Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March-May 2019

March/April/May 2019

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Dinner Date Fabric walling transformation in historic home

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Heico Heico It’s off to the awards we go!

Official journal of the Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers

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Comment Jan Turner Editor

Expanding Northwest based Upholstery Foam and Sundries specialists Livedale offer an extensive range of superior quality products with super- fast nationwide delivery, excellent choice and unbeatable customer care.

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March/April/May 2019

her

Contact us now for your Free Edition 20 catalogue

Upholstery Foam and Sundries, from the UK specia lists

.co. uk

Meet the AMUSF’s new manager

E: Sale s@liv eda le.c

o.uk

T: 0 1 9 4 2

Dinner Date

Fabric walling tran sformation in historic home

Many businesses in the home furnishings sector are also using Pinterest – another rapidly growing platform. Launched in 2010 it allows users to compile a virtual scrapbook of images, ideas and products they like by curating images and videos. You can join Pinterest as an individual or a business.

Instagram is similar to Facebook or Twitter in that it is a social networking app made for sharing photos and videos from a smartphone while Pinterest is an altogether different proposition, much loved by people seeking out ideas and inspiration for all kinds of new product, especially for revamping the home.

825144

Heico Heico

It’s off to the awar ds we go!

Official journal of the Association of Mast er Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers

According to Instagram, experts believed it was on course to reach one billion monthly active users by the end of 2018: more than double the monthly active users of Twitter and over three times as many users as on WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger.

Pinterest claims 250 million users every month (10 million plus in the UK alone) with 80% of people using its mobile app. It also says it is the top home décor site with 60% using Pinterest for home décor decisions; worldwide there are 2.3 billion home décor searches and saves per year and 11 billion home décor pins.

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For two of the case study articles featured in this issue (the latest fabric walling installation by Steve Franklin on pages 14 and 15); and a new business venture by Joseph Leick on page 12), I was instantly directed to the Instagram sites of both upholsterers to see pictures of their work.

This is a move on from the days when people promoted their work via Facebook which, while still a popular platform (with particularly useful groups such as the Upholsterer’s Friendly Forum), isn’t quite as picture led as Instagram which is growing at lightning speed.

Upholsterer & Soft Furnis

Welcome Manjeet!

It’s interesting to note how very widespread social media is becoming as a tool for promoting the work of upholsterers and soft furnishers.

www.upholsterers.c o.uk

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher Editor: Jan Turner, AKA PR T: 01756 795374 F: 01756 798789 E: editorial@upholsterers.co.uk Advertising Sales: 01732 441133 Published and Printed by Knockout Print Unit 2 The Coppice, Petteridge Lane, Matfield TN12 7LP

While Twitter and Facebook remain the most powerful platforms in terms of followers, Instagram and Pinterest are manna from heaven for anyone with products where the appeal is largely aesthetic. And, just like Twitter and Facebook, basic level usage on Instagram and Pinterest is free.

It all adds up to a powerful marketing tool for those wishing to showcase their products to consumers and it’s brilliant to see more and more AMUSF member harnessing that reach for the good of their business.

I’d love to hear from anyone who has enjoyed great success as a result of social media. Because as you know, the more we ‘share’ the more customers have chance to ‘like’ what we do. So, don’t be shy, get in touch with me now!

Until the next time…

Jan Turner

Design & Production by Truprint Media, Margate Registered in England no. 07263132

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher

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mistakenly referred to Mark Pearson as the company’s managing director. Our apologies to the actual md, Hilton Matus, for the misunderstanding.

If you have a new product that you would like to be included in the next edition, just send in a high resolution image, 50 words of text and contact details to advert@upholsterers.co.uk – cost £99

Langton London_USF_0916.qxp:Langton London_USF_0916 11/08/2016 12:31 Page 1

Upholsterer’s Business Insurance Langton London Insurance Brokers is one of the leading providers of Business Insurance coverage for Upholsterers & Soft Furnishing in the UK. We are proud to be chosen as the Appointed Insurance Broker for the AMUSF. Our Exclusive scheme is underwritten by an A rated Insurer, who we have developed an excellent trading relationship with over the years which allows us to create exactly the right blend of covers to suit your requirements and can include Non Standard covers such as: Teacher Training, Log Cabins, Wood Burners, to name a few.

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Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

Contents News 6&7

AMUSF News Update

8

Industry News

10

Ask FIRA

AMUSF Contacts Features

Head Office Association General Manager: Richard Ranklin E: richard.ranklin@upholsterers.co.uk

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Feature: Second Chance

14 & 15 Case Study: Wolterton Hall Office Manager: Susan Tyler E: admin@upholsterers.co.uk

16 & 17 MyDecozo

The Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishers Ltd, (AMUSF Ltd), Chancery Court, Lincoln’s Inn, Lincoln Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP12 3RE Tel: 01494 429340 E: enquiries@upholsterers.co.uk Website: www.upholsterers.co.uk

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Member Profile: Livedale Foam

20 & 22 Awards Special: Heico Design

Awards 24

Expert Advice: Second Stuffing

26

In the Hotseat: Carol Arnell

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5

AMUSF news roundup

WELCOME MANJEET… Meet Manjeet Upple – the AMUSF’s new general manager.

Manjeet took up her new role in January – and as well as having worked for more than a decade in the furnishings sector is also an enthusiastic student upholsterer!

Taking over from retiring manager Richard Ranklin – who will retain his links with the association as AMUSF president – Manjeet hopes to capitalise on her contacts in the upholstery sector to further boost membership numbers and raise the organisation’s profile.

She said: “I’m thrilled and delighted to be working with the association. It’s such an exciting time to be joining as I know the

board has plans to really promote it more widely and I look forward to being part of that process.”

With 11 years of working in the aftersales furniture team at John Lewis under her belt, Manjeet says she has a good feeling for the sector from her daily dealings with manufacturers, consumers and suppliers – as well as JLP’s furniture inspection team.

Three years ago, keen to further boost her knowledge and understanding of upholstery, Manjeet decided to embark on an upholstery course. After researching the courses available, she decided AMUSF accredited training best met her requirements.

“That was when I first came across the association and learned more about its role as the only trade association dedicated to our craft,” said Manjeet who has completed her Stage 1 and 2 training and is currently undertaking Stage 3 which she expects to finish this summer. “I’ve absolutely loved learning about upholstery and working with the team at Barnett

Addressing an error The more eagle-eyed among you may have spotted that the wall planner which came out with our December/January/February issue of U&SF magazine, contained a mistake. It carried the AMUSF’s old Saunderton, Bucks address instead of the new one at Chancery Court, Lincoln’s Inn, Lincoln Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP12 3RE. On behalf of those who put the planner together, apologies to anyone who this may have inconvenienced.

AND FAREWELL RICHARD… As association manager Richard Ranklin prepares to step down and enjoy a well-earned retirement, he pens a personal farewell to the many friends and colleagues made during his years with the AMUSF… When I first saw the advertisement for the vacancy at the association just over seven years ago, I must admit to thinking twice about making further enquiries. I had spent 38 years in the furniture industry and been through three redundancies as the sector downsized and moved manufacturing to all points east of the UK and wondered if the job would just be more of the same. I was keen though to remain somewhere in the sector for what I hoped would be my last career move, so took the plunge and applied.

Although aware of the association, I had never had any involvement as my work had always been within manufacturing and not the craft/ bespoke sector that our members operate in. I was not aware of the difficulties that the association had faced in the move from Cardiff or

6

Upholstery to do my training.”

Following the centralisation of her after-sales teams function at JLP and the arrival of her fourth child two years ago, Manjeet joined FIRA as a part time service technician. “That was also a very valuable experience but towards the end of 2018, as my youngest child approached nursery age, I began looking for a new challenge and couldn’t believe it when I saw the AMUSF was looking for a new manager.

“It’s a role which marries my experience and personal love of the craft and brings together everything I have been working towards. The organisation is growing and I hope to help it expand further by approaching colleges which don’t currently offer AMUSF accredited courses, along with small businesses who may not be members – as well as bigger businesses who could really add to what we do.

“I couldn’t be more excited about the chance to join the association and hopefully make a real difference.”

Manjeet and husband Bobby and their family live in Rochester, Kent.

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

its somewhat precarious financial position. And then I began to meet all the people involved – and what a difference to the somewhat pessimistic view that industry held to the optimism shown by members within the AMUSF. Putting aside the financial restraints that we had in those days the enthusiasm and determination shown to make the craft sector vibrant once again was infectious.

I was lucky in that the welcome and help received in those early days enabled us all to return the association to a more stable and meaningful position and I can see nothing but a solid future going forward.

Everybody helped in some way, but I must credit a few people who I feel went the extra mile for both the association and myself during those early years in High Wycombe. Joan Milton, Des Fanning, Wendy Shorter

AMUSF news roundup SUCCESS FOR BRISTOL STUDENTS

Cheers to the winners of the 10th Heico Design Awards

CLEAN SWEEP FOR TRAINING CENTRE AT 10TH HEICO AWARDS Students from the Upholstery Skills Centre in Essex secured a clean sweep at the 10th Heico Design Awards at the January Furniture Show.

Students from the centre took the winner’s spot and the two runners-up places, as well as being awarded the special British Furniture Manufacturer’s (BFM) Joan Milton Award (see pages 20 and 22 for full details of the winners and their designs).

Judges Penny Denton (Denton Drapes), Pat Al-Farhan (Heico) and AMUSF manager Richard Ranklin, once again had the tough task of picking their favourites from a ‘high quality’ field.

Said Stuart Elmy, marketing manager at Heico: “This year’s entries were incredibly creative and every year we’re blown away by the imagination of the designs which showcase our decorative product range.

“The judges find it very hard every year as the standard remains so high. I think students see the previous year’s entries and think “Wow! I can create anything I want”, and that helps them come up with all these unique designs.”

It is the second time the Upholstery Skills Centre (USC) has claimed every prize, as its students also took the full set in 2017. Yvette Dearden, one of the directors of the USC, said: “We’re delighted to see our students do so well, and to get a clean sweep is something special.

“A lot of hard work has gone into producing such high-quality pieces”.

and Bert Chapman, along with the tremendous administrative support from Susan in the office, ensured we were able to get the association back on its feet and ready for the future. On his retirement from the board, I recall saying to Bert that what those directors and others had done, was steer the ship away from the rocks. Now we were sailing in a straight line to new horizons.

So, what of the future? We have seen extraordinary growth in training driven by Wendy’s enthusiasm and dedication and demand seems to grow year on year. It would be great to be able to link up with more centres around the UK to deliver our qualifications in the future.

Membership numbers have slipped in the last few years but we look to the next generation of all those who have trained with us to move to full membership

Four members of the Bristol Upholstery Collective (BUC), a collaborative network of upholsterers started in 2015, have been presented with certificates for their Stage 1 qualification by AMUSF director of training Wendy Shorter.

The BUC, which joined the association in 2018, now runs AMUSF accredited courses, delivered by former Wendy Shorter Interiors student Harriet Page.

Said Wendy: “BUC was started by Leigh-Anne Treadwell and the success of this venture has gathered momentum over the past three years. She now regularly appears on the ‘Money for Nothing’ TV programme – and last year was also winner of the Bristol Life award in the home and interiors category.

“Harriet travelled 270 miles each week for two and a half years in order to train at my centre in Hertfordshire, gaining distinctions for her upholstery work. She also won prizes sponsored by Heico Fasteners, Kobe Fabrics and the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers.

“We are proud to be working with these talented and creative ladies and feel sure that other people training at the centre will go on to achieve even greater successes.”

Bristol Collective awards

as they gain experience. We must, though, be able to offer meaningful benefits for membership and look to the new talent coming onto both the board and administration of the AMUSF to provide this. In particular, activities such as social media, promotions, exhibitions and events will be progressed more vigorously as we are now more financially stable and able to pursue these activities.

For me? I have a long list of jobs to do at home but also Irene and I need more time to spend with our growing family. I dream about picking up my original craft of woodworking and moving the few skills I may have away from DIY and into something creative. I’m lucky enough to already have a workshop at home but it is more likely to see wood rather than fabric used in it. We will not lose touch with the many friends we have made through the association and I look forward to completing my term as president.

I pass my thanks on to everyone I have met and worked with over the last seven years. It has been great fun to work with you all and I wish you all the best for the future.

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher

7

Industry roundup

NBF launches version three of its code of practice The National Bed Federation (NBF) has launched ‘Version Three’ of its rigorous Code of Practice, which includes new audit procedures and additional legal requirements.

First developed in 2013, the Code of Practice aims to encourage good practice in the industry and reassure trade buyers and consumers, so they can buy beds made by an Approved NBF member with confidence.

Following a full review, the updated Code – which now features 10 key areas – has introduced new additions that cover awareness and scrutiny on social, ethical and modern slavery requirements.

Amendments have been made to cleanliness of fillings to cover responsible use of any used components or materials or re-sale of used mattresses.

There are also clearer requirements on trade descriptions and further checks on process controls and procedures such as batch control, broken needle and sharps policies.

IMPORTANCE OF UK FURNITURE INDUSTRY RECOGNISED The importance of the UK furniture industry was highlighted at Westminster in January when the All Party Parliamentary Furniture Industry Group (APPFIG), secured a debate examining the contribution of furniture manufacturing to the UK economy.

Designed to raise policy issues of concern to the British Furniture Confederation (BFC) – trade and export; standards and regulations; skills and education; and the environment the debate was well attended by MPs from both sides of the House of Commons. It drew acknowledgement of the economic importance of the furniture industry from Richard Harrington MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Business and Industry.

Commenting on the fact that ‘furniture is fundamental to all our lives’ and that ‘the country has a rich history of producing world-class furniture’, he also said: “We need to maintain the industry’s reputation for excellence in both quality and safety”.

On Brexit, he said: “The Government will do everything we can to ensure that the movement of goods remains as frictionless as possible to the benefit of industry across the UK.” Concluding the debate, the Under Secretary of State said he recognised “the furniture industry’s great contribution to our country and the strong position it is in to make a positive contribution to a more sustainable future.”

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Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

EXHIBITION ROUNDUP Reviews l Heimtextil (Frankfurt am Main, January 8 – 11): The biggest international trade fair for home and contract textiles, Heimtex 2019 special features included a Trend Space (theme, ‘Towards Utopia’), a Green Village focusing on sustainably produced textiles and a New & Next showcase for up and coming talents. l The Interior Business Event (imm Cologne, January 14 – 20): More than 1,450 exhibitors from 55 countries offered a global scale insight into the trends that will be shaping the furniture and interiors sector – from basics through to designer items and luxury furnishings. l January Furniture Show (Birmingham NEC, January 20 – 23): The UK’s largest furniture event showcased new products from over 500 suppliers with all the leading UK names joined by many international suppliers for an in-depth view of what’s available in the furniture and furnishings sector today – and a look at the trends for tomorrow.

Previews l The London Fabric Show (Chelsea FC, Stamford Bridge, March 4 – 5): Hosted by the BFM, the show offers a unique opportunity for upholstery, bed and soft furnishing manufacturers to see the latest fabric collections and fabric treatments from prestigious producers and suppliers from around the world. Over 35 high-end fabric companies from Belgium, Spain, Turkey, Italy, Germany and the UK will show their latest collections. Visit www.londonfabricshow.uk l Proposte (Villa Erba, Cernobbio, Lake Como, Italy, April 15 – 17): The next ‘world preview’ of furnishing fabrics and curtains is this year being held in April rather than May, in the wake of the Salone del Mobile (April 9 – 14, Milan) to make it easier for foreign visitors to attend both events in a single trip. Visit www. propostefair.it l Manchester Furniture Show (Manchester Central, July 14 – 16): Renowned as the most relaxed, friendly and easy to visit furniture and interiors show in the UK. The amalgamation of the show with MidPoint represents a unique mid-season opportunity for furniture buyers, showcasing the newest trends in upholstery, cabinet and dining, beds and bedroom furniture, occasional, mirrors, art and decorative accessories. Visit www.manchesterfurnitureshow.com

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FRIENDLY

FIRA INTERNATIONAL 2019 OPEN DAYS

ADVICE

Steve Cotton, FIRA International’s technical specialist for flammability and physical upholstery, answers your flammability questions.

Q

I am recovering a footstool for a friend, I am being paid for it, but it is not being done as part of a business. It will be FR compliant, but do I need to have a permanent label?

A

The footstool won’t require a label unless your friend is planning to sell the footstool or give it to a charity (either now or in the future).

If the stool is likely to be sold or donated then a label will need to be permanently attached – specifying the relevant parts of the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 it meets. Either you or your friend can attach the label.

Q

I want to use some small pieces of chip foam, with no top fabric, as a decorative feature on a chair.

Would this comply with the domestic regulations?

A

This would be very much dependent on whether or not the chair was upholstered prior to the chip foam being attached.

If it was not upholstered prior the chip foam being added, then the chair would not be deemed to be upholstered after the chip foam is attached as it does not have

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a cover over it, and therefore would be exempt from the regulations.

If it was an upholstered chair prior to the chip foam being added, then the foam would need to be compliant with the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations (schedule 1 part 1 when the foam is in block form).

Q A

Is all upholstery leather inherently FR complaint?

The short answer is no.

Some leathers will be inherently compliant due to the tanning process and chemicals added during production. Other leather may have an additional fire-retardant treatment added after production, while others may be non-fire retardant.

Also, the type of leather can have an impact on its fire-retardant properties. For example, aniline leather can have issues with smouldering and therefore may need additional fire-retardant treatments. Split leathers have a top coat added to give a leather-like appearance – this coating can be either inherently fire retardant or nonfire retardant which can have an impact on the qualities of the leather and whether it will pass a match test.

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

FIRA International will hold open days on Thursday May 16 and Thursday October 10. Free to attend, they are open to all from across the furniture sector and are designed to give delegates an insight into FIRA International, and also the Furniture Industry Research Association.

The agenda includes all facets of furniture testing, including a tour of FIRA International’s newly expanded UKAS accredited testing facilities, details of certification schemes for furniture products and installation services, ergonomic services and the FIRA Ergonomics Excellence Award, consultancy and research services within FIRA International, sustainability and the work of the Furniture Industry Sustainability Project (FISP) and also furniture aftercare with FIRA International’s service technicians team – including a ‘hands-on’ furniture repair demonstration.

Commenting on the open days, Phil Reynolds, general manager at FIRA International said: “We’re very proud of our recent expansion, which has seen new testing equipment, especially around structures, and also the doubling of our flammability laboratory.”

As service provider to the Furniture Industry Research Association, FIRA International also includes an important overview of the work of the research association as part of the open day agenda. This includes details of recent publications, knowledge, insights into standards and its work with the British Furniture Confederation on key topics such as flammability regulations.

For further details on the FIRA International open days email marketing@fira.co.uk or go to www.fira.co.uk/tranining For more information on FIRA International visit www.fira.co.uk, email info@fira.co.uk or call 01438 777 700.

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SECOND CHANCE

U&SF talks to upholsterer Joseph Leick about the importance of being given a second chance in life.

Joseph at work

Upholstery has totally changed the world for Joseph Leick.

From dark days doing time at Brixton, discovering a craft he instantly connected with has given him a second chance in life.

One, he says, that few people coming out of prison are lucky enough to get.

Now with his own upholstery business, a partner and two children, Joseph admits to a sense of pride in achieving what many others take for granted – a solid home and work life.

And while much of that is down to his own focus and determination, his ‘lucky break’ came thanks to Fine Cell Work, the charity that runs rehabilitation projects in prisons by training prisoners in paid, skilled needlework to be undertaken by them in their cells.

Said Joseph: “I came across Fine Cell Work while I was doing three years at Brixton and desperate to fill my time. I was studying for a degree but wanted something I could do with my hands and instantly loved doing quilting, sewing and working with fabrics.

“I did it every day in my cell for four and five hours at a time – it was a great way to spend my time and learn new skills. It allowed me to ‘zone out’ for a few hours

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and proved a therapeutic time killer.

“Someone came in every couple of weeks and handed out new worksheets and materials. One project was to make a huge quilt which I made but just wasn’t happy with the finished result – so I unpicked it and started again. I had the time to do it and it was more important to me to get it right than finish it quickly.

“When I came out of Brixton I started doing classes at the Fine Cell Work workshop in Victoria where there were people to give me support and plan work and I was offered an opportunity to shadow someone at an upholstery school.

It was as a result of that, that I knew I wanted to go into upholstery.”

Joseph’s next lucky break came with the chance to study part time at an AMUSF accredited training centre where he went on to pass his Levels 1, 2 and 3 qualifications with Distinctions. He said: “I particularly enjoy restoring vintage Victorian pieces and giving them a contemporary twist with new fabrics – but having said that I do all sorts of work, from dining chairs to sofas, bespoke pouffes, armchairs and even a chaise longue.”

Before completing his course in 2018, Joseph had already found a studio

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

Yellow upholstered chair and cushions

Floral chair

workshop in Seven Sisters, London, so it was straight in to work with his own business, Studio 4 Upholstery. “At the moment it’s just me and I do everything but I’m managing to stay afloat and have worked lined up for the next two to three months.

“I also have a partner and six-month old baby and six-year-old step-daughter, so the pressure is on! I’ve learnt a lot and feel quite proud of what I have achieved although I’d also love the chance to work alongside someone with experience who I could continue to learn from, even if that meant going to work for someone else.

“In time I’d like to think that I could offer someone like myself a second chance in life. People are not always very good at doing that, so I’d really like to think I could help someone else to turn their life around. I’m now on the advisory panel for Fine Cell Work helping develop programmes for others coming out of prison.

“Fine Cell Work has given me the networks and support I’ve needed to get back on my own two feet, learn a new trade and open new doors for me. They’ve given me a second chance and I can’t think of a better way to repay that, than to throw the same lifeline to someone else.”

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Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher

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Case study

DINNER DATE

As one of the UK’s most sought after fabric walling specialists, master upholsterer Stephen Franklin has worked with everyone from Oprah Winfrey to Rod Stewart and members of the royal family. But his latest project – at historic Wolterton Hall in North Norfolk – tested everything from his physical strength to the agility of his mental arithmetic. U&SF caught up with him just as this prestigious project drew to a close.

W

olterton Hall was built in 1741

by Horatio Walpole, brother of Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole.

Considered a Palladian mansion masterpiece, the house was bought by Peter Sheppard and partner Keith Day in 2016. As owners of the design company Sheppard Day, the pair have been involved in several major restoration projects and pledged to continue the renovation of Wolterton.

Contributing to that aim this year was the refurbishment of the state dining room for which Peter and Keith chose to replace the decades old ‘curry house flock’ with a rich red wool damask to provide the sensational fabric backdrop to the imposing room.

14

They had seen the same fabric used in a room at Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham, built by Horace Walpole.

Produced by artisan suppliers of specialist heritage fabrics, the stunning material is designed to flood the room with richness and opulence, but as a working ‘tool’, it weighed a ton and the tone-on-tone design added to the difficulties of pattern matching.

Said Steve Franklin, who was recommended for the project: “The sheer weight of the fabric made it quite a physical project and meant that the hanging batons had to be extremely strong to carry the weight of the drops. As a mansion of Georgian proportions, it was very high ceilinged and there were some 60 drops to do in total – each one being about 5.5 metres long.

“Being an historic building also meant the ceiling height varied by up to three inches around the room. This added to a challenge already made interesting by massive issues with the fabric itself – it was just 59cms wide with a 2.22 metre pattern repeat on some rolls and a 2.25 metre repeat on others. So it was a project I really had to think about – there was no going on to auto-pilot.

“The fabric for each wall had to be

Hanging the fabric was a major task and required scaffolding

Corner detail

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

Case study

Fireplace detail Staple diet

Completed room

Perfect match

pattern matched, joined and machined before it even got near the walls. The subtle pattern also meant I had to do a lot of matching up by torchlight on the corners! It went up as one big piece of fabric which takes some doing without crushing or creasing it.

“Before any of that, the whole room is battened out and covered with an insulation fabric – either interliner or padding. Then I always put up a layer of fire-resistant calico, so by the time the chosen fabric goes up, each wall has three layers of covering on it – and everything

Ironing out some issues

Finished wall with pictures

Before – the former ‘curry house flock’

over the years. It tends to eliminate tack ties and provides a stronger finish – but it’s something I do automatically and hadn’t really thought about until the question arose. It’s now second nature.

“The pressure is really on you with a job like this. It requires a huge degree of trust in you by the owners – wool damask fabric of this quality is hugely expensive and each room is a considerable financial undertaking, so there is no room for error.

Add to that the fact I was posting progress of the project on Instagram and the expectation on me to achieve a good result was enormous!”

But after 16 working days, Steve was able to reveal the finished room – and to wide acclaim on Instagram. ‘Wow’ said past client, the Czech supermodel and actress Eva Herzigova. And “Such care and attention to detail. It’s quite beautiful,” from Wolterton Hall co-owner Peter Sheppard.

It is understood the newly restored state dining room has been returned to full service hosting lavish dinners – and further opportunity for feedback on Steve’s work. And with owners Peter and Keith now planning on installing fabric walling in other rooms around the hall, he seems set to be returning before too long.

must be kept straight and stretched to the same level of tension.

“Working around the ornate chimney breast, doors and mouldings – and the owners wanted a special finish around the mouldings on the fireplace – meant it was a little like doing a giant jigsaw puzzle.

“I’ve been doing fabric walling for more than 40 years now, so much of what I do is instinctive and based on many years of experience. People ask, for example, why I use angled rather than straight line staples along the bottom edge of the wall and it’s just one of those things I’ve learned to do

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher

15

MyDecozo HELPFUL HINTS FROM

The UK’s largest soft furnishings forum offers some tips on using chain weights Traditionally weight chain is stitched into the hem of weighted sheers and voiles where it spreads the weight evenly across the entire width of the panel to help it hang neatly. This is more effective than adding ‘penny’ weights to the corners as you would with regular curtains.

Some sheers are supplied with the weight chain already included but you can also buy it on a roll to add to unweighted fabrics. It is available in a range of weights from 14-400g per metre, and is a chain of small weights encased in polyester tubing which is usually white.

Fine quality Feathers_h:fqf 30/11/2016 15:46

It is also useful in other situations: • Use it in the hem of ‘wave’ curtains made in regular fabric so that it spreads the weight across the whole panel but is also flexible enough to follow the curves set by the heading.

• Use multiple chains in the hems of ordinary curtains if there appears to be a hem flaring problem with springy manmade fabrics.

• As the chain is flexible, it is very useful when drafting draped items such as swags. It can be pinned to noticeboards or the edge of a padded worktable to calculate the required width and drop.

Page 1

• Narrow weight chain can be stitched into the hem of items such as swags and soft/ relaxed roman blinds to encourage them to drape correctly and hang properly once in situ.

• Use weight chain instead of narrow piping cord when finishing the hems of scalloped or arched valances. It is flexible enough to follow the shaping and helps train the fabrics to hang without flaring.

• Always keep a length in your work bag to use when measuring for bedcovers as it drapes over existing bedding and is much easier than trying to use a metal tape measure to get an accurate size.

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17

Member Profile

ALIVE

AND KICKING Name of business

When established Owned by

Location Number employed

Livedale Foam & Sundries Ltd 1960 Ian, Sue and Mat Potts (husband, wife and son)

Wigan Lancashire 40

How long have you been in business?

26 years What made you go in to it?

An opportunity arose to be a partner in a long-established business that was first started by Sue’s father in 1960 who wanted to retire – so I bought his share. A few years later, when my father-in-law retired, Sue bought his shares. Later our son Mat became a director and shareholder.

What do you supply and to who?

Foam and upholstery supplies, mainly to the upholstery market but also foam to other industries such as soft play manufacturers or for packaging.

What is the greatest challenge currently facing your business?

Trying to find quality staff as we expand – it gets harder all the time.

What makes up the bulk of your business?

It’s a fairly well-balanced split between smaller companies and sole traders carrying out recovers through to manufacturers and contract furnishers What changes do you detect in the industry?

Over recent years the number of small reupholsters has increased after a period of decline. You only have to look at the number of courses now training people to see the interest.

What keeps you motivated?

I get a real buzz from bringing in a new customer, regardless of their size – as an employer you have a responsibility to your staff.

What aspect of your work do you most enjoy?

Although I don’t get out as much as I did, I still enjoy going to see customers and talking with them and seeing their business.

Professionally, what is your greatest frustration?

Probably politicians making decisions that affect businesses without understanding the real consequences, such as giving an extra bank holiday – but they are not paying for it.

How do you see the future of your business?

Our son Mat has been with us for over 17 years and another son is taking on more responsibility. We also have two daughterin-laws working with us – so the business is in good hands and will carry on as it is.

As a supplier, how do you see the future of the upholstery and soft furnishings sector?

A few years ago, customers were telling me that the reupholstery market was finished but now it’s really busy again.

More and more new businesses are starting up.

What are its greatest strengths and weaknesses?

I think its strengths is the fact the industry has changed with the times and adapted to the market. I would guess its greatest weakness is that for many years, new people were not brought in and trained.

So now, although people are being trained, the number of upholsterers who can truly carry out traditional upholstery is in decline.

When you talk to a customer the conversation always turns to...?

Holidays! Sue and I like our holidays and they are something we share with a lot of customers – and it’s nice to hear about their experiences.

What is the single most important piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in your business?

Offer customers the best service and products at a fair price and think about profit not turnover.

What has been your proudest professional moment?

When we moved into and bought our current premises. They were brand new and just an empty shell, so we were able to design and fit them out to suit us.

Contact details: Telephone: 01942 825144 Website: www.livedale.co.uk Email: sales@livedale.co.uk

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR BUSINESS TO BE FEATURED ON THE MEMBER PROFILE PAGE, CONTACT EDITOR JAN TURNER AT editorial@upholsterers.co.uk

18

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

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Awards special

AMERICAN DREAM

U&SF reports on this year’s winners of the 2019 Heico Design Awards…

There was something of an American twang to the 10th anniversary of the Heico awards at the January Furniture Show, with winning designs inspired by the prohibition era and country music.

Last year’s winner, Tilly Farmery, once again took first prize, following up on last year’s magical Fairy Tale themed entry with her innovative Speakeasy Chair – complete with a hidden drinks cabinet.

The runners-up were Debbie Jordan with her guitar-shaped Southern Comfort entry, Susan Ingram’s Count Me In sensory chair and the British Furniture Manufacturer’s (BFM) Joan Milton Award went to Beth Buchanan for her Reading Chair.

Entrants to the awards are first asked to submit their designs and ideas, incorporating Heico decorative products, on a mood board, with judges then selecting the ones they want to see made into small chairs. Finally, the judges get together to pick the winners from the finished pieces.

Said lead judge, Richard Ranklin of the AMUSF: “Along with the quality of the finished pieces, we also look for innovation and imagination behind the designs.

“Each year the standard of entry seems to increase further. I think it’s because they see the previous year’s entries and think “I’ve got to do better than that”, and it really spurs them on to come up with something truly creative.

“We also look for designs that are practical and can still be used as a chair. We did see some great designs we liked, but actually, you couldn’t really sit on them.”

Tilly’s winning Speakeasy Chair was inspired by the prohibition of 1920s America. Made in a glorious teal velvet with a geometric fan-shape to the backrest, it embraces the Art Deco trend of the era.

20

Tilly Farmery with her winning Speakeasy Chair

Parting the two sides of the backrest reveals a glitzy mini-bar – complete with mirrors and touches of gold, as well as full bottles of gin, whisky, moonshine and elegant cocktail glasses. It even plays a catchy 20s style jazz tune.

The attention to detail accentuates the era theme, with a black tassled base, gold buttons, crystal nails and art deco-style pins.

Said Tilly: “I just really love the style of the ‘20s. Despite all the hardship, there was also all this stuff going on like speakeasies where people were determined to have a wonderful time despite it all. I wanted to capture that sense of fun and as I work in the theatre and love a bit of drama, the idea of something hidden and a big reveal appealed to me.”

Tilly, who is training for her Stage 3 qualification, added: “It was one of the more ambitious projects I’ve done and I’m really pleased with it and honoured to win.”

Debbie’s guitar-style chair also drew praise from the judges. The narrow backrest is shaped like a guitar’s neck complete with strings and frets and the base is adorned with a decorative pick board in the shape of a cowboy boot.

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

Tilly’s passion for Art Deco design shines through

Said Debbie: “I love country music and the guitars and outfits can be quite elaborate. So the classic cowboy boot shape worked really well for the pick board, especially with all the decorative gems.”

Susan, who has just finished her Stage 1 course and is now studying Stage 2 at the Upholstery Skills Centre, also took inspiration from her outside interests, using her experience of working with children with special education needs.

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Awards special Debbie Jordan with her Southern Comfort entry

Susan Ingram with her Count Me In sensory chair

Beth Buchanan with her Reading Chair

She said: “I work with children who have a range of hearing and vision impairments, so it was about creating a chair for them.

“It was important to use bright contrasting colours, but I also used reflective material for the numbers and squishy, tactile shapes and braille around the edges.

“It was a real learning curve, especially as it’s the first time I’ve tried certain things such as the piping.”

Beth Buchanan was delighted to take the BFM’s Joan Milton Award, with her classic Chesterfield style chair, complete with attached reading light and mini-library at the back.

Said Beth: “I have always loved the look of Chesterfields and the idea of curling up and

reading a book on one. I know space is an issue for many people these days, so having a three-in-one chair with attached light and storage space at the back works well.

“The other chairs are amazing, so I feel honoured to be chosen for the BFM award.

It’s something a bit special to know that mine has commercial appeal, especially as this time last year I had nothing whatsoever to do with upholstery.”

BFM’s managing director Nick Garratt was clearly impressed with Beth’s work: “The idea is clever and creative, and having the attached light as an integral part of the design adds to the functionality we were looking for. And it also works well aesthetically. It’s a good design and a very well-made chair.”

22

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

Back view of the Reading Chair

Yvette Dearden, one of the directors at the Upholstery Skills Centre, said: “We’re really proud to have all of the winners from the centre. I think they’ve done incredibly well. The standard and quality is really high this year, and all of their hard work has clearly paid off.”

Promotion Foam for Home’s 22,000 sq ft premises in Bristol

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Sarah

Wholesale Supplier re-launches Catalogue & Price List After 22 years of supplying foam, fabrics and sundries to upholsterers and soft furnishers all over the UK, Foam for Home Wholesale have just re-launched their 2019 Trade Catalogue and Price List.

Running to a massive 144 pages, their new catalogue contains over 2,400 products, all photographed and every one of which has its Trade Price clearly shown.

Jon Redish, MD of the family run business explains the thinking behind the new catalogue, “We offer a ‘one-stop’ solution to the Trade, but as it’s 5 years since we produced our last catalogue, this one is long overdue!

“We’ve added hundreds of new products and services and we realised that over those 5 years we had become less competitive regarding our pricing. We were determined to address this and as a result we have reduced every single price in our new Price List.”

The Foam for Home Wholesale business has grown from a tiny wooden shed in Somerset to their current spacious warehouse and Showroom in Bristol, from where their products are shipped daily all over the UK.

Asked what has been behind this growth, Jon comments “We’ve always tried to be a bit different…for example our cut-to-size foam service is not only fast but Trade customers can choose from over 20 Grades. Also, we have a free sample service for all 3,000 upholstery and curtain fabrics we offer, so customers who are struggling to be given sample books from all the different fabric manufacturers, now have a solution!”

Everyone in our industry knows the increasing cost of transporting goods so

Foam for Home have surprised many by maintaining their offer of free carriage on all orders over £100 + Vat AND, a rare thing nowadays, they promise ‘No Bulky Surcharge’ for delivering ANY of their products, including foam, Dacron, fibre etc.

For those customers who would rather order on-line than over the phone,the company has also re-launched its on-line store and Trade customers are now given their own Log-In to view Trade prices.

Despite all the uncertainty in the industry at present, this company seems determined to buck the trend!

Foam for Home Wholesale, Block 11, Cater Business Park, Bishopsworth, Bristol BS13 7TW FREEPHONE 0800 138 1199

www.foamforhome.co.uk

info@foamforhome.co.uk

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher

23

Expert Advice

SECOND STUFFING

In this issue, our extract from Frederick Palmer’s famed book, Practical Upholstering, looks at the subject of second stuffing.

The term ‘second stuffing’, as applied to upholstery, covers a wide field. After the foundation formed by first stuffing has been formed, the second stuffing may refer to anything from a pin-cushion back six-inch square to the finishing of a double-sprung settee, fully buttoned in morocco.

Second stuffing, therefore, embraces a variety of different methods and it is only by graduated experience in all these that the upholsterer can become proficient.

The term denotes the covering of the second stuffing of hair with calico or lining, as distinct from the final covering of tapestry, leather or other material.

It should be noted that with inexpensive work, the final covering material is sometimes placed in position without the use of any calico or lining. Upholstery treated cheaply in this way is known in the trade as being finished ‘in the jacket’.

It is advisable for the learner to begin second stuffing on small work such as loose seats, pin-cushion seats, and backs,

24

before attempting chairs. Where possible with first attempts, hair should be used as a second stuffing. When this material is used it is covered with calico or lining before the final covering is applied.

The correct contour of a seat is determined by the skill of the upholsterer when second stuffing. If the work is done as it should be, graceful curves are obtained. Over-filling or cramming of the hair results in uneven lines, and a poor appearance.

This may be explained more clearly by referring to FIG. 2I4. The quantity of hair required at the centre A is greater than that needed at the side B or the front C. If the same amount was placed all over the seat, the calico when strained would not graduate so well to the edges, because

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

too much hair would be crammed in the limited space between the hessian and the calico.

For pin-cushion work a cabriole hammer is needed for tacking close to the mouldings. A cabriole hammer has a small head, is of light weight and does not possess the heavy fall of the ordinary hammer. The French pattern illustrated at FIG. 215 is preferable to the English type. The slender part of the handle is strengthened and cased with steel.

Pin-cushion upholstery – the simplest form of second stuffing­is illustrated at FIGS. 209-214. This form of work usually consists of a webbed seat over which is tacked a layer of hessian without any first stuffing. As this forms the only foundation for the second stuffing, it is important that great care should be exercised when fixing the webs; frames associated with pin-cushion work are generally light in weight. Loose seats for chairs are second stuffed in the pin-cushion style, as are small chair backs, occasional chairs, arm pads, etc.

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26/09/2018 09:15:31

Q&A

IN THE HOTSEAT... ...With Carol Arnell of the Carol Arnell Design Studio How would you most like to be remembered?

As a loyal and true friend.

How would classmates at school have described you?

Cute but not always docile.

And the teachers?

My wonderful art teacher, John Ivor Stewart with whom I kept in close contact until he sadly passed away in 2017, remarked that “although I could produce a fair final art assessment I failed to follow the prescribed set of instructions”.

With age and wisdom I have hopefully readdressed the balance.

How did you get into this business?

After working as a costume designer and celebrity stylist for 20 odd years, I retrained under the guidance of Wendy Shorter, qualifying with a Distinction. I come out of costume retirement for a few special souls, but I am an upholsterer first and foremost.

What would you class as your greatest achievement?

Rebuilding a career in a completely different discipline/craft. Learning something new every day. I have also just recently opened a retail space and gallery adjacent to my upholstery studio showcasing not only my furniture but also other upholsterers whose work I truly admire.

Your greatest regret?

Ignoring my gut instincts.

Is your glass half empty or half full?

Half full.

Who has been your greatest inspiration and why?

A truly beautiful woman called Carolyn.

Ever since I can remember she was ‘the woman’ I wanted to grow up to be.

26

Your perfect day?

No such thing I’m afraid to say.

Tell me a secret.

No...sorry.

Your desert island disc?

Thelma Houston ‘I’ve Got the Music in Me’.

What’s in your living room?

My two dogs and I curled up on the sofa.

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what would you be doing?

In the world of wonder and make believe I would be Charles and Ray Eames, Folke Ohlsson, Josef Frank, and Banksy all rolled into one, creating timeless visual treats.

What winds you up?

People who do not pick up their dog’s poo.

What’s the best thing about our industry?

The absolute talent and creative flair prevalent in the professional industry.

When we creatively pull together, spectacular projects, exhibitions, and community can be realised.

And the worst?

“How Much? I did not realise that reupholstering a family heirloom would cost that!” I think this is a recurring theme in our industry.

What would you change?

Collectively we need to promote the craft/ industry, not individually. Strength in numbers!

Upholsterer & Soft Furnisher March/April/May 2019

What gives you the greatest satisfaction?

Firstly, when a client comes back for more.

But I am truly content when an existing client recommends me to a prospective new client. Word of mouth is The Word.

Doer or talker?

All who know me would agree that I certainly can talk! BUT what I say I strive to do.

If you could do it all over again what would you do differently?

Never look backwards.

Best piece of advice to someone starting out?

Be prepared to work long, hard hours. You are only as good as your last job. And to steal a wise quote from Wendy Shorter…. no two chairs are the same. This industry is amazing!

WELCOME TO THE

FURNITURE SHOW THIS SUMMER FEATURING MIDPOINT

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Advance and widen the scope of your skills with J A Milton’s School of Excellence

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This three-day course focusses solely on the skills and materials of the traditional upholsterer. The course is designed for both beginners and those with some experience.

This three-day course is aimed at providing an appreciation and understanding of the ‘Art of Furniture Restoration’ and to introduce the basic skills to make an initial assessment and then carry out the treatment required to restore specific antique pieces of furniture.

This two-day course is aimed at those wishing to gain an understanding and appreciation of the materials, skills and techniques involved in traditional wood finishing. This is a ‘hands on’ course with students playing a role in most of the practical demonstrations.

Course includes: • Basic wood identification • Assessment of your chair in order to produce a restoration plan to include your specific objectives • Begin to apply stain and finishing materials as necessary • Evaluate stages reached and plan for completion • Group discussion, Q&A and conclusions.

Course includes: • Wood finishing – Why? • Surface finish identification • Stripping materials and technique • The use of Oils and Waxes • The importance of Patina • Sample boards – experiment with different stains and finishes.

The course aim is for you to understand, appreciate and become confident in practising the art of traditional upholstery.

Remember, ‘practice makes perfect’ and ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day.’

Course includes: • The importance of Frame and Upholstery profile – ‘the line’ • Use of curved, circular and straight Needles and skewers • Staples – where, when and when not to use.

Tony Dickin As an experienced Furniture Restorer and Maker, working with both private and commercial clients, Tony has the knowledge and a comprehensive skill set and, as an experienced Furniture Lecturer, he is able to impart this knowledge to our keen and enthusiastic students.

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e day, a couple Attend from on e full week. You th r of days or fo t your own projec can bring along an t ge d an re to to upholster/res s. our other course introduction of k Open Wee Sign up to our on future s nt ou sc di for in book gs.

More information about each course and dates can be found on our website – jamilton.co.uk

Tel: 01691 624023 | jamilton.co.uk