Common Upholstery Mistakes to Avoid: A Guide for Beginners

Upholstery is both an art and a craft. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, reupholstering furniture requires skill, patience, and attention to detail. A beautifully upholstered piece can transform a space, but common mistakes can lead to costly repairs, discomfort, and an unprofessional finish.

In this guide by J A Milton Upholstery, we’ll cover the most frequent Upholstery mistakes to avoid, along with expert tips to help you achieve a polished, long-lasting result.

1. Choosing the Wrong Fabric

One of the biggest upholstery mistakes is selecting a fabric that isn’t suited for the intended use. While aesthetics are important, the durability, texture, and maintenance requirements of fabric should also be considered.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Consider Durability: High-traffic furniture like sofas and dining chairs need heavy-duty fabrics like polyester blends, microfiber, or leather.
• Think About Cleaning: If you have kids or pets, opt for stain-resistant and easy-to-clean materials.
• Match the Style: Traditional furniture often pairs well with classic fabrics like velvet or jacquard, while modern pieces look great with linen or leather.

2. Not Using the Right Amount of Fabric

Misjudging the amount of fabric needed can lead to unnecessary seams, uneven patterns, or material shortages. Too little fabric means you might not fully cover your piece, while too much can create excess bulk.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Measure Twice, Cut Once: Always measure your furniture accurately and add extra fabric (about 10-15%) to accommodate mistakes.
• Pattern Matching Matters: If using patterned fabric, account for extra fabric to align the design properly.
• Use a Fabric Calculator: Many online fabric calculators help estimate the yardage needed for different furniture pieces.

3. Neglecting the Frame and Padding

Reupholstering a piece of furniture without checking its frame, springs, or padding is a missed opportunity. A weak frame or old padding can lead to sagging, discomfort, and a shorter furniture lifespan.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Inspect the Frame: Ensure the wood is sturdy, free of cracks, and not wobbly before reupholstering.
• Replace Old Padding: If the foam is flattened or disintegrating, replace it with high-density foam or polyester filling.
• Check for Loose Springs: If the furniture has springs, ensure they are tight and properly secured.

4. Skipping Prepping and Cleaning

A common mistake is reupholstering directly over dusty, stained, or damaged fabric. This can cause dirt buildup, mold growth, and an uneven finish.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Clean the Surface: Wipe down wood frames, vacuum old fabric, and remove dust before starting.
• Remove Old Staples and Tacks: Leaving old fasteners can cause bulges and an uneven appearance in the new upholstery.
• Repair Any Damage: Address scratches, dents, or loose joints in wooden parts before adding new fabric.

5. Poor Stapling and Fastening Technique

Incorrect stapling is one of the most visible upholstery mistakes. Staples placed too far apart, too deep, or too loose can lead to wrinkles, sagging, or fabric tearing over time.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Use the Right Stapler: A heavy-duty upholstery staple gun ensures firm attachment.
• Staple Strategically: Start in the center of each section and work outward for even tension.
• Avoid Overstapling: Too many staples can make it harder to adjust the fabric if needed.

6. Ignoring Seam and Corner Finishing

Messy seams and poorly wrapped corners can make a chair or sofa look unprofessional and unfinished.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Use Proper Folding Techniques: Learn hospital corners and blind stitching for neat, professional edges.
• Trim Excess Fabric: Leaving too much fabric inside folds can create bulky, uneven corners.
• Use Piping or Braid Trim: Adding upholstery braid or piping can cover seams and give a polished finish.

7. Not Stretching the Fabric Properly

Loose fabric can cause wrinkles, sagging, and an untidy look. On the other hand, pulling fabric too tightly can lead to distorted patterns or visible tension marks.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Stretch Evenly: Pull fabric gently but firmly to remove wrinkles while keeping natural elasticity.
• Work in Sections: Start from the center and move outward, securing each section before proceeding.
• Use Clamps if Needed: For large pieces, clamp the fabric temporarily before stapling to check alignment.

8. Choosing the Wrong Cushion Filling

Cushion comfort depends largely on the type of filling used. Using the wrong filling can result in flat, uncomfortable, or overly firm cushions.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• For Soft Cushions: Use down or feather filling for a plush feel but remember they require regular fluffing.
• For Medium-Firm Support: Foam with a fiber wrap is a great option.
• For Firm Support: High-density foam or rubberized hair filling is best for structured seating.

9. Ignoring Fabric Direction and Pattern Matching

Misaligned patterns and upside-down fabric designs are common upholstery mistakes that ruin the final look.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Check Fabric Direction: Before cutting, identify the fabric grain and ensure it’s running the right way.
• Align Patterns: If using stripes or florals, match the pattern across all cushions and panels.
• Make a Mock Layout: Lay the fabric pieces on the furniture before cutting to visualize placement.

10. Rushing the Process

Upholstery is a detailed and time-consuming process. Rushing leads to wrinkles, crooked seams, and uneven finishes.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Plan Ahead: Allow ample time for measuring, cutting, and securing the fabric.
• Be Patient with Corners and Curves: Take your time wrapping and folding corners neatly.
• Double-Check Before Stapling: Always check alignment before making permanent attachments.

Final Thoughts: Take Your Upholstery to the Next Level

Upholstery is a rewarding craft, but small mistakes can compromise the final result. By avoiding these common upholstery mistakes, you’ll ensure a professional finish, longer-lasting furniture, and greater satisfaction in your work.

If you need high-quality upholstery materials, from fabric and filling to staple guns and tools, JA Milton Upholstery has everything you need to complete your project like a pro.

Shop top upholstery supplies at J A Milton Upholstery and achieve stunning results today!