Is it worth it?

Is it worth reupholstering and repairing your chair?

I often have this discussion with prospective customers so I thought it would be a good topic for this blog post.

Things to consider.....

Does the chair have a decent good quality frame? Is it solid nice wood? Is the frame heavy? If it’s lasted for 10 years already it will probably last a good few years to come.

Usually if the chair was originally upholstered using traditional techniques (stitching, tacks instead of staples etc. and materials (fibre, hair, hessian, calico etc. ) this is also a sign of craftsmanship. Some stuffing, such as horse hair from the last century is still worth keeping. Unlike foam which has a limited lifespan.

Does it have sentimental value? Is it something you’ve inherited and want to keep in the family?

Is it potentially a collectors item for the future and has some design merit? Trends change. For example lots of Ercol, G plan, utility and Parker knoll has been dumped over the years and is now having a revival.

Do you really want to add to landfill? Is there a more ethical sustainable choice? Are you a make do and mend kind of person?

Do you want something completely bespoke? Rather than something from the high street? A particular fabric, pattern, colour? Would you like to change the stuffing so it’s firmer/softer ?

Reupholstering a piece of furniture won’t necessarily be cheap, but it may be good value, if you have considered the choices above.

I’m always happy to advise customers and talk through options. Feel free to message, email or arrange a visit.