REUPHOLSTERY

BRINGING YOUR FURNITURE BACK TO LIFE...

Photobucket CAN BREATHE LIFE AND A TOUCH OF CLASS BACK INTO YOUR FAVORITE LIVINGROOM - DININGROOM - KITCHEN - RESTAURANT - AND OFFICE FURNITURE . BACKED BY OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE.







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Welcome to our page!





We at Cecil’s Re-upholstery believe everyone’s home is their castle and that there is no better means of expressing creativity than implementing one’s own personal flair in their castle. We know too that this need not be an expensive venture, it can start with simple steps; such as a touch of paint, perhaps re-arranging a few things, or even breathing some life into your favorite furniture. (You know...the ones you just cant seem to part with because they have too many fond memories attached to them.)






Here at Cecil’s Re-Upholstery will treat your treasures like heirlooms, because we know they are important pieces of history from within your home....



We invite you to take a look around this page. It was designed to provide some helpful tools and tips to make your self expression simpler for you. We have provided articles which we regularly update, a color blender tool and a home interior design tool to help you get what you have envisioned in your mind into a tangible plan.





We would be pleased to discuss with you any re-upholstery needs that your decor plans involve. Please feel free to contact us with any questions, there are absolutely no obligations in doing so, it would simply be our pleasure to assist to you.







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If there's one thing that professional designers agree on, it's the capacity of fabric in various textures and colors to bring life to a room. Fabric, when incorporated properly, can define the theme for the season or the mood of the room, and can bring life to even the dullest spaces. Photobucket
3:28 PM

Sling Chair Installation

Posted by BigRussell |

3:27 PM

How to Revive Wooden Outdoor Furniture

Posted by BigRussell |

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By Daryl Plaza


Patio furniture has advanced from the old classic plastic lawn chairs and tables that most of us used to have when we grew up. Patio furniture styles have advanced with new technology for outdoor furniture. For the new demand in patio furniture has patio furniture manufacturers now increasing the development of new materials for your deck patio furniture with new styles and prices that is in reach of anybody's budget. While the climate and your personal taste in patio furniture should be taken into consideration you also have to decide on how the outdoor furniture will be used. Will it be used for swimming pools, conversation or dining? This is the basic starting point for your outdoor patio furniture design. By choosing practical comfortable patio furniture for your backyard will give your family and friends a great outdoor patio experience. You could go from a bistro patio table for a small quaint dinner for two or having a extension and patio table that have folding chairs for ease of storage and will give you flexibility with a large gathering of people. Whether you're cooking indoors or having al outdoor barbecue on your patio it would be refreshing if you were to dine a fresco. When it seems to be a little cooler out finding a sunny spot is a great way to enjoy outdoor patio furniture. When it gets hot under the direct sunlight you may want some shade and covering which you could use a patio umbrella or a rectangular patio awning depending on the outdoor furniture style that you like. By researching and finding the perfect deck patio furniture for your surroundings you'll want to spend more time out on your deck, porch and even in your garden area for years to come

Creative Deck patio furniture for the right style

The fast and busy lifestyles seem to surround everyone in this day and age by having a place to relax and escape to belong to everyone by having patio furniture on your deck, porch and will give you your outdoor relaxing oasis. For some people having lush foliage and a comfortable patio chair with maybe some soft music playing is the highlight while others may choose some swing patio furniture or incorporate a patio rocker into the design. By having casual outdoor furniture, water fountains and outdoor ceiling fans will all help you to relax and lower your blood pressure. Patio deck furniture pricing may be one of your concerns but the most important consideration would be the comfort and quality that you are looking for in patio furniture. If you plan on spending a lot of time on your outdoor furniture you'll want some great leisure furniture that will fit within your outdoor decor and looks great. By spending a little extra time researching your deck furniture plan will pay off in the future whether you're looking for a wood teak patio furniture or a wrought iron patio furniture your outdoor room will have you feeling relaxed and comfortable. So research a good patio furniture plan for your decor that best suits your needs.

Planning for your outdoor furniture

Having the best patio furniture that blends well with your life style will give you many benefits and reasons to choose the right outdoor furniture. By having the deck patio furniture that you desire will encourage you to use your outdoor room more often. Staying inside is on nobody's mind when the weather is beautiful so by having some outdoor patio furniture on your patio, porch and garden oasis will create your personal relaxation space. Traditional patio furniture may include an patio umbrella, patio table and four chairs with maybe some patio furniture cushions. Patio swings and outdoor chase lounges can be added to finish off your creative outdoor deck plan. The final reason for you to have patio furniture that is on your deck or porch is the durability of today's outdoor furniture it is a great investment and will give you years of outdoor memories.


Daryl Plaza is a regular contributor to Creativeoutdoorfurniture.com a website that has outdoor furniture reviews and resources to help you research your patio furniture plans.
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Daryl_Plaza

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By Wai Khean Wong





Choosing patio furniture can be a little overwhelming because there are several material types and hundreds or possibly thousands of styles made from those materials. The type of materials that you choose should depend on your personal preference but also on the climate where you live, whether your patio is covered or uncovered, your budget and several other factors.

By keeping in mind your priorities and carefully thinking things through, selecting the right patio furniture be straightforward and easy. When you are choosing new furniture the first thing that you need to do is pick a type of material. The most common materials are wood, wicker and rattan, metal, and plastic.

Wood

Wooden patio furniture is very popular and lasting. In general, wooden patio furniture can stand up to the elements like very hot sun or summer storms pretty well. However, if you decide to use wooden patio furniture you should treat it with a water resistant coating to protect it from drying out in the sun or becoming damaged from being out in the rain. It is a good choice if you do a lot of entertaining because it's very strong and rigid, thus can accommodate people of all different sizes. It's also simple to change the look of wooden patio furniture with just a new coat of paint in the color of your choice. Good quality wooden patio furniture can be expensive but if you carry out regular maintenance of painting or protective coating on the wood every few years, the furniture will inevitably last for a long time.

Wicker and Rattan

If you like to change the decor of your patio frequently and don't want to have to buy new furniture every time then wicker & rattan patio furniture would be a good and decent choice for you. Wicker and rattan is the second most popular type of furniture that is made from natural materials. Both wicker and rattan furniture is durable, light weight and to a certain extent - flexible, making it great for patio furniture that needs to be brought indoors or moved frequently. Wicker is actually not a material by itself. Wicker is the end result of weaving rattan with other materials, usually bamboo slats, to make furniture.

Rattan (originated from a Malay word - Rotan) is technically a tree, although it grows like a vine along the ground. They are usually found in the tropical regions of Africa, Asia and Australia. The rattan vines are cut and peeled, then steamed to make them pliable, and then they are used as rattan weaving materials. Rattan furniture can be made of stripes of Rattan that are woven together when the wood is wet. It can also be strips of Bamboo or other materials woven around straight rattan slats. Rattan easily accepts paints and stains like many other kinds of wood, so it is available in many colors and it can be worked into many styles.

Both rattan and wicker furniture is a less expensive alternative to hardwood, if you want to have furniture that is made from natural sources. These types of patio furniture don't require a lot of maintenance and can be used in or outdoors all year long. It's also possible to change the outlook of Wicker or Rattan furniture by giving the furniture a new coat of color. So, if you're inclined to change the decor of your patio frequently without buying new patio furniture every time, then wicker or rattan furniture would be the best choice for you.

Metal

Metal patio furniture is often a more economical choice compared to hard wood type especially for people who want the stability of wood but wouldn't want to spend too much. Metal furniture is also great for people that want furniture that has low maintenance costs because most metal furniture doesn't require the kind of maintenance that wooden furniture does. There are three main types of metal patio furniture that you can purchase. They are wrought iron, aluminum and tubular metal.

Wrought iron is probably one of the most expensive types in the range. Wrought iron furniture is incredibly popular because it's stylish and adds a very classic feel to a patio but it's also popular because of its durability. Wrought iron furniture is heavy and requires little upkeep. For instance, just a simple new coat of paint every year or so will keep wrought iron furniture looking beautiful for years. Furthermore, wrought iron patio furniture is sturdy so that it can be comfortable and safe for people of all sizes. It is also heavy which is good in that it won't be blown away in strong winds but not to a point that it is too difficult to move.

Aluminum is often used commercially because it's so easy to maintain, light-weight and tough. Hotels, public pools, restaurants, resorts, and other types of businesses that deal with the public often use aluminum patio furniture for their outdoor patios. Aluminum is a very much lighter metal than wrought iron so if you will frequently need to move your furniture, aluminum may be a better choice. Most if not all outdoor bars and bistros will quite definitely choose aluminum furniture because of its weight & maintenance cost. Aluminum furniture can be a bit pricey for some people but the cost is negligible over time as aluminum patio furniture will last for a long time.

Tubular metal patio furniture is the least expensive type and easily found at discount stores. It has some of the durability that other types of metal patio furniture have although it is not as strong as aluminum or wrought iron. Tubular metal doesn't require a lot of maintenance and can lasts for a long time. It can though become bent and damaged and can never quite be bent back into its original shape. It is also light enough to easily be blown away in strong winds.

Plastic or PVC Patio Furniture

Plastic or PVC patio furniture is the cheapest option and can be easily found at discount/bargain stores. Stackable Plastic or PVC patio furniture can be found at any discount store, sometimes even at the grocery store. They are easy to maintain because all you need to do for cleaning is simply to wipe the dirt off. It stands up well to any natural elements except strong winds and usually will only last for one season.

They are not very sturdy and can break easily. There is a high possibility it becomes a safety issue if you have little children using it frequently because it tends to tip over or break. They also tends to crack and splinter very easily, which is dangerous even to adults. If you are looking for some cheap, quick patio furniture then plastic is the best choice but don't expect them to last.


If you are seriously looking to transform your patio into a comfortable, inviting spot where you and your family and friends will love to spend time, you may read on our useful and easily applicable patio ideas and outdoor patio decorating.
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Wai_Khean_Wong

8:32 AM

Best of interior Design for 2010

Posted by BigRussell |

8:30 AM

DIY Re-Upholstery

Posted by BigRussell |

By Melissa O'Connell


So you've just bought your dream house and after a lot of hard work and organization, you've gotten everything out of the boxes and moved your furniture into the new rooms. It's a great feeling to see everything in a fresh setting. Possessions take on new meaning and look slightly different in a new house. The lighting is different, the views are different, the way the rooms flow into one another is different. Furniture that faded in your previous home now shines.

When Tracy moved into her new home last spring this was the stage she loved best. "I've always been interested in interior design," says the 34 year old librarian. "So having a house full of empty rooms to decorate from scratch was a real thrill for me." Pulling the rooms together in her new two bedroom home was also challenging. "I work full time so decorating is more of a hobby than anything else. Plus, after we bought the house there wasn't much left in the budget for new furniture. I really had to get creative with what I had."

One of the things Tracy had to get creative with was an antique chair handed down to her from her grandmother in Iowa. "It's a really great chair,"she says, "the lines are perfect, but no matter where I put it in the house it looked ratty and wrong." She tried throwing blankets over it, angling it in corners, moving it from room to room. "It just wouldn't work," she says "I was almost ready to banish it to the basement when I got the idea to reupholster it to fit the room I wanted it in."

"I got a book on upholstery to see if it was something I could do. I was worried because I really can't sew. I'm all thumbs." What Tracy learned though was that with a staple gun and a bit of time she could get rid of the ugly without getting rid of the chair. "It took me all weekend, but it was worth it," she says beaming. "I get so many complements on it and the room now."
The chair did have one cushion that demanded sewing skills though. Tracy just took the cushion in to a local tailor with the fabric she'd chosen. "The tailor made me a perfect cushion with a zipper at the back, new padding and piped edges. I didn't even need to sew a stitch!" When all was said and done, she paid only a fraction of the cost it would have taken to either replace the antique chair or have a professional upholsterer do the job. "I can understand why they charge so much," says Tracy. "It's not necessarily difficult or expensive, but it's time consuming. You really have to love working with your hands."

The project was a great experience for her and something she plans to do more often. "I'm so glad to have this new skill," she says. "It's become a hobby for me." Tracy's next project will be the chairs in her dining room set.

If you're ready for a new hobby too, below are some of Tracy's re-upholstery tips. Best of luck!
WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

-A staple gun, hammer, pliers and scissors
- 4 to 7 yards of fabric you love as much as the ugly chair
- Strip nails or stud strips (from fabric store or hardware store) and upholstery tacks
- Cardboard strips or tacking strip

If you want to do a really thorough job, the first and most important step in the process will involve carefully taking the old upholstery off the chair. Using the claw part of a hammer, pliers and or a screwdriver, remove the pieces that can come off first, first. As you're doing this, take note of how they were attached to the frame and the order in which you removed each piece. That way, you can simply reverse the order when you're putting the new ones on. If you are not one to take notes, take photos instead. You can also use the original upholstery as a pattern for the new material.

TRICKS OF THE TRADE::
- Staple cardboard strips or tacking strip to rough edges to get a smooth under surface or fold fabric over them and nail down to get clean edges
- Use stud strips or upholstery tacks to fasten the outside edges of finishing pieces and get an easy decorative trim at the same time
- When choosing your fabric avoid lines, stripes or patterns that have to be matched. Choose medium weight fabric. Fabric that's too heavy will be difficult to work with and fabric that's too light will tear.

Dining room chairs and chairs with more frame than material on them are relatively easy. For dining room chairs, just remove the seat from the chair with a screwdriver, cover it with the fabric of your choice, neatly staple it down on the underside, and then screw the newly covered seat back down. This also works really well for vintage kitchen chairs with vinyl seats.

For extra help as you embark on your project, get support from your local library or bookstore. There are plenty of great books on the market that will take you through the process step by step. Of course if you just want to get started, just get started! Use your intuition as you tuck, staple and hammer down, you have nothing to lose but an ugly chair.



Melissa O'Connell is a licensed Scottsdale real estate broker and Scottsdale resident with 15 years experience in Arizona Real Estate Call her at 877.451.0748 or visit Unique Scottsdale Homes at http://www.uniquescottsdalehomes.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_O'Connell

8:13 AM

RV Upholstery Showroom

Posted by BigRussell |

This video is what dreams are made of ...if you own or dream of owning an RV.

Don't forget us though when you need your investment re-upholstered.

Give us a call for a free quote!

5:44 PM

Outdoor Patio Furniture ...(Video)

Posted by BigRussell |

5:41 PM

Aluminum Strap Outdoor Furniture

Posted by BigRussell |

By Jonathan R Richards

If you are planning to redesign your patio deck in the near future, you are probably also trying to locate something that is new and different in the way of patio deck furniture. On the other hand, maybe you are just searching for something that will be comfortable and long lasting. However, instead of cutting down another one of our valuable hardwood trees just to manufacture a few lounge chairs, why not do a little investigating into the newer aluminum vinyl strapping kind of furniture? No, I am not talking about the old time folding chairs that use to collapse if you sat on them a little too hard. The quality of most aluminum furniture sets has improved a lot since those days.

Most of them have heavy weight frames that have been blasted with sand in order to prepare them to fully accept the powder coating that will give them a tougher and more durable finish than any ordinary liquid variety of paint would be able to do. The sandblasting technique creates tiny pores that actually allow the powder paint to almost become part of the aluminum frame. The usual problems that occur when painting with any kind of "wet" material, like running, dripping and streaking, are never a problem when it is being done with the new powder paint.

Aluminum strapping patio deck furniture is available in a multitude of color combinations. They are either double wrapped in vinyl straps, feature some type of basket weaving technique or have a "sling" covering. These lounge chairs offer maximum comfort; sometimes being offered with head and arm rests. The frames are welded for safety reasons. Other items that are also available include bar stools, tables and individual chairs. All of them will make the redesigning of your patio deck much easier. You will end up with an outdoor dining area that is perfect for gathering the entire family together for a summertime feast.

However, if these items are going to be used around swimming pools, some care is required. The constant extreme heat of the solar rays can cause suntan lotions and body oils to eventually stain and discolor the strapping. Therefore, in order to prevent this, it is always advisable to spread a large towel over the webbing before reclining on it. Outdoor furniture should be cleaned every month or so with a very mild dish detergent. It is recommended that a thin film of a good quality car wax be applied to the aluminum frames. By all means, do not let anyone throw any of your aluminum furniture into the pool water. The chlorine can be very damaging to the aluminum and the webbing.

Jonathan is the owner of MLS buy Owner, a Flat Fee MLS company that specializes in placing For Sale By Owner (FSBO) properties on the Realtors® Multiple Listing Service (MLS) for a low one time flat fee. Please visit Flat Fee MLS to learn more about their services and the Flat Fee MLS packages they offer.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_R_Richards

By Jennifer Akre


Teak furniture is tropical hardwood that has a rich, golden honey color when new. However, as it begins to age and is exposed to the elements, the natural, beautiful color changes to a silvery gray patina. In fact, this is how you can distinguish finely aged outdoor teak furniture! The key with teak is that if you were to leave this silvery gray color on the teak furniture without being treated, you would never be able to get the lustrous honey, caramel back.

Although the color change does not affect the strength and durability of the piece, it does give your teak furniture a whole new look. Therefore, if you are going to own outdoor (or indoor) teak furniture you first want to decide if you want to maintain the original golden brown color or let your teak furniture acquire a silver gray patina as it weathers.

To extend the beautification of the lustrous honey color, a leading manufacturer, Kingsley-Bate, recommends using a protector. Their teak protector is a "cosmetic application" and helps the furniture maintain its color for a season. Reapply as needed.

Kingsley-Bate does not recommend using a teak oil on outdoor furniture because of the high maintenance involved in this process. Every three months, teak oil will need to be reapplied to maintain the brown finish. Kingsley-Bate also states "oiling outdoor furniture may cause mildew or irregular coloring."

When left outdoors without a teak protector or teak oil, your outdoor furniture will turn silvery-gray. This process takes approximately 9 months and depends on the exposure to certain elements such as rain and sun. If this is look you wish to maintain, the only care needed for your teak furniture is a periodic cleaning.

The recommended cleaning solution is a 75/25 mixture of a mild laundry detergent with bleach in water. Only a soft bristle brush should be used. When your deck furniture is clean, rinse the entire piece well enough to remove any dirt or cleaning solution residue. This process is adequate for general cleaning of your furniture regardless if it is golden brown or has weathered.

Kingsley-Bate offers a product for those who allowed their patio furniture to weather to a silver gray and now want to return it to the original color. Regardless of how long your furniture is outside, Kingsley-Bate's teak cleaner will restore your furniture to the honey brown color. The process is simple and does not require heavy scrubbing.

Some people want to stain or paint their teak furniture. Manufacturers frown upon this as the natural oil occurring in the teak prevents the paint or stain to adhere to the wood. If you absolutely must have your teak furniture painted or stained, you should go to your local marina store and confirm what they recommend to use.

While some people will allow their teak furniture to remain outdoors all year long, there are those that recommend it be brought indoors. However, if you do keep it out, then make sure it does not sit on wet ground and that puddles of water are not allowed to pool on the furniture. But the great thing about teak is that since it is a dense hardwood, it naturally resists warping, shrinkage, swelling, and rot. In addition, it contains a high oil content the continually preserves the wood, which is why you can leave it outdoors without much problem. The smooth finish does not splinter and looks absolutely beautiful.

Teak patio furniture is luxury outdoor furniture. You want to make certain you take care of your investment properly as this is intended to last for years.


Jennifer Akre, owner of numerous furniture websites, makes it easy to find quality teak bench and teak patio furniture Learn how to buy and care for your teak furniture by clicking the following link: teak steamers

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Akre

5:15 PM

Outdoor Furniture Made of Teak - Advantages

Posted by BigRussell |

By Athul Lohan


Teak furniture it is extremely resistant to rot and deterioration making it an ideal material for outdoor furniture. the natural color of teak ranges from golden to yellowish brown. when it is exposed to the elements it develops an silver gray color, the weathering process take eight to nine months depending on the climate it had to endure. Most manufacture doesn't recommend applying oil or varnish on the teak that is going to be used out side if you want to preserve its color you can use teak sealers, before using it clean the teak using a mild detergent and soft brush to remove the dirt, allow it to dry, then use the sealer. Do not use steel wool to clean the timber. To remove grease and food stains commercially available teak cleaner will be enough.

Teak can last decades so it is good investment. weathered teak can change its color to gray it is only cosmetic, some find this look attractive. Teak is also used for making indoor furniture like sofas, chair, dining sets etc. Teak wood is graded into grade A, grade B, grade C. Grade A teak it is the mature heartwood section of the timber, (ie the core) it has a uniform honey color it is close grained oily to touch very dense and rich in protective oils. Grade B it is the semi mature outer heartwood duller in color with greater variations than grade A. Grade C it contain he sapwood from the outer sections of the log. it is much softer than heart wood it has large color variations it has no protective oil content. it is generally considered an inferior wood to use.


If you want to learn more about outdoor teak furniture outdoor teak furniture,you can check out my article teak outdoor furniture guide teak outdoor furniture guide
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Athul_Lohan

Posted by BigRussell |

Posted by BigRussell |

Posted by BigRussell |

Retractable Awnings - The Long-Standing Question of Cotton and Solution - Dyed Acrylic
By Eric Scope


The fabric is the first visual element in a retractable awning. It's both the most dramatic and most fragile element in retractable awnings. Any wear, tearing, fading, or rot on the fabric immediately diminishes the overall suitability of a retractable awning, even if the frame and accessories of the awning are sound.


Because the fabric of the awning is so important, a lot of research and technology is geared toward improving retractable awning fabrics. There are basically two major camps for fabrics: natural cotton and solution-dyed acrylic. The key to understanding the best retractable awning fabrics lies in knowing both the history of awning fabrics and the technology of modern fabrics.
The Demand of Outdoor Fabrics Fabrics on retractable awnings have to withstand a lot of environmental abuse. Outdoor fabrics of every type - cotton duck to vinyl to acrylic - face significant wear and demanding conditions. Mechanical damage, such as tearing and fraying, can come from heavy winds or the weight from rain, snow, ice, or debris. (This is one advantage of retractable awnings; closing the awning protects it from those kinds of loads.)


The true grinding wear on awning fabrics, though, comes from standard weather:
Sun and UV damage Heat and cool Moisture Mildew Debris and dust
This causes fading, tearing, and discoloring. Outdoor fabrics, then, have to find a way to resist these environmental factors.


Cotton and Early Awnings Awnings are an old architectural convention, dating back to the Greeks and Egyptians. In the beginning, awnings were made with woven leaves, which segued into linen. In the 19th century, awnings had a bit of a renaissance in Europe as both a stylish and practical window dressing. At that time, awning fabrics were usually cotton duck, an oiled canvas that was heavy and somewhat water repellent and used for ships' sails.


Cotton canvas remained popular well into the mid-20th century. Even now, canvas is still a common (though decreasingly popular) awning fabric. It has a few advantages as a retractable awning fabric, namely that it is breathable and has a pleasing visual texture. New scientific advances in the latter 20th century introduced additional treatments to both cotton plants and processed cotton to make it more durable and mildew-resistant.


Another advantage for cotton is piece dyeing. Piece-dyeing cotton - the most common method for outdoor uses - creates vibrant color, some of the most beautiful in fabrics. In piece-dyeing, the cotton is immersed in hot liquid dyes, then forced through rollers to even out the color and remove the excess.


Piece dyeing isn't without drawbacks. It is done on full bolts of cloth, not individual threads, so it is only good for solid colors. To get stripes or other patterns, the contrasting colors have to be painted on, which is not particularly durable and creates a flat, one-sided visual effect. Piece-dyeing is also susceptible to environmental wear from sun, UV rays, and even humidity and salt water.


Despite the breeding enhancements, cotton has significant weaknesses for outdoor use. Despite the treatments, it is still prone to mildew and rot. According to one cotton mill site, after only two weeks in the sun, cotton is less than half as strong and increasingly brittle, losing its elasticity and becoming prone to tear or fray.


The Evolution to Solution-Dyed Acrylic Acrylic fabric was born in 1944, as part of the flurry of research for World War II because of the military demand for quick, cheap, and highly durable materials. Acrylics are much better for outdoor uses than their manmade cousins like vinyl because acrylic is a fiber rather than a sheet; it can be woven, it's lightweight, and it's breathable. Acrylic fabrics dry quickly, have flexibility and elasticity, and have the pleasing texture and softness of natural fibers like cotton. Unlike cotton and linen, acrylics cannot support mildew growth, so they are innately mildew resistant.


From a color standpoint, acrylics have another advantage over natural fibers. Acrylics are made in a lab. All of the components to make the acrylic yarn is mixed in that lab - including the color. This is called solution-dyeing, which means that the pigments are added to the acrylic solution. The color is part of the fabric. This leads acrylic fabrics to have very long-lived colors, better pattern quality, and both stain and fade resistance.


Because solution-dyed acrylics are so good in rough conditions - like tangy salt air and water and prolonged sun exposure - acrylics were quickly adopted for maritime fabrics like sails. From there, it was a smooth transition for acrylics to be used for retractable awnings and other outdoor applications.


Contemporary Choices Most retractable awning lines now depend exclusively on solution-dyed acrylics for five reasons: Simple care (just an occasional rinse with the hose) Durability(with some manufacturers offering a 10-year warranty) Amazing color and pattern selection Effective fade resistance Innate mildew resistance


Natural fabrics like heavy cotton duck and chunky linens have a nostalgic panache for awnings. The technology behind solution-dyed acrylics enables acrylic fabrics to have the best virtues of natural fibers - softness, texture, breathability - combined with the durability, vibrancy, and resistance of manmade materials.


Retractable Awnings offers quality awnings and patio covers, which are both easy to use and affordable.
http://www.retractableawnings.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Scope

Posted by BigRussell |

Posted by BigRussell |







There are 2 WAYS TO CANE YOUR CHAIR SEAT, pre-woven and hand woven methods.
1 (using pre-woven rattan webbing)
2 (The Hand Woven Method)


For complete step by step instructions hit this link:
http://wickerworks.com.au/instructions.html

Posted by BigRussell |

11:57 AM

Wicker Patio Furniture- Five Great Benefits

Posted by BigRussell |

Wicker Patio Furniture- Five Great Benefits
By Darren W Chow


Wicker patio furniture proves to be an excellent consumer product. Shaped and crafted by professionals, who know how to work with the woody materials, wicker furniture has a deceptive strength to go along with its amazing beauty. When you choose patio furniture for your home or garden, you choose quality that lasts for a long time. If you are on the fence about adding rattan furniture to your property, then these five great benefits should seal the deal:

Keeps you from costly repairs or upgrades: Wicker patio furniture costs more than the cheap plastics you will find in retail chains, but the true craftsmanship costs you less over time. Wicker furniture can stand for decades of everyday use with minimal effort devoted to upkeep. Since such furniture is crafted completely from natural materials, it is a product that can withstand nature's worst.


Gives your outdoor living area a natural look: The natural materials feel at one with nature. This reality makes wicker patio furniture an excellent choice of decoration for your outdoor living area.


Provides you with many seating options: Rattan furniture comes in a variety of options. You can choose a lighter or darker material depending on preference. You can purchase one chair or a whole outdoor dining set. No matter what you are looking for in a seating arrangement, the furniture affords you the options to stay in control of the world around you.

Produces a comfortable arrangement for entertaining guests: Cheap plastic patio furniture may give your guests a place to sit, but it won't offer the comfort of wicker. Natural furniture such as wicker is strong, but it also has enough give to soothe guests and withstand the wear and tear. When you choose wicker furniture as the primary furnishing selection for your outdoor living area, you are telling your guests that you care about their comfort.


Scores compliments and admiration: No one wants an eyesore polluting the backyard. Wicker patio furniture is as beautiful as it is comfortable and durable. When you choose it to furnish your backyard, your guests will always be complimentary, and will likely be jealous that your yard has timeless beauty that will never be out of style.


Wicker makes for the best furniture. It doesn't matter whether you choose it for indoor or outdoor use, wicker patio furniture can withstand years of normal use. It doesn't require you to invest in costly treatment methods. It holds up to wear and tear as well as changing trends. If you are thinking about purchasing a furniture set for your indoor or outdoor living area, and you want to get the most for your money, let the debates begin and end with wicker.
To learn more about the properties of wicker or to buy wicker patio furniture for your yard, visit our site!


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_W_Chow

10:01 AM

DISCOUNT FABRIC SHOPPING ONLINE...

Posted by BigRussell |

Discount Fabric Shopping with Google, Yahoo and MSN


By: Eleanor Kent


Want to save money on fabric? Everybody does. And if the quest for savings has brought you online, it probably means a web search in some form for discount fabric.

Depending on what you're looking for (and how much effort you're willing to put into it), that web search may turn up great bargains or nothing particularly earth-shattering. But like many another quest, how you go about it and the tools that you use can have a big effect on your pocketbook. So it pays to begin with a plan. This one has to do with using search engines to do your online fabric shopping.

Fabric Shopping on Google, Yahoo and MSN: What You May Already Know

Go into any Internet search engine and type in the words "discount fabric," and what results do you get? Literally thousands of listings that either claim to offer the best deal on discount fabric or claim to tell you where the best deal can be found.

Of course, few of us have the time to wade through hundreds or (God forbid)thousands of discount fabric websites. So if you're like most Internet shoppers, you've already come to the realization that the first 1-3 pages of search results on Google, Yahoo, or MSN by and large give the best results. And the fact is that they do. Internet search engines have spent millions trying to find ways to save you time, so unless there's some new discount fabric store that Google or Yahoo don't know much about yet, you'll probably find all the online fabric stores you need on those first three pages (whew!). With one important exception...

Fabric Shopping on Google, Yahoo and MSN: What You Might Not Know

I sometimes find exceptions a tad unnerving and this is one. Returning to our search for "discount fabric" for a moment, you'll find that while indeed, those best results are by and large within the first three pages, there are actually two kinds of listings represented there- what Google or Yahoo or MSN consider to be that best match (which appear in the center of the page), and also a listing of advertisements (which appear along the right side of the page). Which means that what you're really seeing are two entirely separate listings that you can use to hunt for bargains in different ways.

How to Use Those Two Lists

So. Two different lists and one search mission to find a good deal on discount fabric. Do you ignore one or the other, or roll your eyes at all the ads? No! You use the "best match" listing (center of the page, remember) to get an overview of the "best" online fabric stores, and use the ads (right side of the page) to see exactly what those and other stores are featuring- that is, what's on sale, what's on special, or what they each uniquely offer that others may not. Now, with a strategy in mind, you can quickly skim to get an idea of the discount fabric that's out there and then zero in on what may be best for you.

Other Discount Fabric Search Tips

The Power of Numbers
Have you already been to a physical fabric store? Write down fabric product codes and try searching by those for laser-targeted search results.

Promotion-Lover?
Combine your search with words like "fabric coupon" "closeout fabric" and "sale fabric"

Love To Get The Last of Something?
Combine your search with "discontinued fabric" and snatch up the last of the manufacturer's product line.

And Be Specific!
Rather than doing a search for "discount fabric," how about trying something closer to what you're really looking for? How about for instance, "toile fabric discounts," (if toile is what's on your mind) or even something insanely specific like "blue and white upholstery damask fabric - discounted." You may end up finding not only exactly what you're looking for, but with any luck, a terrific bargain to boot!


About the Author


Eleanor Kent is a designer and freelance writer who has a passion for beautiful fabric and for saving money. She satisfies both those passions through the discount fabric of Onlinefabricstore.net, and enjoys sharing her tips and ideas with others who love to live beautifully on a budget.

(ArticlesBase SC #413005)


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Discount Fabric Shopping with Google, Yahoo and MSN

Posted by BigRussell |

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The new challenge for the textile industry is to find a modern type of outdoor fabric that serves each individual needs on top of its core proposes. Consumers are now looking for outdoor fabrics that meet specific requirements and made from materials that can retain its vibrant colors for years even in the harshest sun.

Today hotel owners and other related businesses that uses outdoor fabrics said it is not enough to cover outdoor sofa, cushions and pillows with soft furnishing fabrics and stunning furniture fabrics that are used in dining rooms or windows.

They need an outdoor fabric that can both offer elegance and can withstand outdoor activities.Due to the arising demand for such outdoor fabrics, Warwick Australia recently launches new outdoor fabric in the textile market to answer such needs.

The new outdoor fabric is called the Atrium fabric. This fabric is more versatile, durable, stylish and sophisticated. Atrium Outdoor fabrics are made with excellent features that fits the requirements of both the commercial and residential market. Atrium fabrics are ultra violet resistant; anti-microbial, mildew and stain resistant. These fabrics are developed with exceptional durability, easy to clean ability and with an environmentally-friendly manufacturing process.

The true performance of Atrium Fabrics can exceed the difficult requirements for hospitality or contract applications, surpass heavy-duty residential standards appropriate for both upholstery and drapery applications inside and out, which are also perfect for high usage areas in the family home. Not only that, Atrium outdoor fabric comes with a wide selection of stripes, solids, floral and texture.Warwick’s Atrium outdoor fabric is specially created for both indoor and outdoor markets.

It is a technologically-advanced Aussie product developed to blend in any range of interior settings in a fashionable style with soft texture, high performance and durability.Warwick Fabric is an Australian company that has been in the textile industry for decades now and has earned a reputation in creating innovative, practical, quality and stylish fabrics. They are the very first Australian company to receive the Queen’s Award for export achievement.

They also give emphasis on creating quality fabrics such as interior fabrics, soft furnishing fabrics, age care fabrics, decorating fabrics, upholstery fabrics and focus on fabric innovation that ensure costumer satisfaction.

You can visit Warwick’s Atrium outdoor fabric at http://www.warwick.com.au/fabric-finder_atrium outdoor.aspx.

Posted by BigRussell |

Do you have ugly lamps just sitting in your attic or basement collecting dust? Do you want a lamp for a specific room in the house, but they're way to expensive to buy new? I had 3 small, ugly plain 'ol lamps just sitting in our attic. I didn't feel like spending a hundred bucks just to get a new lamp. I knew that with a little magic I could get these lamps to look awesome in whatever room I wanted.

Typically, a lamp will come with a plain white shade. That is exactly what you need!! Even if you have an ugly lamp base, a pretty shade will make the lamp look totally different. And just giving an old base a good bath will make it look different too. Just because you know the lamp is old, doesn't mean all your guests will. Now if the base really is ugly, give it a little paint job to match the decor of the room it's going in.

First, decide on what color scheme you're going to go with. My son's room is done in bright colors with tropical fish, so I chose a bright yellow to match perfectly. I found a very inexpensive sponge and sponge painted the yellow over the entire lamp shade. You could also use the sponge to cover the entire shade one color and then sponge paint on a different color. You could do 2 contrasting colors or choose 2 colors that are very close. Instead of sponges, you could also find some painting stamps and stamp designs on the shade. Embellish the edges with ribbons or gems to give it a fancier design or leave the edges alone.

Design your shade on paper first before you begin. The options are endless, just be creative and have fun with it!


Jennifer is a work at home mom with 2 wonderful boys and the owner of many websites including MomOnABudget.com She also owns and operates Find me a work at home job [http://www.findmeaworkathomejob.com] and where to find cheap web hosting [http://www.chooseahostingplan.com].
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Shircel

Posted by BigRussell |

3:56 PM

TIME TO TAKE THE LIVING OUTDOORS

Posted by BigRussell |


The concept of having our indoor spaces and outdoor spaces work together is not a new one.

As an interior designer, I recommend approaching the design of our outdoor rooms in the same way you would an indoor room. If you are thinking of creating a new outdoor room, or redesigning your existing outdoor room, here is a planning process to follow:

First, always remember 'form follows function'. Determine the ideal usage for the outdoor space. For example, is it a space you will want to watch TV in? What about music? When you entertain, will you want easy access to the grill? How about refrigerated beverages? Jot down your wish list for the ideal outdoor space and work from there. Even if you don't have the resources to fully realize your 'ideal', you will have the proper plan in place to execute against. Look on-line and in magazines and cut out pages of spaces that appeal to you. You can even tour some of the resorts and take pictures.

It is important to have the design of the outdoor room compliment the indoor décor. So, if you have a rustic Southwestern look and feel inside, you would not want to create a shabby chic cottage look outside. As an example, a saltillo tile patio floor will complement a Southwest, rustic décor, while an acid stained concrete might be a better choice for complementing a contemporary modern interior. Furniture materials include; teak, faux wicker, aluminum, iron and composites. Covered with plush cushions covered in solution dyed outdoor fabrics, and accent throw pillows will create a comfortable, beautiful seating area.

Sketch out a plan. Don't worry about scale and artistic rendering, just place things to get a feel for how your outdoor room will be set up. Do you want a large outdoor sofa to recline on? How about a hammock? How many people will you ideally be able to seat at a table under a covered patio? Will you want or need a secondary covered area in the yard? If so, you will want to investigate gazebos or large free standing umbrellas.

There are some amazing products that have been adapted to suit the outside elements. You can get an outdoor TV (sunbritetv.com), cabinetry designed to withstand heat, cold and water (outdoorcabinetry.com). There are extensive choices for area rugs that are designed for outdoor usage. The area rugs can be found at local retailers and a multitude of on-line resources (i.e.Ballard Designs, FLOR, Home Decorators). By the way, these area rugs are so functional and pretty, I recommend them for indoor heavy pet and children areas too!. Much like the area rugs, outdoor fabrics are so fabulous to look at and touch, they are suitable for use on indoor furnishings too (Sunbrella, Perennials). There are even outdoor fabric trim options available to dress up your throw pillows. If you have old, moldy, dull cushions, but your furniture is in good condition, I recommend replacing the cushions versus starting over with new furniture. Furniture upholstery vendors (Gemini Upholstery) are very knowledgeable about the proper interior foam and fabrics to use on outdoor seating. Outdoor lighting including floor and table lamps and window treatments both for looks, and to block the sun and provide privacy are quite popular too.

Of course landscaping is a key design element too. Carefully placed trees, shrubs and ground covers will add color and texture. For the under patio areas, potted annuals will add bright splashes of color to complement your outdoor fabric choices. Free standing water features will add an additional feeling of relaxation to the space as well.

Before we know it the temperatures will climb into the triple digits so now is the ideal time to create, and fully enjoy our outdoor family rooms.



About the author:Suzanne Lasky, Allied ASID is the owner of S Interior Design. S Interior Design makes homes harmonious, functional and beautiful for families with 2-legged and 4-legged members. Suzanne has an M.B.A. and an A.A.S. degree in Interior Design. Suzanne offers years of real world experience, giving her clients the peace of mind to know that their projects will be professionally handled from start to finish. She is an experienced residential and small commercial interior designer and is the exclusive provider of Pawprint Design Services™ 'Stunning Interiors with Pets in Mind'. For more helpful tips-visit http://www.sinteriordesign.com/

4:10 PM

A LITTLE BIT OF DAYDREAMING FOR YOU

Posted by BigRussell |

4:01 PM

Solar Shade Fabrics For Home and Office

Posted by BigRussell |



There are a wide variety of solar shade products. You're sure to find a high quality, beautiful and highly functional solar shades that meets your business needs.


THERMAL PROTECTION Solar shades are available in a variety of densities and colors which can provide solar protection along with reduced glare and brightness on work surfaces and computer screens. This allows for more comfortable working conditions, helping contribute to productivity.


Up to 90% of thermal radiation can be blocked with solar shades. Businesses will benefit from a reduction in heating and cooling costs, allowing you to enjoy more comfortable temperatures.
DAYTIME PRIVACY With solar shades on your windows you can be assured complete daytime privacy while still providing an exceptional view of the exterior and blocking harmful solar radiation.


LOW MAINTENANCE Solar shades offer outstanding durability in climatic conditions of all types. Easy to clean and operate, maintenance is kept to a minimum while your solar screens remain beautiful.


MOTORIZATION Motorized roller shades are also available for your solar screen. These features are helpful for large or high windows, large buildings, and businesses.


FABRICS There are a tremendous selection of Solar Shade Fabrics. Solar Shade Fabrics are divided by what is known as its "Openess Percentage". 0% being the tightest weave and least open, to 25% being the most open weave. The best way to select a solar shade fabric is to understand what issue needs to be addressed. Is it too much heat entering the room, or is it too much glare that the computer screens can't be seen well?


The tighter the weave, or lower the percentage number, the fabric will perform better. There is also the issue of color. Lighter colors reflect more heat and darker colors reduce more glare.
Which ever problem there may be in a office, or a home, there is a solar shade fabric that will come to the rescue.


The author, Neil Gordon is the owner of Decorating with Fabric Contract. Decorating with Fabric Contract provides a complete offering of window coverings for Solar Solutions and Light Management. We serve the commercial market including Office Buildings, Hospitals and Nursing Homes.


Motorized and manual systems are available in an extensive selection of Solar Screen Fabrics, Cellular Shades and Smart Fabrics. We also are experts in fabric fabrication and can assist in any Drapery, Reupholstery and Wall Upholstery projects.

Liquid Leather For Car Upholstery - Does it Really Work?
By Theresa Kruger




Liquid Leather's claimed innovation is that it fixes torn leather for car upholstery. It's been around for decades in one form or another. The original product was invented in the 1960s and called Minute Mender. To use Liquid Leather, all you need is to apply a little dab of the correct color, then apply heat and you're upholstery looks like new again. Well it would be nice if it was that simple.

Liquid Leather isn't actually leather. It's actually a urethane compound. It solidifies into leather like pliancy when it's heated. According to the directions, you first clean the leather with soap and warm water. Then you simply spread it over the afflicted area. You then use a piece of grain paper to impress a leather pattern into the urethane. Then apply heat for two minutes and remove the paper. There you have it! You have a perfectly matched, indistinguishable repair. Is it really all that easy? Here's the downside.

Even with your best efforts and if you follow the directions very carefully, you may not get a color tone that matches exactly. You'll be looking at a slightly off-color patch on your car, couch or jacket for years to come.

-If you get the colors to match when the mix is wet, the color changes somewhat when it dries.
-The finished repair looks worse than the original damaged area.
-The tear may be in a curved area like a couch cushion, so applying heat might be a challenge.
-It's really messy to work with.
-Even if you do repair it and it looks half decent the fixed area will start to crumble and pull apart because it's not flexible material.

Liquid Leather is not something you'd want to use on expensive car interiors. It's best left to professionals in the leather repair field. I really can't understand why this product has been around on the market for so long.

Interested in learning more about car care and other gas saving products seen on tv? I'll be reviewing more products throughout the summer months. Please come by for a visit at my blog HonestInfomercialReviews.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Theresa_Kruger

Posted by BigRussell |

11:10 AM

Quality in Furniture Upholstery

Posted by BigRussell |


By Sarah Martin

The retail dealer in furniture must accustom himself to being able to recognize qualities in upholstered furniture bought from the manufacturer, as in no other line of work is it possible to pass off inferior goods so easily.

The actual upholstery is entirely covered in a finished chair or sofa, and often two finished chairs will appear exactly similar in outward aspect, yet one will outwear the other several times over. It is safe to say that 90% of the wholesale manufacturers do not furnish the best grade of material and workmanship in the goods that they sell. In the first place, all upholstery frames should be made of ash.

The exposed portions only, such as feet or arms, should be made of the decorative wood required, such as oak, mahogany or walnut, etc. Webbing which upholds the springs and corner guards (http://www.ferche.com) should be four inches wide, and the best grade has four red threads running parallel about one-half inch from each edge. The inferior grades are narrower, with blue and black threads at the edges instead of red.

The webbing should be tightly stretched and interlaced and should be nailed with seven tacks at each end. If good webbing is used, it can generally be taken for granted that the better quality goods are used throughout. The webbing can be examined by tearing off a corner of the black cambric covering underneath the chair.

The next item to examine on an upholstered piece is the gimp which covers the tacks. This should be of good quality and well glued, firm and flat, instead of being tacked to the frame. The stronger springs should be in the middle of the seat, the weaker in the rear and the balance in the front and sides. The best grade of springs have the ends of the springs knotted to the next loop, the inferior grades do not, the ends being merely cut off along with the corner protector (http://www.ferche.com).

The advantage of the knotted spring is that it cannot unwind or get loose from its fastening and gradually slip through the upholstery material. The springs should be japanned or enameled. Each spring should be tied in six places with a firm knot instead of a simple loop and they should be all tied together, each in four directions. The ends of the springs should be nailed firmly to the frame work. The springs should be covered on top with a piece of heavy burlap and each spring should be sewed to the burlap in four places.

A continuous twine should be used. The best hair is "South American Drawings," which is long and soft horse hair that has been sterilized, treated and curled, either black or white in color. The white is slightly more expensive but no better in quality.

There should, however, be no short pieces mixed in. The hair is placed on top of the burlap which covers the springs, and under the cross-stitching of twine, the hair is worked and interlaced by the experienced upholsterer. Over this is loosely tacked a piece of light burlap, which in turn is sewn to the under heavy burlap. This is done by means of a series of squares covering the whole scat or back.

After this is completed, additional hair is worked in, and then the top piece of light burlap is tacked tightly down to the frame and wall protectors with tacks about 1/4" apart. The edgings are now shaped and the edge stitching made, under which is placed a thin layer of hair and over this is placed unbleached material, firmly stretched and tacked on the sides. Over this is placed a layer of cotton wadding, and finally the finished material, which is tacked closely to the molding. The gimp is then glued over the tacks as a finish, and finally the black cambric is nailed to the bottom side and the piece is complete.

In inferior workmanship, the stuffing may be of excelsior, sea weed, moss, goats' hair, pigs' hair, or old rags, and with the amount of detailed labor and the number of processes used in properly doing upholstery work, one can readily judge that the quality of both material and workmanship can be very greatly varied, causing the actual cost of the finished work to run a considerable range, all of which can be hidden under the final covering.


Sarah Martin is a freelance marketing writer from San Diego, CA. She specializes in do-it-yourself home maintenance and improvement, from wall protectors to corner guards. For the best in the hardwood molding industry, please visit http://www.ferche.com/.Source:www.isnare.com

1:26 PM

Decoding Upholstery Foam

Posted by BigRussell |

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One of the best ways to make your project look and feel great is knowing about foam. Pick the wrong thing and your may feel you are sitting on a board or in a bucket. Chose the right foam, and you will add years to you comfort and the life of your furniture. Easily 25% of all furniture repairs I see deal with bad padding. The point is start with good foam and you won't be sorry. Although some might not want to be believe this, but cushion fill is one of the easiest things to understand in upholstery. There are only 2 simple things you should know.

Foam has 2 basic element Density and Firmness. Density or weight which is the first element and this tell you how much material goes into the product i.e. the more it weighs the higher the density and the higher the density the higher the weight. The second element tells you the firmness of the product. which is how much weight it takes to compress the foam 1/3. That is a 1 cubic foot block of foam will compress 1/3 when a weight equal to it firmness number is placed on the figure. These elements are expressed in numbers as Density / Firmness. Here is an example of two 15/15 and 29/52.Since we know what each set of numbers represents, Density / Firmness (or we can also say Weight / Firmness), we can figure out the destiny and firmness of our foam.15/30 = 1.5 pounds of padding per cubic foot will take 30 pounds of weight to compress the block 33% or 1/3. And 29/52 = 2.9 pounds per cubic foot and it will take 52 pounds of weight to compress this block 1/3. See not so hard as some might lead you to think. Now what does this mean to you and your furniture?

Here are some simple rules to consider to help guide us: For seats the thicker the padding the lower compression weight we want. For seats the thinner the foam the higher the compression weight we want. For seats we want a high density foam no less then 2.2 For backs we want a density no higher then 1.8 Make all our foam 1/2 inch bigger all the way around then your cover or pattern i.e. 4 inch boxing = 5 inch foam, 29 inch wide seat = 30 inch, 18 inch seat board = 19 inch foam and so on. This way you will have a nice tight seat. Always rap our foam in bonded dacron or fiber batting. I'll make it even simpler and let we know what destiny/firmness I would consider for my projects using the above information.

Seat: Dining room chairs 1.5 to 3 inch foam 29/52 Chair, Sofa, and love seat 4 to 5 inch 25/35, Chair, Sofa, and love seat 6 to 8 inches go 22/30.Note: These numbers are industry guides not rules. So there is some variation in numbers like 28/53 instead of 29/52 but basically the same thing. Just a mill change. Keep in mind we want the highest density you can get for the firmness we chose. In choosing high-density we add years to your comfort.Firm low-density products may go as little as a few weeks or months until we start to see or feel it losing it's comfort and shape. Hence most warranties do not cover "foam losing its shape or getting soft."

A Key Take Away: Padding that is low in weight, although firm, will not last or support as well as a high density softer padding. example: 25/35 will last years longer, in my real world expernce, then 10/35 for seats. It is literally days or months compared to years or decades. I upholstered a large set of Dr office waiting room chairs when I was an apprentice. We replaced the cover and the foam with 29/52 2 inch. Some 15 years later, I reupholstered the same chairs with new fabric but did not need to replace the foam. 15 years later it was still going strong. The Dr office may have saved $800.00 by having us install the right product for the job. This knowledge is way we can warranty quality seat cushions for 5 years. Knowing the numbers of density to firmness is the key. This is what we aren't supposed to understand. Density is the key to foam comfort and life.

Simply put, for seats, the higher the density the longer the life. What if we want for a back? Then here is a little guide we can reference. Backs: Firm back 18/18 Softback 15/15.
http://eisenbergupholstery.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Eisenberg

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If your favorite old sofa has lost that new look and feel, then consider replacing the cushion foam. This simple project can be completed in less than an hour and will have your couch looking and feeling like new again.


Sofa cushions contain a foam rubber insert that is typically manufactured from a polyurethane foam. Over time, the foam in your couch cushions starts to break down and lose that firm feeling. This breakdown is accelerated with frequent use. Your guests may appear to sit 'in' your couch, as opposed to 'on' your couch as the cushions sag under their weight.
There is a simple four step process that can be completed by almost anyone and will breathe new life back into your sofa.


Step 1 - Get accurate measurements of your existing cushions. You should obtain the length, width, and thickness of the cushions. If your cushions are not an exact square or rectangle, the longest edges should be measured. It is advisable to remove your foam from one of your cushions when obtaining these measurements to ensure accuracy.


Step 2 - Order the new foam. With your existing measurements in hand, you should have everything you need to determine what size cushion replacement foam you need to order. Be aware that you have the option of selecting different degrees of firmness for your new foam. Select a block of replacement foam that meets or exceeds the size of your existing cushions. Realize that one large six foot block of foam can be cut to size to accommodate multiple cushions.


Step 3 - Cut your replacement foam to size. Remove your old cushions from their covers. Lay these on top of the new replacement foam, and trace an outline around the edges with a marker. You now have a template that will allow you to cut your foam to the exact size and shape required. An electric carving knife is perfect for cutting ths foam and it can be done with ease. A standard sharp knife with a long blade can be used as well. Caution should always be used when handling sharp instruments. Make sure that your knife is perpendicular to the foam when cutting to ensure that your replacement cushions are square.

Step 4 - Stuffing the replacement foam into the cushion covers. If you are using a dacron fiber wrap, you will want to wrap the replacement foam now. Make sure that the ends of the dacron meet on the outside edges of the replacement foam to keep the fiber wrap seam from showing. Insert your cushion foam into the cushion cover. It may be necessary to compress the foam to get it back in. Once inserted, make sure that all the edges are square within the cushion cover.
This simple process of installing cushion replacement foam is outlined in more detail at CouchCushionReplacementFoam.com. We are professional online providers of discount cushion foam for interior sofas and chairs. We aggregate products from multiple suppliers to ensure that you find the best deal.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Moore

Posted by BigRussell |

7:37 PM

CLEANING LEATHER UPHOLSTERY IN 5 EASY STEPS

Posted by BigRussell |

Homeowners invest a lot to ensure that their homes will look good. They invest in furniture to complete the comfortable feel of their homes. In order for the furniture to last long, it is important to give it the proper cleaning and maintenance it deserves.
Upholstered furniture is among our favorite. This is because we can choose the different colors we want that will go well with our interior. This makes it essential to learn how to clean upholstery. Keeping the furniture clean will help increase its life. In addition, you will be safe from dust and other forms of dirt from the furniture.

Cleaning your upholstery is not that difficult. Here are some tips to help you out:

1. Vacuum it as often as you vacuum your carpet. This will prevent the dust from setting deeper in the upholstery. It will make your monthly deep cleaning routine easier as well.

2. Remove all removable cushions when cleaning. See to it that you vacuum all its side, from the back to the front, and under the cushion. You can use a handheld brush with gentle ends to loosen the dirt from within. Vacuum it right away so that the dirt would not spread.

3. Clean spills and visible dirt immediately. Do not wait for the liquid spills to dry. Just like in carpets, blot as much of the liquid as you can. The longer the spill stays on your upholstery, the more difficult it is to clean. The moisture from the liquid can also damage the fabric that is why blotting as much of the liquid off is ideal.

4. Test commercial upholstery cleaner before using it on the furniture. Keep in mind that cleaners contain harsh chemicals. Test them first in the unnoticeable portions of the upholstery. Observe if there is any discoloration or fading. Keep in mind that there are different types of materials; cleaning leather upholstery requires different cleaner compared with ordinary fabrics. If there is discoloration or fading, stop using the cleaner.

5. Always use soft clean cloth when removing the stain. This will ensure that you will not damage your upholstery. You can also be sure that you are not transferring more dirt to the upholstery than you are removing it.

You do not have to do thorough cleaning on your upholstery every day. Just vacuum it at least twice a week and schedule a deep cleaning once in every two months. Just make sure that you remove the stain as soon as you see it. This will make it easier.
Cleaning your upholstery is not as difficult as it may seem. Just see to it that you have the right cleaner and the basic knowledge to deal with the furniture.
BIO

Roby Pagoni is a cleaning expert. For more great cleaning tips to keep your home clean and organized fast, visit http://www.speedcleaningstrategy.com/upholstery-care.html
Sign up today and get your Free 10 day Mini-Course delivered directly to your email.Copyright © 2009

Posted by BigRussell |

2:47 PM

SHOULD YOU RE-COVER THAT LAZY-BOY?

Posted by BigRussell |


If you are planning on purchasing a second hand Lazy Boy recliner, or even an "as is" or clearance item from an authorized dealer, your purchase will not carry the Limited Lifetime Warranty available from Lazy Boy. You may not be able to purchase replacement parts for your recliner if it is a discontinued model. However, you may still find a good deal even if you take these issues into consideration.

Since the recliner has several moving parts, you would be strongly advised to try it out first before you buy. Buying a recliner over the Internet or sight unseen can be risky. Remember that your recliner could also be damaged in shipping and you will want to take special care that it arrives at your home in the same condition as you tested it out.

When you test out a used lazy boy recliner you may find the reclining mechanism too stiff or too loose. This is something that might be very easily adjusted even though it might have an impact on the price that the seller is asking. If you can, you may want to try adjusting the tension to see if this is a simple fix or something more seriously wrong with the reclining mechanism.

Several companies sell slipcovers for Lazy Boy recliners and small problems with the upholstery may be easily fixed by purchasing a new slipcover. If the recliner you are considering purchasing already has a slipcover, be sure to remove it to see if the original upholstery is in good condition. Check with your local re-upholsterers to see if they can reupholster your recliner at a reasonable price. A used lazy boy recliner with a good frame and reclining mechanism may still be a bargain if you can get it reupholstered.

The backs on most lazy boy recliners can be removed for shipping purposes. The clips that hold the back in place may not be properly engaged on the recliner you are considering purchasing. Again this could be an easy fix if the seller is selling because they think the back is broken on their recliner.

Naturally you should beware of any recliner that shows signs of abuse or abnormal use, excessive soiling or improper cleaning or maintenance. If the recliner has been well cared for and you continue to maintain it then you may find a bargain out there that still has several years of use left.

Tony Barrett writes for Lazy Boy Recliners (http://www.lazy-boy-recliner.com) and provides information and reviews on Lazy Boy Furniture and Recliners as well as advice for maintenance and repairs. Click on http://www.lazy-boy-recliner.com if you are thinking about buying or selling a recliner, considering recliner slipcovers, or need advice on recliner cleaning, repairs or adjustments.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tony_Barrett

Posted by BigRussell |

11:53 AM

ATRIUM FABRIC...

Posted by BigRussell |

Atrium Fabric: a more Versatile, Durable and Stylish Outdoor Fabrics

Article by: seosyntacticsView PDF

The new challenge for the textile industry is to find a modern type of outdoor fabric that serves each individual needs on top of its core proposes. Consumers are now looking for outdoor fabrics that meet specific requirements and made from materials that can retain its vibrant colors for years even in the harshest sun.

Today hotel owners and other related businesses that uses outdoor fabrics said it is not enough to cover outdoor sofa, cushions and pillows with soft furnishing fabrics and stunning furniture fabrics that are used in dining rooms or windows. They need an outdoor fabric that can both offer elegance and can withstand outdoor activities.Due to the arising demand for such outdoor fabrics, Warwick Australia recently launches new outdoor fabric in the textile market to answer such needs. The new outdoor fabric is called the Atrium fabric.

This fabric is more versatile, durable, stylish and sophisticated. Atrium Outdoor fabrics are made with excellent features that fits the requirements of both the commercial and residential market. Atrium fabrics are ultra violet resistant; anti-microbial, mildew and stain resistant. These fabrics are developed with exceptional durability, easy to clean ability and with an environmentally-friendly manufacturing process.

The true performance of Atrium Fabrics can exceed the difficult requirements for hospitality or contract applications, surpass heavy-duty residential standards appropriate for both upholstery and drapery applications inside and out, which are also perfect for high usage areas in the family home. Not only that, Atrium outdoor fabric comes with a wide selection of stripes, solids, floral and texture.Warwick’s Atrium outdoor fabric is specially created for both indoor and outdoor markets. It is a technologically-advanced Aussie product developed to blend in any range of interior settings in a fashionable style with soft texture, high performance and durability.

Warwick Fabric is an Australian company that has been in the textile industry for decades now and has earned a reputation in creating innovative, practical, quality and stylish fabrics. They are the very first Australian company to receive the Queen’s Award for export achievement. They also give emphasis on creating quality fabrics such as interior fabrics, soft furnishing fabrics, age care fabrics, decorating fabrics, upholstery fabrics and focus on fabric innovation that ensure costumer satisfaction.You can visit Warwick’s Atrium outdoor fabric at http://www.warwick.com.au/fabric-finder_atrium outdoor.aspx.

About the Author

For quality decorating fabric.visit us online at www.warwick.com.au.

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