Recovering is changing just the top fabric of a piece, whereas reupholstery involves replacing the inner parts of the chair (e.g. foam, webbing and springs). If your item feels in good condition, it may be that just a recover is needed, or just part of the item could do with new padding (e.g. a seat cushion that has been bounced on a lot!)

As part of our consultation, I will advise on the level of recover / reupholstery required.

There are specific fabrics that are suitable for upholstery - these are ones that are strong and durable, with a Martindale score of 25,000+. Thin fabrics can rip during the upholstery process or not withstand everyday use.

I work directly with a wide range of upholstery fabric suppliers and I can advise on fabrics and source one that meets your tastes and lifestyle. Through understanding your vision for your piece, I create a fabric inspiration board for you, and send samples directly to you home.

The UK Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations apply to make domestic upholstered furniture safer from fires and reduce house fires caused by furniture. The regulations set flammability requirements for cover and filling materials and all upholsterers are legally required to follow them.

Fabric used on your piece must comply with these regulations, and I work directly with upholstery fabric suppliers to ensure the fabric I use meets the right flammability requirement.

Yes absolutely, but if supplying your own fabric it is your responsibility to ensure that it is suitable for the job and adheres to the UK Fire Safety Regulations.

Please note, if supplying your own fabric there will be a 20% surcharge for handling materials not supplied by Joy Upholstery.

Yes. We offer collection and delivery for furniture within a 5 mile radius of our Penge workshop. There is a small fee for this. Outside this area and for large items (e.g. sofas) we can arrange collection and delivery through a trusted courier service. All collection and delivery costs will be discussed and agreed with you.

You are also welcome to drop off and collect furniture direct to our Penge workshop free of charge.

Because every piece of furniture is different, we provide individual estimates per piece depending on the work required.

As a guide, to recover a small armchair prices start from £550 + fabric (additional costs may be added for foam / filling replacement). Dining chairs start from £75 + fabric, and small sofas from £950 + fabric.

As a guide for upholstery fabrics, most suppliers provide a really good range of fabrics in the £30 - £90/metre price bracket.