Here are my recommendations on some perfect tools for your upholstery studio.
First up, something for the fabric. In my studio I have these Glide scissors made by Whiteley’s. One of the things I like about British scissor manufacturer Whiteley’s and Sons is that they provide a sharpening service. I also love the fact these scissors are crafted in the UK and made in Sheffield. I had my name engraved on a pair of Glides and Work Masters.
Secondly, you want to get yourself a Metre Ruler as It’s really useful when laying out your fabric. Did you know that roll up tape measures stretch over time. Just rolling them up can make them read the wrong number. I have a few of these metre rulers. I also love these strong glass head pins. The normal pins you buy from a haberdashery are not strong another for upholstery. These long glass headed pins are super strong. For sewing up box cushions I use these Quilting Clips.
For the Upholstery side of things you need these essential tools. Firstly for ripping down use a tack remover. I use a tack remover for both staples and tacks and for my small hands I love this draper tack remover. You’ll also need a wooden mallet to pull the staples and a par of pliers. I like these long nose pliers and I also have a pair of Pincers.
When putting the furniture back together you’ll need a few extra tools. For putting on webbing I like this beech web stretcher. There are a few difference types, but this is my favourite. If you’re using tacks instead of staples for traditional upholstery, get yourself a magnetic hammer which holds the tacks. I like this draper magnetic hammer. Finally for sewing up you’ll need a set of curved needles. I like a mixture, so try this set.
Hope you find this list useful. More tools to come in my next blog for modern upholstery including an in-depth and up close with BEA Group – my favourite staple gun!