At Advanced Upholstery Services, we spend every day bringing tired furniture back to life and helping customers craft pieces they cannot wait to show off. Most people only ever see the before and after. They drop off a worn chair or a sagging sofa and pick up something that feels brand new. What they do not see is the careful craft and decision making that happens in between. Upholstery is part skill, part design, part engineering and all attention to detail.

If you have ever wondered what actually happens between the fabric coming through our workshop door and the moment we reveal the finished piece, here is an inside look at how we work.

It starts with the structure

Before we even look at fabric, we examine the frame. A beautiful textile means nothing if the foundation is weak. Our team checks every joint, corner block and support system to make sure the piece is sound. If a frame needs tightening, strengthening or repairing, we handle that at the start. As professional upholsterers, we know this step protects the integrity of the finished piece and extends its life by years.

In many older pieces, the frame is incredibly well made but time has loosened parts of it. Restoring that strength brings back the heartbeat of the furniture. Once the foundation is solid, we move on to the internal components.

Springs, webbing and all the hidden essentials

Good upholstery is about what you cannot see. Under the fabric sits a network of springs, webbing and padding that creates comfort and support. We remove every layer carefully, documenting what originally held the piece together. This helps us decide whether to restore it as it was or improve the construction.

Springs are retied or replaced. Webbing is tightened or renewed with modern, durable materials. Padding is rebuilt with precision so the seat or backrest feels balanced and comfortable. This is also where our customers often use our upholstery supplies. Many hobbyists and DIY upholsterers buy springs, webbing and tools from our online store so they can try these steps at home. For anyone who prefers to leave the technical bits to experts, that is where our upholstery services come in.

Foam cut to size makes all the difference

Padding is one thing, but the real comfort comes down to the foam. At Advanced Upholstery Services, we offer a full foam cut to size service, which means every cushion, mattress topper or bespoke project fits perfectly. Customers choose the density, thickness and feel they want. We cut it exactly to their measurements so the final piece looks crisp and feels right every time.

In our workshop we use the same service to achieve consistency. Whether we are refreshing a sofa seat or crafting made to measure cushions, precise foam cutting ensures comfort that lasts. When the internal layers are complete, we are finally ready for the part most people love to talk about.

Choosing the right fabric

Fabric selection is the moment where character comes to life. We guide customers through durability, rub counts, textures and colours so the final choice suits the piece and the way it will be used. Some fabrics are perfect for vintage restorations; others shine on modern pieces with cleaner lines. The right fabric transforms everything.

Once chosen, the fabric is measured, cut and prepared. This is not guesswork. Patterns must align. Grain must be straight. Textures must fall in the right direction. We take time here because it shows in the finished chair or sofa.

Stitching, shaping and bringing it all together

Sewing upholstery fabric is an art on its own. Seams must be strong, neat and precise. Cushion covers need the right allowance so they fit tightly without strain. Piping or trim is added where needed. Every stitch has a purpose.

We then stretch and fasten the fabric across the frame, shaping it by hand to ensure smooth lines and a tailored look. This part takes patience and experience. Pull too tight and the fabric distorts. Leave it too loose and you get wrinkles or sagging. Our professional upholsterers adjust and refine until the piece sits exactly as it should.

The final touches

Finishing details are where craftsmanship becomes visible. Buttons are added. Trim is fixed. Feet are polished or replaced. Every part is checked for symmetry and comfort. The goal is always the same. We want the piece to look as if it was never any other way.

When the last detail is complete, the furniture moves to our staging area for inspection. We check for alignment, comfort, firmness and finish. Only when everything meets our standard do we call it complete.

Why the process matters

Upholstery is far more than replacing fabric. It is about preserving quality furniture, reducing waste and creating pieces that feel personal and original. With the right materials and methods, your furniture can last for decades. That is why we stock thousands of upholstery supplies for both professionals and hobbyists and why we take such pride in our upholstery services across East Lothian, Midlothian and Edinburgh.

Whether you need a custom cushion, a full restoration or simply high-quality materials for a DIY project, we are here to help.

Ready to transform your furniture?

If you want expert support, premium materials or a team of professional upholsterers who care about every detail, contact Advanced Upholstery Services today. Tell us about your project and let us bring your ideas from fabric to finish.