Tip 12 - Upholstering with Needlepoint

use back button to return to site

Tips on Upholstering with Needlepoint
from www.discountneedlework.com

Before you start an ambitious upholstery project:

measure your chairs from the point where it tucks under the bottom, across the widest part of the seat and down the other side.
Your canvas needs to be at least 6" wider than the seat measurement (this provides 3" tack surface all around - plan for more if you need more)
the image size is the measurement of the central motif. It should not cover your cushion entirely
order all canvas and yarn at once, if possible, to insure availability and dye lot match
make sure to block your design when finished, especially if you used continental stitch (basketweave wears better). A reputable dry cleaners can do a fair job of steaming, but try them out first
Practice this next part with scrap canvas is you're not sure!!! You can easily pull it off and replace once you have the technique. (Or take it to a reputable upholsterer to do this)
Center the design on the chair, wrap the ends over the sides. Pull snug but don't stretch out of shape. We use a staple gun, tack the center of each side, then work towards the edges, pulling snug as you go. Pleat the corners a bit.