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Workshop
The Art of Colonial Upholstery: Renewing a Dining Chair
Luis Mendoza
Master Upholsterer
In our family workshop in the Villa El Salvador Industrial Park, every project is a story. Today we share the process of renewing a colonial-style dining chair, a job that combines our passion for wood carpentry and chair upholstery.
Materials Used
- Wood: Reclaimed pine, sanded and treated.
- Varnish: Satin finish to enhance the natural grain.
- Upholstery Fabric: Beige damask, durable and classic.
- Padding: High-density foam and batting.
- Hardware: Brass screws and nails.
Process Steps
- Disassembly and Evaluation: The chair is completely disassembled to inspect the structure.
- Sanding and Repair: The wood is sanded to remove imperfections and minor cracks are repaired.
- Varnishing: Three coats of varnish are applied, with light sanding between each.
- Cutting and Sewing: The fabric is cut and sewn following the original pattern of the seat and back.
- Final Upholstery: The padding is placed and the fabric is secured with staples and decorative tacks.
- Assembly: All pieces are joined back together, checking for stability.
The result is a piece that recovers its classic essence, ready to be the centerpiece of a home dining room. At Edison Chair we believe the value lies in preserving craftsmanship and adapting it to modern life.
"True quality is not in what is new, but in what is well made. A chair restored with care can last for generations."