DESIGN RESOURCE
UPHOLSTERY GUIDE
Reimagine your favorite vintage pieces by upholstering them in our signature collection of fabrics. To help with the process, here is a guide of some of our tips to help get your project started.
Reimagine your favorite vintage pieces by upholstering them in our signature collection of fabrics. To help with the process, here is a guide of some of our tips to help get your project started.
For more complex projects, such as reupholstering furniture, we recommend consulting a professional workroom or upholsterer.
HOW TO FIND A REPUTABLE UPHOLSTERER
- If you’re working with an interior designer, they will almost always have a local workroom they like to use.
- Ask your upholsterer to see a few in-progress pieces or a portfolio to give you a feel for their level of work. This will help you determine if they are right for your specific project! For example, if you’re recovering a vintage piece, you’ll want an upholsterer that has experience with antique furniture.
- Confirm warranty details with your upholsterer. Most offer a warranty so it’s worth discussing your coverage. If a pro doesn't stand behind their work, it's a sign to keep looking.
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR UPHOLSTERER
- How much fabric will be needed?
- Will there be any additional costs due to the nature of the furniture? For example: replacing cushions, repairing the frame, replacing springs, etc.
- What are the pickup and delivery fees?
- What material (down, foam, or combination) do you recommend for the cushions?
- Will you use a padding fabric on the back and sides of the furniture?
- Do I need any specific information on my fabric shipment, such as a sidemark or reference number?
INFORMATION TO GIVE YOUR UPHOLSTERER
- How the pattern should be placed on the piece/which direction the pattern should run. If you have a specific way you want the pattern to be laid out, providing a drawing can be helpful.
- Specify if you want the pattern repeat to be lined up at the seams. This may not be possible with every project so it’s good to discuss this with your upholsterer ahead of time.
- What material you would like for the cushion, such as down, foam, or combination of materials.
- What you want the finish to look like for the arms, skirts, cording, etc. Come prepared with pictures and drawings to explain your ideas.
- Fabric specs, such as width, pattern repeat, and fabric content.
RESOURCES
- SBI Fine Fabric Finishing
- Chairloom
- Stitchroom