The Reupholstery Process

By Paul · Timeless Upholstery · Updated March 2026

First time getting something reupholstered? Here's exactly what happens — no mystery, no surprises on collection day.

Step 1: Assessment

Bring the piece to 213B Sunnynook Road, or send detailed photos if it's too large to transport easily. I check the frame first — joints, legs, structural integrity. Wobbly frames get flagged before we talk fabric. No point recovering a chair that's falling apart underneath.

Step 2: Fabric Selection

We discuss how the piece is used, who sits on it, and what look you're going for. I recommend fabrics based on rub count and environment — a dining chair needs different material than a fireside armchair. You can supply your own fabric or choose from my recommendations. Read our fabric guide before your visit if you want a head start.

Step 3: Strip and Repair

Old fabric comes off. Underneath, I assess padding, webbing and springs. Compressed foam gets replaced. Sagging webbing gets re-stretched. Springs get re-tied if they've shifted. This is the unglamorous part that separates a job that lasts five years from one that lasts twenty.

Step 4: Reupholster

New fabric goes on with proper tension — tight enough to look crisp, not so tight it distorts the pattern. Stripes and checks get matched across seams. Arms, backs and seats on armchairs each need separate attention.

Step 5: Inspection and Collection

Every seam, corner and edge gets checked. You collect from the workshop, or we arrange delivery for larger pieces. Timeline depends on queue and project size — typically one to two weeks for residential work.

Ready to start? Contact us or read when to reupholster vs replace.