Having an old or second-hand piece of furniture upholstered can give it a whole new lease of life. It can produce high quality, unique, one of a kind pieces and often at very reasonable prices. It is also a far more sustainable option than throwing out and buying new furniture. Whether you are looking to purchase the right second hand piece, or already have one, this article will tell you everything you need to know about re-upholstering.
- Finding the right piece
Choosing the right piece can be difficult. You have to look past the finish and choose one with a good shape and style. You will need to examine it in person, to ensure the condition is sufficient. Minor issues like scratches on wood can be sanded and stained but if you spot bigger problems like large cracks or warped surfaces, it might be best to avoid.
- Find and get a quote from an upholstery service
The next step involves finding an upholsterer and getting a quote on the price. Upholstering does require help from experts to avoid wasting expensive materials as well as your own time. To get a quotation for your piece, you must measure out the cushions to send to your upholsterer. For more detailed instructions on measuring cushions see this article.
- Choosing the fabric
There are many different fabrics you can choose from that vary in price and will give off very different looks to your furniture. Linen works nicely on sofas in cosy and relaxing areas and can have quite a modern look. It resists fading but may not withstand heavy use so if you are looking for a family sofa, maybe opt for a darker colour. Leather provides a classic, formal look to a room and is likely to last longer but will be more expensive than other fabrics. Cotton is durable and more reasonably priced compared to other fabrics, making it very popular for upholstering. You also need to bear in mind the style of the furniture and the room you’re planning to put it in.
- Consider adding any details
Upholsterers can change more than just the fabric. You can consider adding cord or piping to define lines or a mingled cord or cord with a lip. You can explore channelling or tufting if you want to go for a vintage look, or remove this to modernise your piece.
