Selecting and Working with a Good Upholsterer!

Re-upholstering costs are my highest single expense.  I have had over 700 pieces professionally re-upholstered over the past 10+ years (at least a dozen of my own furniture) and have some suggestions about what to look for in good upholstery work - I will discuss expected prices in a separate blog:

• Choose a reputable upholsterer based on observed work (visit the shop at different times) and references
• Ask about pickup and delivery options including any additional costs for the service
• Ensure that no one is smoking in the shop - the odor will linger in your fabrics
• Check for pattern placement and matching - if there is more than one option for pattern placement, discuss with upholsterer in advance (e.g. direction and correct side of fabric)
• If a new seat cushion is needed, the upholsterer will generally provide foam - ask that it be "softened" by wrapping in Dacron or similar sheeting (this trick can also be used to add heft to a too-flat pillow)
• Ask about single or double-cording and consider whether contrasting piping might add to the piece
• Ensure that 8-way hand-tied coil springs are checked and retied if necessary (may even need to be replaced) 
• Ensure that dirty, smelly, or inadequate fillers are replaced and/or enhanced
• If you are redoing woodwork, have it done after removing old fabric and before recovering chair (many upholsterers either directly provide that service or can have it done for you)
• Clean woodwork including eliminating any oils before having redone - oils can get on the fabrics (see my blog about refurbishing wood - use GOOF OFF or similar cleaner)
• Get all pricing up front including any contingencies (e.g, don't know how much filler - added work required once old fabric is removed) - this should not happen often and only for the most complex and/or "destroyed" pieces
• When picking up (or having delivered) completed piece,  check carefully before paying - reject for re-work if not satisfied
• Buy and bring your own fabrics (make sure the quality is worth the expense) - most upholsterers can order for you but it will cost more

GOOD LUCK!

Pattern Matching



Pattern Matching and Placement 

Pattern Matching

I use Song's Upholstery of Norcross, GA almost exclusively and highly recommend them for their prompt and professional work!