Expert: Mark H. Miller - 5/29/2004

Question
Dear Mark Miller,,

I have a federal revival sofa from the 20's--I wonder if you
could tell me approx. how much it would be to get it
redone.  It would need everything--springs etc.

Best,
Bob

Answer
Hi,   In a large metropolitan area the labor should start at around $1,500.--.  The fabric the sofa will be upholstered in will not be included in the labor costs, some shops charge higher labor prices if you supply your own fabric or will not do the job at all.  Pick up and delivery charges,  cushion fillings - if there are cushions,  braid trim or nail trim, glueing the frame if necessary, will all certainly add to the costs.

Upholstering is almost 100% hand labor,  so the skill of the upholsterer will also be a large factor in determining the labor costs.  A good upholsterer will not hesitate to charge top dollar and will be very busy,  a 6 week to one year lead time is not unusual for a good shop.  A lower priced shop will often cut corners and sometimes, even worse, to cut labor costs will make structural changes to the frame that can not be reversed.  Ask the upholsterer how long he expects his 8 way hand tied springing job to last ( 15 yr. aprox. )  What kind of webbing will he use (BFM all jute is best) If there is a soft edge, hand stitched, will he change that? the answer should be "no" he
will do that as it was done originally.  If he says there is no soft edge, it has a hard edge, at least you know that he knows what he is talking about. Will he use upholstery tacks or staples? (staples are just fine) Will he do the job up in muslin,  if he says it's no longer done he is right, but if he says "I sure will" you have the best of the best.  My point is that there are many factors that determine the price.  

I hope this helps,  please don't hesitate to contact me should you have further questions.  Good luck.

Mark Miller