Tip of the Day Tuesday/ UPHOLSTERY

We always want something new or that fits in with the latest trend. When it comes to furniture buying new can be expensive! Used furniture that needs a bit of love & care is always within reach of any budget – if you know the secret how to’s. Toronto has a great selection of thrift stores that sell used furniture for great prices. For this week’s Tip of the Day Tuesday, we’ll give you some tips on why upholstery may be a better choice then buying new. Y&CO Carpet & Textiles has generously allowed us to step into their studio for some design inspiration and insider tips!

Upholstery 101

Picking the Right Furniture

Before buying an old furniture piece, you need to look beyond the ugliness and look into the furniture’s structure and design lines. Make sure to look at the bottom of the frame. Check that it’s made from hardwood and kiln-dried. You need to check that it’s strong and sturdy with stable construction.  Don’t forget to TEST the furniture to make sure it doesn’t fell unstable during use!

Choosing Fabric

Choosing fabrics can be a tough choice but you always want something that will withstand time. Check on the back of the fabric swatch for the Weisenbeck rating, an abrasion resistance test. At least 15,000 double rubs for daily heavy wear. Y&CO has amazing textiles to choose that are perfect for upholstery! They have a lot of selection with amazing colours and patterns.

Taking it up a Notch

Here are our tricks for ways to make your furniture really stand out. Little details can go a long way. Here are some ideas to create that WOW-FACTOR:

- Add a contrast piping to define lines.

- Try a mingle cord or a cord with a lip instead of using contrast piping.

- Change the skirt; this technique works great with older furniture pieces.

- Add banding to the bottom of the skirt.

These three simple tips can make a big difference and will rejuvenate any vintage furniture pieces. If reupholstering is too expensive for you then slipcovers can be another option or for the brave ones try DIY upholstery. Be sure to check out Y&Co Carpet & Textiles, they have an amazing selection of indoor or outdoor fabric materials! Find perfect patterns to update your patio furniture from last season.

Here’s a little sneak peak of what they have at their studio!