All things upholstery . . .

Fabric & Furniture is a complete upholstery service, based on the edge of Bodmin Moor, close to the Cornwall/Devon Border. It’s run by Linda - you may have spoken to her at her stall in Tavistock Pannier Market, where she displayed her popular bespoke footstools, fabrics and takes commissions for the upholstery of beloved furniture pieces.

Whether it’s tackling leather seats in a vintage Daimler or giving a sofa a trendy new makeover, it would appear every job and every day is different for Linda! Oke Links caught up with her to have a chat about all things upholstery...

What advice do you offer a potential customer with a new upholstery project?

I offer advice such as what type of fabric will suit the piece, the amount needed, swatches of fabric, the lead time, a no obligation price quotation & how the furniture can be collected & delivered.

I stock a range of fabrics in the workshop, together with materials needed to complete the job from start to finish.

Accounts are also held with fabric tade partners, providing a large range of choice of fabric and leather with prompt delivery to complement the service.

When and how did Fabric & Furniture start as a business?

Fabric & Furniture began out of necessity on various property renovations. I found it easier to upholster furniture, make window seats to measure to compliment the interior design in character properties, various projects for friends & family, which lead to a stall in Tavistock Pannier Market and then onto building a workshop.

What are the most popular upholstery projects at the moment?

During lockdown, a lot of customers have engaged in home improvements, so dining chairs have proved to be very popular, along with favourite chairs, and sofas as everyone seems to be enjoying their home.

Along with the increase in hobby crafts, various tapestries have been made into custom footstools and as we all need to put our feet up, bespoke footstools are as ever, very popular.

‘Staycation’ holiday properties have also been given makeovers, with beach & holiday themes.

What are the benefits of upcycling a favourite piece of furniture?

The main advantage of upholstering furniture is less landfill, but also, if the furniture is well made, comfortable and fits in the room as it does in many cases, it is more economical to upholster.

A certain piece of furniture may have sentimental value and need bringing back to life, or with the choice of fabrics available, a new colour scheme enables you to keep that favourite piece.