Southern Style Savvy: Slipcovers vs. Reupholstery 10
Jan 2019

Happy New Year, everybody! My gosh, where has the time gone? It feels like just yesterday we were celebrating fall… and now we’ve got a big, wide year looming ahead of us with promise!

I know it’s natural to feel a “post-holiday slump” come January, but I’ve always seen the New Year as an exciting and fresh start. Who needs spring cleaning when you have “January cleaning?” 😂

Joking aside, now really is the perfect time to reevaluate your space. Once your home loses its sparkle of holiday decor, an exciting refresh could be exactly what you need to feel make the most of this year!

That’s why I’m talking about reviving old furniture today.

If you have older furniture dragging down your aesthetic, there’s no reason you have to toss it to the curb. A slipcover or new upholstery will certainly bring it some new life!

I love this timeless and elegant fabric!

 

Quick Definitions: Slipcovers vs. Reupholstery

Maybe this is straightforward (if so, scroll down), but if not, here’s the difference between the two:

Slipcovers: A slipcover is a protective sheet of fabric that is specifically fitted to cover a piece of upholstered furniture. Slipcovers do not contain any padding and are removable.

Reupholstery: Reupholstery involves stripping the furniture to its frame and piecing it together again with fabric, padding, cushions, springs, etc.

Slipcovers let you get a little extra creative!

 

Common Misconceptions about Slipcovers and Upholstery

I’ve heard several misconceptions about slipcovers over the years, so here are the most common ones:

Misconception 1: Slipcovers cost the same as reupholstering.

Nope! Slipcovers are more affordable and consist only of fabric. Reupholstering furniture requires more labor hours and usually a greater amount of material.

Misconception 2: A slipcover is as tight to the furniture as upholstery.

Although we make our slipcovers tight as can be, in general, slipcovers aren’t as tight as upholstery. If they were, you’d never be able to get them off!

A snug fit but removable too!

 

When to Choose Slipcovers Over Upholstery

If you ask us, we’ll almost always put in a strong vote for slipcovers over upholstery. Here’s why:

Reason 1: You like the existing fabric but want an update.

If you don’t want to see the end of your existing fabric but need a break for a little while, slipcovers are the perfect reprieve. We can help you find a fresh new fabric to match your decor. Whenever you miss your old fabric, it’s right there underneath, ready to be loved.

Reason 2: You want to be able to clean the fabric easily.

Anything that washes easily gets a vote from me! Slipcovers are a great option for covering your furniture, especially if you have pets, children, or a light fabric that dirties easily. Call it ease. Peace of mind. All those good things.

Reason 3: It’s a quick change.

Some of our clients have slipcovers for every season! If redecorating for seasons or holidays is your jam, slipcovers are a quick and stylish way to do it. (See our last style tip for another option.)

Reason 4. You have worn in the piece of furniture and love how it feels.

You’ve worn in the furniture. You love how it feels. But it looks distressed — and not in the good way. Reupholstering would mean saying goodbye to the fit-to-you form of your beloved furniture. By contrast, slipcovers provide a fresh new look without compromising the cushioning. We got you. 😉

Looks new but is still your favorite chair at heart. 🙂

Okay, one last style tip! If you want versatile style in your home but having multiple slipcovers isn’t for you, another great option is extra seat cushions.

Cushions tend to see the most wear and tear throughout the furniture’s life. New cushions in the same fabric can keep your furniture looking fresh, while introducing cushions in a new color or pattern can give you a quick style update!

Alright, it’s back to our custom workroom for me. I hope you enjoyed these tips and I’ll have more for you soon! In the meantime, if you have questions or style needs, be sure to give us a friendly call. 🙂

Warmly,
Sheri

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