My First Two Weeks as an Upholstery Student: Restoring an Edwardian Dining Chair

Hello and welcome to my very first blog post as I begin my journey towards a Level 1 AMUSF (Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers) diploma! I’m excited to share my progress, challenges, and tips each week as I learn the art and craft of upholstery—and hopefully inspire you to appreciate the beauty of vintage furniture.

The Project: An Edwardian Dining Chair

I kicked off my studies with a real challenge: an Edwardian dining chair, picked up for just £20 at a local charity shop. It was in pretty poor shape, but I saw its potential and couldn’t wait to get started. This piece was not just any chair; it had character, history, and a story waiting to be revived.

Step 1: Cleaning and Prepping the Wood

The first two weeks were all about prepping the frame. Removinngthe original stuffing and upholstery revealed some pretty interesting (and rather botched) attempts at simulating traditional upholstery - this included additional pieces attached to the rails and padded to give the outward appearence of stitched rolls. I suspect this piece was actually a pretty cheap model that had either been built for a low end market to appear good quality, or someone had already made efforts to reupholster it but had limited knowledge as to how to go about it.

The original shellac finish was damaged and patchy, so I decided to remove it entirely. This meant a lot of elbow grease and plenty of methylated spirits—tough on the hands but effective!

Cleaning is a crucial step. It helps reveal the true nature of the wood and any hidden flaws. The goal was to restore the chair to its former glory, and that starts with a clean slate.

Challenges Faced

One surprise was the chair’s construction: a mix of different woods and some rather strange internal stuffing. Trying to unify the colour was tricky. My first attempt with a water-based mahogany stain was a disaster—blotchy and streaky! Initially, I thought I had it figured out, but the results were far from what I envisioned.

Finding a Solution

After some trial and error, I switched to a black water-based stain. The result was dramatic and uniform, with the beautiful grain still peeking through. Often, in upholstery work, it's important to adapt and find creative solutions to problems. This was a game-changer for my project. The black stain brought out the chair's elegant lines more beautifully than I could have imagined.

Next week, I’ll be finishing it off with a black shellac for a sleek, classic look. This final layer will not only protect the wood but also enhance its beauty.

Tips for Fellow Upholstery Enthusiasts

• Don’t be afraid to experiment with stains, but always test on a hidden area first!

• Methylated spirits are great for removing old finishes, but wear gloves to protect your skin.

• Sometimes, a bold colour choice (like black) can unify mismatched woods and give new life to a tired piece.

  
  

These tips are invaluable if you're just starting out in upholstery or furniture restoration. Each project is a learning experience, and sharing these lessons can help others avoid common pitfalls.

What’s Next?

Next week, I’ll be tackling the upholstery itself using traditional methods and adding springs. Stay tuned for more updates, photos, and tips as I bring this Edwardian beauty back to life! If you're interested in vintage furniture or want to learn more about upholstery, follow along each week. And if you're looking for unique, restored pieces for your home, check out my shop for updates on what’s available!

As I move forward in my upholstery journey, the support from this community and the thrill of restoration keep me motivated. Join me as I unwrap the secrets of upholstery and transform neglected vintage pieces into treasured items. If you have resources or experiences to share, I'd love to hear them! Happy restoring!