Should I be using traditional upholstery materials and methods or more high-tech, modern products for re-upholstery?

This decision is often a case of personal preference and is very much dependent on the piece of furniture being reupholstered.  

Below we look at the pros and cons of both traditional and modern methods of re-upholstery.

Traditional Upholstery – Pros & Cons

If the item in question is an original antique armchair which is a family heirloom, you may wish to restore with traditional methods and materials, ensuring to maintain the authenticity of its construction. However, it is important to keep in mind that the traditional route may not always be the easiest or most cost-effective option. Traditional upholstery techniques are often more labour intensive, the skills more challenging to master and the materials often more difficult to source (as it uses natural materials such as coconut fibre, cotton wadding, hessian and tacks). As a result, restoring antiques can end up being more time-consuming and expensive than if using modern methods. That being said, many customers find a sense of romance in learning the upholstery skills of bygone eras and feel a strong sense of satisfaction upon learning skills that are no longer widely practiced.

 

Modern Upholstery – Pros & Cons

If your aim is to re-upholster furniture relatively quickly and simply, modern upholstery methods may be your best choice. When using modern methods, there are fewer materials to source and they are more readily available. These materials have developed as technology and manufacturing has progressed, which has given way to modern products such as high density foam, heavy duty elastic webbing and electric staple guns. Modern upholstery techniques are less labour intensive and are fairly easy to master with the right tools and advice.

 

Any DIY project is bound to be both challenging but rewarding. So before deciding, we suggest weighing up your priorities; taking into account the age of the piece, if it has sentimental value, your budget, level of skill and time constraints. Ultimately the choice is yours; however whichever way you go, Home Upholsterer has the products and advice to help you complete your DIY upholstery project.

 

For more information on products and prices, visit our Sydney showroom and warhouse or order via our online store for shipping Australia wide.