First up, let’s dispel a myth. Reupholstery doesn’t simply mean removing tired old covers and attaching new ones; that method of reinvention is better described as “recovering.” To fully reupholster furniture is a much bigger task and may mean replacing wayward springs, adding new webbing straps, bettering padding and then recovering with new fabric or indeed leather.
If you’re planning an update, it’s important to consider the provenance of the piece in question. A quality sofa frame is traditionally fashioned from hardwood that has been oven-dried to prevent buckling or warping. Building this frame is where much of the original sofa cost goes.
Frames are further structured, post construction, with springs, webbing and padding. The quality of these items, while “invisible,” is a determining factor for ultimate comfort. Many less expensive sofas have cushions constructed with foam, whereas luxurious models will have fibrefill or feathers.
Our personal preference is foam for the fixed body of the unit; for the cushions (both upper and lower), we like them be foam-centred but wrapped in a layer of feather. The foam provides support while the plume layer is yielding and softening. All sofas and chairs in our
Some advisers suggest the heavier your furniture, the more reason there is to save it. But this is only a rule of thumb. We’ve encountered light yet well manufactured chesterfields; these are often worthy of a second chance.
If the springs are in good condition and the frame is sound, we’d advise photographing it from all angles (including from below) and visiting an upholsterer for a considered appraisal. Better still, bring a reputable upholsterer to your home and discuss pricing.
Always get the quote in writing to ensure that what you expect to pay is indeed your final figure. All too often we’ve heard tell of clients who’ve been hit with extra costs after an upholsterer has returned the piece.
When you’ve ascertained you’d like to revive your squashy pal — rather than buy new — it’s time to choose fabric. Upholstery materials come in a wide range of colours and finishes, but it’s worth remembering that natural and manufactured “mix” fibres tend to be more durable and easier to maintain.
Fabrics chosen should be stain-resistant and soil-repellent, and all parts (including foam) should be flame-retardant. To play safe, discuss these issues with your supplier. For well-being, we’ve included Canadian fire and safety info down below so you can be perfectly informed at all times.