Mar 1, 20222 min read

Give your old furniture some new skin!

Updated: Jul 1

Supply chain problems began to emerge with the start of the global pandemic in 2020. Lead times for custom furniture, which used to be a maximum of 10-12 weeks, have now extended to 18-24 weeks, if you're fortunate enough. If you come across a sofa online that fits your criteria in terms of size, color, style, and price and is ready to ship immediately, don't hesitate to act quickly. Being proactive is key, as your neighbor might grab it before you do!

I consider myself to be quite resourceful, particularly in the realm of the internet. Google is like an old friend to me. However, recently, another method has proven to be invaluable as I assist my customers during these challenging times. And what might that be, you wonder? The reliable practice of reupholstering.

Many of us have either experienced reupholstering ourselves or are familiar with someone who has undergone the process. The important factors to consider include whether the furniture piece holds significant value, sentimental meaning, or is an heirloom. If any of these conditions apply, reupholstering may be worth considering.

Reupholstering furniture can be quite costly. Typically, the labor cost for a sofa is around $1200 and for a chair about $550, in addition to the fabric cost, which ranges from $30 to over $100 per yard. However, the results are truly remarkable! You have the opportunity to personalize your beloved furniture with different fabrics and embellishments. You can even include pillows or bolsters! Within an average timeframe of 2-3 weeks, all of this can occur instead of the prolonged 24+ weeks during the pandemic.

I'd like to introduce you to my longtime upholstery craftsman, Lester Brathwaite.

Arriving in the US from Guyana in his mid-twenties, Lester had acquired the skills of furniture frame building and cabinet making from his uncle back in his home country.

Having more than 40 years of experience as an upholsterer, Lester is a skilled craftsman. His impressive career has involved providing services for Presidents Nixon, H.W. Bush, Clinton, and V.P Quayle, with his work showcased in The White House, Blair House, and Camp David.

His meticulous attention to detail and ‘old school’ sensibilities are quite evident with the many satisfied customers he’s had through the years.

Check out Lester restoring an heirloom chair using old-school materials, burlap and hay!