Upholstery handbook COVER STORY

FROM SOFAS TO BEDHEADS, HERE'S ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE - AND MORE FOR GOOD MEASURE

-  CHRIS PEARSON

Upholstered furniture, especially sofas, can be the most expensive decision you have to make when it comes to furnishing your home. And as those sofas and bedheads, in particular, take a starring role in a room, choose with care, as mistakes can be costly.

Your decision should not just be ruled by what immediately takes your fancy. Other aspects to consider include the scale of the piece - too big and it can take over, too small and your lounge looks like a doll's house. There is also the profile, the style - a retro style could be a mismatch in a traditional room the fabric and the filling. The fabric will affect both the durability and the overall look, while the filling will affect comfort and durability.

Last, but never least, why not accessorise with buttons, pleats and piping for that final flourish? Sofas, armchairs, ottomans, dining chairs and bedheads - whether you're buying ready-made, bespoke or having that favourite piece revived, in this must-have guide, we have absolutely everything covered.

Take your weave