Profile of an Upholsterer
September 30, 2008
By Lauren Cooke
Ranging from automobile upholstery to more decadent textiles and chaise longue, upholsterers have the potential to turn simple and unimpressive items of furniture into works of art and dramatic features.
Nottingham is an area famed for its textiles and accomplished upholstery services.
Their craft is largely focussed on chairs and sofas, although they upholster a large range of projects – including strange requests like bespoke seats to surround a large pole. A quick glance at the website shows that they perform a craft not only focussed upon drama, but also on the subtler underlay of fabric and texture.
So – how do you get involved in upholstery? It does, after all, seem to be a very specific career choice, and one requiring a great amount of both artistic and technical flair.
Susan has been in the upholstery business since 1992 and has a design slant in fashion and interiors. Wanting to make a career out of these interests, she felt that upholstery was an interesting and challenging choice. Fabulous designs aptly describe the use of intense and dramatic fabrics in combination with furniture shapes and styles.
As with all of the creative careers a commonly raised question is how people who do this for a living manage to continually draw inspiration, and repeatedly make unique or bespoke pieces. Surely after a time this becomes a struggle?
Well, not according to Susan, who maintains that for her upholsterers inspiration is very individual – and relies heavily upon the room, the light and the current trends. Drawing inspiration initially from the location of the item allows you to fit the idea and the design to the room – and continuity of style or use is more important than how fantastic it looks. You must always take into consideration the current themes and popular styles, in combination with the light and the context.
Their range of products are available via the website, and they often supply to retail and contract buyers. However, sometimes the most individual projects – such as the black and white Bardolino chair in a harlequin fabric are the most enjoyable – and if you want something that extra special for you house, then Susan can be contacted at:
Ulterior Design Upholstery Ltd
Unit 3A Sheet Stores Industrial Estate
Long Eaton
Nottingham
NG10 1AU
Website: www.ulteriordesignupholstery.co.uk
Tel: 0115 973 1220
Mobile: 07970 798801
Fax: 0115 946 5127
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