Before upholstery became more common in the 18th century, loose cushions were the only means of providing sitting comfort on wooden furniture. Horsehair, tree moss, dried grass, cotton, excelsior and wood shavings were materials used as padding. Some antiques used unusual springs that are no longer being made.
There are various levels of restoration, from reusing the existing materials to complete replacement. Bernacki & Associates offers modern & traditional upholstery techniques to bring furniture to its original look and function, including fabric and textile restoration.
Louis XV armchair prior and after upholstery fabric replacement
Victorian armchair before and after re-upholstery
Etched velvet with contaminated in flood water
Re-installment of treated etched velvet and original tacks with replaced upholstery support appropriate to the period
Existing etched velvet treated and reapplied
As seen in the “Before” photo (left), this club chair’s upholstery was beyond repair. The “After” photo (right) shows complete restoration, allowing it to remain functional for daily use.
Curved round point needle penetrates muslin covered horse hair padding to create an edge roll.
Cotton twine looping
Traditional webbing application
The cross-section of traditional upholstery padding where original springs and horsehair material is re-used. New webbing, burlap, muslin, and cotton batting are introduced to replace deteriorated original components.
