How do you reupholster and restore furniture?

A house is just an empty set of rooms, until you add the furniture. Your furniture transforms your space, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. But, if your old chair that’s faded and worn or the dented sideboard doesn’t quite fit this description, it’s probably time to repair and restore it. Not all changes need to be vast, a new look can easily be achieved by simply reupholstering, repairing, or restoring, all of which come with a wide range of benefits. We put together some top tips to bear in mind when looking to repair and restore your furniture.

Speak to an expert

Whilst there are some elements of re-upholstery or furniture repair that can definitely be a DIY job, there are many that are better left to the expert. If you have a particular piece that you are extremely fond of, or an antique of high value, it’s best to take it to an expert in order to protect the value, whether that is sentimental or monetary. If you are undertaking the repair as a personal project, on an item you are less concerned about, getting an expert opinion before starting can still help to guide your project smoothly.

Plan ahead

The first and most important task to undertake when looking to restore furniture is to plan ahead. Deciding how you want to transform your furniture is the first step. Researching the right materials is key in completing the project well, for example, thin cotton is not ideal for the chair that sees daily use. You may also need to think about padding and support if reupholstering a chair, and varnishes or paint if repairing a table. This also goes for any specific equipment you will need, which, dependent on their use, may be harder to find than you intended.

Be logical

Once you have gathered your supplies, the next step is to start. It is always key to start carefully; tearing the fabric off your sofa in any which way may hinder more than help. When you begin to repair, make sure to work methodically. Deconstruct the item in a way that allows you to separate any loose parts, such as screws or dowels. Make sure to keep everything clearly labelled. A good tip is to take photos of the item throughout the process so you can easily look back and see how it was originally constructed.

Be careful

It’s important to be careful when repairing, restoring, or reupholstering furniture. There are many harsh chemicals found in wood strippers and varnishes, and it is easy to accidentally see a splinter of wood fly away. Always wear safety goggles when taking items apart, and wear a mask in a well-ventilated room if dealing with varnishes.

Making these repairs is a great way to be creative. Taking small steps to give a little bit of care to your piece of furniture can go a long way in creating a beloved piece fit for centre stage in your home. At John Reed and Son, we have a whole host of experience reupholstering, repairing, and restoring furniture. Using traditional techniques, our team of master craftsmen are adept at handling the most difficult items. For more information on our services, get in touch on 01536 510584, or email us at enquiries@johnreedandson.com. Alternatively, you can fill our online enquiry form.