7 Questions
to ask before starting a
Reupholstery Project
Before delving into the search for the perfect fabric for your next reupholstery project, start with answering a few crucial questions.
Articulate the rationale for reupholstering the furniture. Environmental considerations? Sentimental attachment? Furniture provenance? Perfect scale? Whatever the reason, understanding the “why” grounds budget and design decisions.
Starting with the labor / delivery cost and estimated yardage of an upholstery project can help you give budget guidance on fabric selection from the outset of the search.
Determine when will this furniture be used. Daily? Special occasions? Look-don’t-touch? Different use scenarios will dictate different fabric requirements, from durability to stain resistance.
Identify who will use this furniture. Kids or teens? Pets with claws or dirty feet? Coffee drinkers? Red wine lovers? Knowing the potential users will help you select fabrics that align with their needs and lifestyle.
Pinpoint where the furniture will live in the home. Will the furniture sit in direct sunlight in/outdoors? In or near a high-moisture environment like a kitchen or bathroom? In a high traffic zone of the house?
Identify the primary purpose of the reupholstered furniture. Is it meant to be purely functional, make a bold statement, harmoniously blend? The purpose will guide you towards fabrics that match the desired aesthetics and functionality.
When it comes to reupholstery, size matters! Know the overall dimensions as well as the individual dimensions (e.g. back height or seat depth), particularly if searching for pattern fabrics.
By answering these key questions before starting a reupholstery project, you will not only make your search for the perfect fabric more focused and efficient but also ensure the one-of-a-kind piece you design for your client meets both their aesthetic AND lifestyle needs.
With answers to the who-what-why-when in hand, your favorite fabric vendors and our Project Specialists can easily assist you in finding the perfect fabric for your next reupholstery project.