinkle-free fit. Upholstery tools such as hammers, staples, and glue are utilized to secure the fabric in place. This step requires precision and craftsmanship to create smooth lines and ensure the fabric is taut and free of wrinkles or bunching. Any decorative elements, such as buttons or trims, are added at this stage.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
The re-upholstery process is almost complete, but there are a few final touches to add. Trim or piping can be applied to conceal staple lines or enhance the design. The furniture is inspected for any loose ends, imperfections, or touch-ups needed. Depending on the desired look, the legs or feet of the furniture can be refinished or replaced to complement the new upholstery.
Step 7: Enjoying the Transformation
After weeks of meticulous work, the re-upholstery process is finished, and your furniture is ready to shine once again. Place it in its designated spot and bask in the satisfaction of preserving a cherished piece while infusing it with new life and style. Sit back, relax, and relish in the comfort and beauty of your revitalized furniture.
