HOW TO

Find & Work With An Upholsterer

You've chosen fabric for a dream upholstery project, but finding a professional to bring it to life feels overwhelming. Don't give up! We'll guide you through locating reputable upholsterers, navigating COM (Customer's Own Material), and communicating your vision effectively. Your beautifully transformed furniture is just steps away!

How to Find a Pro

Browse upholstery shop profiles, look at past projects & check out customer reviews

Reach out to professionals to get the ball rolling

Request & compare quotes, then hire the upholsterer that fits your project & budget

Step One: Search for Local Upholsterers

Chances are, you’ve never had to find an upholsterer before.. Thankfully, the Internet offers several great starting points for your search. Here are four effective ways to begin finding a professional:

Angi

Search local upholsterers by zip code or complete a short questionnaire about your project to have local shops send you quotes. Angi provides customer reviews and contact details for individual upholsterers.

Houzz

Browse local upholsterer profiles on Houzz by zip code or submit details about your project to request upholsterers contact you with quotes. Upholsterer profiles feature reviews, images of completed work, credentials, and contact details.

National Upholstery Association

The National Upholstery Association is an organization that works to support and advance the field of professional upholstery. You can filter search results based on state and service. From there, click on listings for contact information.

... and don't forget word of mouth!

Share your project idea with friends and family. You never know – someone might have recently worked with an upholsterer and could offer you a valuable recommendation. Home improvement centers may have connections with skilled tradespeople in your area. Local antique dealers may frequently work with or know reputable upholsterers and can provide valuable referrals. Sometimes, the best connections and resources come from unexpected places!

Step Two: Contact Upholsterers

After researching upholstery shops with positive reviews and examples of their craftsmanship, it's time to contact them to discuss your project and request quotes. Reach out via phone or email to discuss your upholstery project and determine if they're the right fit.

Gather the Details!

Before contacting upholsterers, gather essential information about your project. If you've chosen fabric, note its width, whether it's railroaded and its pattern repeat measurements. Find the fabric information at the bottom of each product page & on the reverse side of the snips you order!

Know the basic dimensions (height, width, depth) of the furniture you want to get reupholstered and have clear photos ready. Include any details about the furniture's condition or your specific requirements. This preparation helps upholsterers provide accurate labor quotes and fabric yardage estimates. Don't worry if you're unsure about some measurements; professionals will guide you through the process as needed.

Customer’s Own Material (COM)

Using your own fabric for upholstery projects is a common practice that many professionals readily accommodate. When contacting an upholsterer, simply ask if they accept Customer’s Own Material (COM) and inquire about any associated policies or fees. Most upholsterers are experienced in working with customer-provided fabrics and will guide you through the process. They can advise on suitability and any specific requirements. While some may charge a per yard or flat fee for COM, many don't, making it a viable option for personalizing your project! Don't hesitate to discuss COM with potential upholsterers; you'll likely find that it's a straightforward and accepted practice in the industry.

Tip: Folio Fabrics can ship directly to your upholsterer. Our fabrics are always continuous yardage and are always rolled on tubes, never folded.

Step Three: Compare Quotes Contact & Choose Your Upholsterer

As quotes come in, compare them carefully. Don't just look at the bottom line; consider what each upholsterer is offering in terms of services, materials, and turnaround time. Remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best value. Look for a balance between cost, quality, and experience.

When choosing an upholsterer, consider factors beyond price:

- Their communication style and responsiveness
- Their portfolio and experience with similar projects
- Their estimated timeline for completion
- Any guarantees or warranties they offer

Once you've made your decision, contact the chosen upholsterer to discuss next steps. During the waiting period, don't hesitate to call and check on your project's progress. A reputable upholsterer will welcome your interest and keep you informed throughout the process!

Celebrate Your Success

Transforming your home with fabric is within reach, even if you're not an upholsterer or lack sewing skills. By following these three simple steps, you can revitalize your living spaces and create a fresh, personalized look. Whether you're updating a single piece of furniture or revamping an entire room, this process allows you to express your creativity and style without extensive training or expertise.