Module 5
5 Simple Upholstery Projects to Master
Getting started with upholstery is a bit like being a beginner in any other skill or hobby. Yes, you need enthusiasm and a desire to learn, but you also need patience to start simple and gradually build your knowledge so you can tackle more complex projects. Imagine taking up running – you wouldn’t expect to complete a marathon straight away. Same thing with upholstery. If you choose an achievable transformation, you’re far more likely to grow in confidence, get familiar with the basics and build up to something like a sofa, or a precious antique chair when you’re far more capable. Here are my top 5 suggestions to kick things off…
Chair with drop-in seat pad
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Possibly THE easiest project to begin with and also THE most simple item to come across. Most people will already have a chair suitable for reupholstery, but if not, you’re bound to find one cheaply online or at a charity shop.
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The reason I recommend this for starters is because you are going to learn the fundamental skills you need as an upholsterer here. Namely, stripping back followed by creating the right tension and a precise finish with your top fabric. You won’t need to worry yourself yet with anything else too technical, although it could also be a good intro to bringing out the best in wood colour and grain. Bonus is that you’ll only need minimal tools and you’ll see a big transformation with a great fabric and a little repair work.
Piano Stool
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Practical and multi-purpose, a piano stool is a great introductory upholstery project if you’re lucky enough to own or come across one. They may not be as popular as they once were, but providing extra seating when you need it, plus a place for secret storage, it really is a functional thing to have around the house.
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Depending on its condition, you may need to replace hinges, which is a good lesson in basic woodwork and repair. Knowing when things need fixing or adjusting is all part of the skill of upholstery. Adding detail, like a hidden fabric on the inside of the lid or a flash of colour with paint can make something simple seem extraordinary.
Dressing table stool
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I can’t stress enough how much you need to start SMALL. Especially if you’re picking a project to take along to a course or class. Most people underestimate the time things will take. A pretty little stool, like this one, is ideal.
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Upholstery is full of surprises! Especially when you’re working with an older piece. Something on this scale will give you the opportunity to trouble shoot unexpected complications and still stand a chance of completing the project successfully.
Telephone table
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A telephone table or even a small bench seat is a good project for transformation. The upholstery skills you’ll need will be basic, but the results can be dramatic.
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A removable, upholstered seat on any kind of furniture will give you ample chance to practice your fundamental skills. Because you’re working with a rectangular shape, it means you don’t have to be an expert at navigating curves and corners… Yet!
Ottoman
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I love the versatility and potential you get with an Ottoman. Whether it’s a place to store household bits and pieces or somewhere to rest your legs, it’s also a great beginner’s upholstery project to get stuck into.
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No legs, backs or arms to worry about – just the art of a perfectly covered top to master on most Ottomans. If you fancy having a go yourself, you’ll find my 10-steps to upholstering an Ottoman as part of this Virtual Vintique Guide. Good luck and enjoy!
Bonus Content – My Home Tour
