Traditional Upholstery
Traditional upholstery is the craft of using traditional fillings, such as horse hair and coir fibre, with traditional techniques, such as roll edges, to create upholstered furniture. All upholstered furniture prior to the invention of foam (1950’s) was upholstered this way. In general traditionally upholstered pieces last longer than modern (with foam) upholstered pieces. Partly because frames were better made in the past and partly be the upholstery itself, done well, has great longevity. This is why some furniture from the Victorian and earlier periods still exists but the sofa you bought twenty years ago does not. It’s a beautiful craft, taking skill, training and time to do properly. I love traditional upholstery, it feels like sculpture and history all at the same time.
I have experience training dealing with traditionally upholstered pieces. I can reupholster from frame up with traditional techniques. In some cases it is possible to reuse some parts of the original upholstery. If it is warranted for the piece. With something of significant age it can be beneficial to retain as many original features as possible. This not only helps it maintain any financial value but also some of its authenticity. It’s incredibly important to treat these older pieces, that may have been reupholstered numerous times, with the love and respect they deserve with bespoke upholstery. I can also do any necessary repairs to the frame, using techniques from that period to keep the piece authentic and strong for years to come. I have also been experimenting with using traditional upholstery on modern techniques in my search for more sustainable and chemical free upholstery option.