If you’re thinking about doing some upholstery yourself, there are some things you need to know. First, you need to understand that upholstery as a profession requires a lot more than just being artsy and fun. Although you may find many people sharing their pictures of completed upholstery jobs on social media, you’ll need to know that upholstery is a full-time job. You’ll have to make some decisions and follow some specific guidelines. If you’re not interested in making upholstery a full-time occupation, you should probably just stick to a hobby. Check out the upholstery shop sydney for the best upholstery.
Fabrics
When choosing fabric for upholstery, there are many different factors to consider. Some of these factors include the durability of the fabric, cleanability, and resistance to soil and fading. To help you choose the perfect fabric for your home, we’ve compiled a cheat sheet that explains the best types of fabric for different rooms.
When choosing upholstery fabrics, you have two options: man-made or natural. You can choose from chenille, a very durable and luxurious fabric, but you should be careful when choosing a pattern. Avoid patterns or designs that are printed or textured as they are likely to wear out quickly under heavy use. You can also use cotton blends for added durability, though this will change the feel. Another option is leather. Leather has several unique properties over other fabrics, which is why many homeowners prefer it for upholstery.
Recovering vs Reupholstering
Reupholstering your furniture can be a great way to add new life to a piece. While it may be more expensive, reupholstering can save you money in the long run by saving the frame, springs, padding, and stuffing. This is a great option for older furniture, which usually has a sturdy wood frame.
Reupholstering requires a professional’s skill and care. While recovering is cheaper, you may end up with a furniture piece with uneven detailing, puffed fabric, or hollow spots. In addition, you might end up with a piece that doesn’t fit together properly. Professional reupholsterers will have special tools and machines that will give your furniture a sleek, streamlined look.
Refinishing
When choosing to refinish upholstery on your own, there are a few key differences between DIY and professional methods. A DIY project involves using tools and supplies. A professional will know how to use a tack remover and the correct technique for fitting fabric around furniture. A professional will also know how to use staples to adhere fabric securely.
DIY upholstery projects may look simple, but if you’re not experienced, you could end up with a disastrous project. Unless you’re confident in your ability to handle a more complex project, it’s best to let a professional do the work. It’s easy to screw up a piece of furniture and end up wasting time and resources. A professional can ensure the best results and prevent you from ruining your furniture.
Eco-friendliness
Eco-friendliness and sustainability are growing concerns for more people than ever, which means more people are choosing environmentally friendly upholstery and DIY methods. Not only do people want to save money, they also want to make their homes and offices look good without compromising the environment. This means choosing upholstery and fabrics that are made from natural fibers and are less energy, water, and carbon-intensive. These materials also do not contain toxic chemicals or dyes.
Upholstery professionals can help you choose the most eco-friendly materials. Several of these materials are certified by third-party organizations, such as the Greenguard organization. These organizations help manufacturers establish guidelines and standards for acceptable products. These organizations also test the products periodically to determine their energy and environmental performance.