Upholstery

New England easy chair

George Jacob Hunzinger, American, born Germany, 1835-1898. Armchair, designed 1869 patented March 30, 1869. Wood, original upholstery

upholsterychair

Ferrari 360 Spider F1 - Flickr - The Car Spy (18)

Riva junior

Upholstery refers to the materials used to make soft coverings for furniture, particularly seats and armchairs. These materials include fabric, padding, webbing, and springs. Upholstery work involves the provision of furniture with padding, springs, webbing, and fabric or leather covers. The term is also applicable to domestic furniture and can extend to automobiles, boats, and airplanes. The practice of upholstery dates back to the Middle Ages and has evolved significantly over the centuries, reflecting changes in fashion, technology, and materials.

History

The craft of upholstery has its origins in the Middle Ages, when it was primarily used to create luxurious furnishings for the wealthy. Early upholstery techniques were rudimentary, often involving the use of animal hair, grass, and feathers for padding. Over time, the craft evolved, with the 18th century marking a significant period of innovation. This era saw the introduction of more sophisticated spring systems and the widespread use of new materials like velvet and silk.

Materials

The choice of materials in upholstery is critical and varies depending on the application, durability, and aesthetic requirements. Common materials include:

• Fabric: A wide range of fabrics is used in upholstery, from natural fibers like cotton and linen to synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. Each material offers different textures, patterns, and durability levels.
• Leather: Known for its durability and ease of maintenance, leather is a popular choice for both traditional and modern furniture.
• Padding: Various forms of padding are used to provide comfort and shape to upholstered furniture. Common padding materials include foam, down, and batting.
• Springs: Springs are used to give support to the seat. The most common types include coil springs and zigzag springs.
• Webbing: Webbing provides support for the padding and springs. It is typically made from jute, nylon, or polypropylene.

Techniques

Upholstery techniques vary widely and can range from traditional handcrafting methods to modern mechanized processes. Key techniques include:

• Hand stitching: Used for fine detailing and securing the upholstery fabric in place.
• Stapling: A common modern technique for attaching fabric to the furniture frame.
• Tufting: A decorative technique that involves threading through layers of fabric and padding to create patterns or buttons on the surface of the upholstery.

Upholstery in Automobiles, Boats, and Aircraft

Upholstery is not limited to home furniture; it is also an essential aspect of automobile, boat, and aircraft interiors. The materials and techniques used in these applications must meet specific durability and safety standards, often requiring specialized knowledge and skills.

DIY Upholstery

With the rise of the DIY movement, many individuals have taken up upholstery as a hobby or a way to personalize and restore furniture. While DIY upholstery can be rewarding, it requires a good understanding of materials, tools, and techniques.

Environmental Considerations

The upholstery industry faces challenges related to sustainability and environmental impact. Efforts are being made to use more sustainable materials and reduce waste in upholstery processes.

See Also

• Furniture restoration
• Interior design
• Textile