The Art of Crafting Upholstered Furniture That Lasts
Despite the chilly weather and freshly fallen snow at the Nell Hills Upholstery Education Event in January, we had a blast educating our attendees on the intricate art of crafting quality furniture. As a self-professed furniture geek, witnessing the enthusiasm surrounding the sometimes-overwhelming world of upholstery construction and cushion basics from our clients and community was truly inspiring.
At the event, our esteemed designer Dianne and Dan from CR Laine guided attendees through the foundational elements that define quality furniture. From exploring frame materials to unraveling the complexities of 8-way hand-tied and sinuous spring suspension, it was a deep dive into the artistry and craftsmanship that lies at the heart of upholstered pieces.
“In the intricate dance of craftsmanship and design, upholstered furniture becomes a narrative of comfort, quality, and personal style,” I mused, eager to share these insights with you. So, let’s embark on a journey through the endless possibilities for creating lasting pieces that reflect your unique style and preferences.
Constructing a Solid Foundation
More than just an aesthetic decision, frame construction is the critical foundation for every piece of furniture. At Unfinished Furniture, we place a strong emphasis on wood frames as they offer exceptional durability and stability, while still delivering on the New Traditional aesthetic for which we’ve become known.
However, this doesn’t mean that non-wood frames lack quality. In fact, a trend we’re seeing and loving is metal-accented pieces in decor. But we understand that every customer has unique preferences and requirements, which is why we offer customizable options when it comes to frame construction.
“Whether you prefer a classic wood frame or a modern alternative, we have options to suit your needs,” I assure, “because at the end of the day, it’s all about creating furniture that stands the test of time.”
One key consideration in frame construction is the choice between 8-way hand-tied and sinuous spring suspension. Both options can result in quality furniture, but they can impact the comfort and price point differently. When talking about hand-crafted quality furniture, sinuous springs are typically used when space constraints prevent the use of 8-way hand-tied construction.
While 8-way hand-tied construction is more labor-intensive and thus reflected in the price, it offers the assurance of a real person handcrafting your furniture. “We’re elated that most of our upholstered furniture is handmade in the US, ensuring the highest quality craftsmanship and attention to detail in every piece,” I share with a smile.
Tailoring the Comfort Experience
When it comes to cushion construction, furniture companies offer a diverse range of options to suit various preferences and lifestyles. The seat cushion is a crucial element in determining the overall comfort and feel of upholstered furniture.
At CR Laine, the seat generally begins with a high-resiliency foam core, meaning the cushion bounces back and recovers quickly when the user gets out of the piece, providing a sturdy foundation. From there, different wraps are added to tailor the cushion’s feel.
For those who prefer a softer seating experience, the Mayfair cushion is a popular choice, featuring a foam core double-wrapped in polyester fiber and encased in a down-proof ticking. Over time, this cushion develops comfort wrinkles, adding to its plush feel.
Alternatively, the Hallmark cushion offers a firmer feel with less pronounced wrinkles, making it ideal for those seeking a more tailored look. With a foam core wrapped in polyester fiber and encased in fabric ticking, the Hallmark cushion offers good recovery and durability.
“As the largest CR Laine dealer in the US, Nell Hills is proud to offer many of these upgrades at no additional cost, providing customers with exceptional value and comfort,” I share, “because at the end of the day, it’s all about creating a space that feels like a true sanctuary.”
Choosing Fabrics That Stand the Test of Time
When it comes to building upholstered pieces that are built to last, your fabric selection plays a pivotal role. At Unfinished Furniture, we understand the importance of choosing fabrics that not only complement your style but also stand the test of time.
During our recent upholstery education event, we had many inquiries about leather upholstery. Leather, particularly aniline-dyed top-grade options from reputable brands, offers exceptional durability and can last three to four times longer than cloth upholstery. Additionally, leather upholstery is relatively easy to maintain with regular cleaning and conditioning to preserve its supple texture and rich color.
“Understanding upholstery material fibers, treatments, and cleaning codes are crucial for maintaining the longevity of your upholstered furniture,” I explain. “Our knowledgeable team can guide you through the options available, ensuring that you choose the right fabric for your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.”
We offer a diverse range of fabric options from our upholstery vendors, including performance fabrics known for their durability and stain resistance. However, our commitment to customization doesn’t end there. We also provide the option for upholstery in our exclusive Unfinished Furniture fabric, allowing you to create upholstered pieces that reflect your unique style and preferences.
Elevating the Everyday with Custom Details
While frames and cushions are exciting to learn about (at least to me and fellow furniture nerds), the customization options might just be THE most exciting thing of all. These details give furniture pieces that custom designer look and turn a functional piece of furniture into a work of art.
On pillows, we call them “dressmaker details” – pleats, folds, cording, flat flanges, and anything that adds a dash of visual interest and flair. These little details, like welt tape, trim, nail heads, and even the topstitching used, add character and sophistication to your piece, making it truly one of a kind.
“One notable feature of our hand-crafted furniture is the individual placement of nail heads, as opposed to using a strip of nails like you might find in some alternatives,” I explain with enthusiasm. “This meticulous attention to detail ensures that each nail head is precisely placed, contributing to the overall durability and craftsmanship of the furniture.”
With our extensive range of customization options and the meticulous craftsmanship of our furniture partners, you can trust that your upholstered pieces from Unfinished Furniture will not only be a beautiful addition to your home but also a lasting investment in quality and style.
Crafting a Legacy of Comfort and Creativity
In the intricate dance of craftsmanship and design, upholstered furniture becomes a narrative of comfort, quality, and personal style. We revel in the art of creating pieces that stand the test of time, reflecting both the expertise of the artisans that made them and the unique stories of those who bring these furnishings into their homes.
As you embark on the journey of selecting or customizing your upholstered treasures, remember that it’s not just about the form and function – it’s about the legacy they hold. May your choices at Unfinished Furniture bring enduring joy and comfort, weaving a tapestry of memories within the fabric of your life.
“We’re so grateful to get to take the journey with you,” I say, “because at the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about – creating a space that truly feels like a reflection of who you are.”
So, why wait? Start designing your dream piece today and discover the joy of Unfinished Furniture. The possibilities are endless, and the comfort is unparalleled.
