Whether you’re reviving a family heirloom, updating a well-loved sofa, or sourcing bespoke seating for an interior design project, professional upholstery services can completely transform the feel, comfort, and function of a space. This guide covers everything homeowners and designers need to know—from choosing the right fabric to understanding restoration techniques and knowing when it’s time to reupholster or replace.

Why Professional Reupholstery Services Matter

Upholstery is more than a decorative finishing touch—it’s a cornerstone of comfort, quality, and design integrity. A well-upholstered piece enhances the function and feel of your space while showcasing craftsmanship that goes far beyond what you’ll find in mass-produced furniture. Whether it’s a custom-made armchair or a treasured vintage sofa, professional upholstery ensures the piece suits your lifestyle and stands up to daily use.

Reupholstering allows you to maintain valuable or sentimental furniture that still has a strong frame and beautiful lines, while refreshing its look to align with modern interiors. Unlike cheap replacements, custom upholstery gives you control over fabric choice, padding firmness, and fine details—ensuring durability and personal style.

From a sustainability point of view, reupholstering is a responsible alternative to landfill. It extends the life of well-made furniture, supports local craftspeople, and gives you the opportunity to choose environmentally conscious materials and methods.

In essence, great upholstery offers a perfect blend of beauty, comfort, and longevity—making it a smart investment for homeowners and designers alike.

Inside the Upholstery Process

Professional upholstery is a detailed, hands-on craft that transforms tired furniture into beautiful, functional pieces tailored to your taste and lifestyle. It’s far more involved than simply re-covering cushions—each stage plays a vital role in ensuring quality and longevity.

1. Assessment – The process begins with a thorough inspection. Upholsterers assess the frame’s integrity, check for woodworm or loose joints, examine existing padding, and identify any areas that need structural reinforcement.
2. Stripping – All old materials are carefully removed, including fabric, tacks, staples, webbing, padding, and sometimes even broken springs. This exposes the bare frame for a fresh start.
3. Frame Repair – The frame is the foundation. Any damage or weakness—such as cracked timber or unstable joints—is repaired or reinforced using hardwood supports, dowels, or specialised adhesives.
4. Spring and Webbing Replacement – Springs are retied or replaced based on the original design, whether it’s zig-zag, coil, or hand-tied. New jute or elastic webbing is added for base support.
5. New Foam and Padding – High-density foam, feather wraps, Dacron, and wadding are cut and layered to create lasting comfort and correct seat height and firmness.
6. Fabric Cutting and Stitching – The selected fabric is measured and cut precisely. Seams are sewn for strength and neatness, often using techniques such as piping or topstitching.
7. Upholstery – Each panel is expertly stretched and tacked into place using hand tools. Upholsterers work carefully to align patterns and achieve a smooth, tailored finish.
8. Finishing Touches – Details like decorative studs, contrast piping, pleats, tufting, or skirts complete the transformation. These elements transform the final look and give your piece personality and character.

Fabric Choices: What to Consider

Choosing the right fabric is one of the most important decisions in upholstery. Your choice will impact the furniture’s durability, appearance, and ease of care.

1. Natural Fabrics

• Cotton – Breathable and soft, but prone to staining and fading.
• Linen – Luxurious with a crisp feel; best for low-traffic areas.
• Wool – Warm and naturally stain-resistant, often blended for strength.
• Leather – Timeless, durable, and easy to clean, but more expensive.

2. Synthetic Fabrics

• Polyester – Strong and fade-resistant, often blended with natural fibres.
• Acrylic – Mimics wool; soft, resilient, and good for sunlight resistance.
• Nylon – Extremely durable and often blended for toughness.
• Microfibre – Very soft and highly stain-resistant; ideal for families and pets.

3. Performance Fabrics

These fabrics are engineered for high durability, stain resistance, and water repellence. Brands like Sunbrella, Crypton, and Warwick Halo fabrics are ideal for both residential and commercial use.

4. Velvets, Jacquards & Textured Fabrics

For a touch of drama and luxury, velvets and rich textures like chenille or jacquard can add visual depth and softness. These are great for accent chairs or formal living spaces.

Things to Consider:

• Martindale rub count for durability
• UV resistance for sun-exposed spaces
• Colour fastness
• Ease of spot cleaning or professional cleaning requirements

Spring Systems: What’s Inside Matters

The type and condition of the internal spring system affects how your furniture feels and performs.

• No-sag (zig-zag) springs – Common in modern sofas; supportive and cost-effective.
• Eight-way hand-tied springs – A hallmark of quality craftsmanship. Labour-intensive but offers supreme comfort and even support.
• Coil springs – Often found in antique or high-end furniture; can be retied or replaced during restoration.

Signs your springs need attention:

• Sagging seats
• Creaking sounds
• Uneven support

Foam and Cushioning: Comfort Is Key

Foam, padding, and filling materials determine the comfort and shape of your upholstered piece. Modern upholstery uses high-density polyurethane foam layered with batting for softness.

• High-density foam – Provides firm support and lasts longer.
• Memory foam or latex – Adds comfort and contouring.
• Feather/down wrap – Offers a luxurious, sink-in feel (but requires regular fluffing).
• Dacron or polyester batting – Smooths out the shape and softens corners.

If your cushions feel lumpy, thin, or uncomfortable, it might be time to replace the foam.

Upholstery Style Trends: Classic vs Contemporary

Interior styles constantly evolve, but some trends have staying power.

Popular looks:

• Mid-Century Modern – Clean lines, tapered legs, simple forms.
• Contemporary Luxe – Velvet or boucle textures, curved forms, soft neutrals.
• Scandi – Light wood frames, minimalist style, durable natural fabrics.
• Heritage/Traditional – Rolled arms, floral prints, classic trims like piping or studs.

Considerations for choosing a style:

• Match the style to the home’s architecture and interior theme.
• Choose timeless fabric colours if you plan to keep the piece long term.
• Mix a classic frame with a modern fabric for an updated look.

When to Upholster vs. Replace

Reupholstering isn’t always the right solution. Here are some tips to help you decide:

Choose to Reupholster If:

• The frame is solid hardwood or antique.
• The piece has sentimental value.
• The furniture fits your space perfectly.
• You want a custom look with high-end fabrics.
• You’re committed to sustainability.

Consider Replacing If:

• The frame is particleboard or MDF.
• The piece is mass-produced and cheaply made.
• It would cost more to repair than replace.
• You’re unhappy with the shape or size.

Upholstery is an investment. But when done right, it often results in a better-quality piece than buying new.

Custom Upholstery for Designers and Homeowners

Whether you’re an interior designer managing a project or a homeowner refreshing your space, custom upholstery services offer flexibility, creativity, and superior quality.

What You Can Customise:

• Frame shape and dimensions (if creating from scratch)
• Fabric and trim
• Cushion style (box, knife edge, T-cushion)
• Leg style and finish
• Stitching and detailing

Working with a professional upholsterer means getting guidance on what works functionally and aesthetically. You’ll also be able to ensure trade-grade craftsmanship, fire compliance, and fabric performance for high-use settings.

Upholstery Maintenance Tips

Keeping your newly upholstered furniture in great shape doesn’t require a lot—just consistent care and attention to detail. Upholstery fabrics are durable, but they still benefit from routine cleaning and proper use.

• Start by using an upholstery brush attachment to gently vacuum all fabric surfaces at least once a week. This helps remove dust, dirt, crumbs, and pet hair that can wear down fabric fibres over time and dull the look of the material.
• Flip and rotate cushions monthly to maintain even compression, avoid shape distortion, and extend their lifespan. This is especially important for seats used daily.
• Avoid placing furniture in direct sunlight or close to heaters, as UV rays and heat can fade, discolour, or weaken fabrics. If your furniture is near a window, consider sheer curtains or UV-protective films.
• Pre-treated performance fabrics offer excellent stain resistance, but you can also apply a fabric protection spray as an extra barrier against spills and water marks. Always patch test first.
• For accidental spills, blot (never rub) immediately using a clean cloth and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Use gentle upholstery cleaners or seek professional help for set-in stains or delicate fabrics.

Taking these simple steps not only preserves your furniture’s appearance but also helps maintain the comfort and investment value of each piece for years to come.

From Worn to Wonderful: The Last Word on Upholstery Services

Great upholstery is about more than fabric. It’s about reviving comfort, quality, and style in a way that reflects how you live. Here’s a quick recap:

• Choose fabric based on lifestyle, durability, and care needs
• Consider reupholstering if the frame is solid and well-made
• Pay attention to foam quality and spring systems for lasting comfort
• Take inspiration from current trends, but personalise your style
• Work with professionals to achieve the best result

Upholstery gives you the chance to keep what you love, reduce waste, and enjoy something truly bespoke. Whether you’re renovating a single armchair or coordinating an entire fit-out, it’s an investment in beauty, comfort, and craftsmanship.Need advice on an upcoming project or want help choosing the right fabric? Reach out to your local upholstery specialist to explore what’s possible.