10 Things to Consider When Ordering Custom Upholstery

04 Aug.,2025

 

10 Things to Consider When Ordering Custom Upholstery

Hello and happy Monday! How was everyone’s weekend? I had a fabulous time celebrating my birthday (thank you so much for the well wishes), and my mindset is fully focused on the holidays ahead now. Ha! Today I wanted to talk about the fun topic of custom upholstery. Having just ordered my custom daybed for my office, I referred Jordan to the local company I used. Obviously you know she moved into her home a couple months ago and is working to furnish it. Given the crazy lead times at big box stores for semi custom pieces, she decided to use the same company I hired for my daybed. She’ll be ordering a sofa for her living room and I’ve been sharing all of my upholstery knowledge with her. If you’re making a big upholstery purchase or are considering a custom sofa, sectional or chair, this post should be helpful! Click through for 10 things to consider when ordering custom upholstery. There’s more to know than you might expect! I hope this proves to be your handy guide. 

With competitive price and timely delivery, Zuohui sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

1: Sourcing

Honestly, the most difficult thing about ordering custom upholstery is finding a quality source. You can work with a designer who can help with the entire process, you can find a local company to bring your vision to life, or you can take the semi-custom route with a larger retailer. After ordering my daybed from One Kings Lane and having so many issues, I was thrilled to find a good local source I can use for future projects! I’d much rather support a business in my community anyway, and it’s easier to work together in person. If you’re able to find a local furniture maker or person who reupholsters, by all means- take that route! I promise the end result will be better and the process will be easier.

2: Dimensions

Nailing down the dimensions requires a bit of planning, but will result in a sofa or piece of furniture that fits the needs of your family. Emmett and I are average height so we don’t require extra deep seats. Take into consideration how you will use your furniture and who will be using it. My advice to Jordan was to sit on a bunch of sofas and see what feels best. She has been bopping around to different retailers testing sofas, even though she is taking the custom route. That’s really the best way to determine what you like since you’re building your furniture from scratch. Jordan and her husband are tall, so they’ll probably end up with a seat height that is a bit higher than what Emmett & I would select. Be sure to record the following measurements that feel best for you…

  • seat height
  • seat depth
  • arm height
  • back height

This also doesn’t have to reflect your size or height… it could just be your personal preference. Do you like to curl up on your sofa- feet tucked onto the seat? Do you enjoy when your feet can easily touch the floor? Consider these things when nailing down your dimensions. The scale of your room will also play a big factor in the size of your furniture!

3: Cushions

The next critical decision is the way the sofa or chair sits. I like a soft seat that you can sink into, but I also don’t love the maintenance that comes with a primarily down sofa- like the beloved Cloud by Restoration Hardware. It has down feathers seat cushions with 50 / 50 down-poly blend back cushions. While super soft and sinkable, that ratio can look sloppy if you’re not into the idea of fluffing your pillows before and after each use. It’s just a little too casual for my aesthetic, but I do love the way down cushions sit, so my preferred cushion is usually 90% feather / 10% down, and I typically prefer a wrapped foam core… just so the cushions hold their shape better and require less maintenance. I usually ask for a high-resiliency core wrapped in a jacket of my preferred feather & down ratio. It gives me that cloud-like, sink into the seat feel without constant fluffing. I also like a channeled back cushion core that helps down from settling over time… the back cushions just retain their shape better. Every sofa has a tag under the seat cushion that will read what the sofa is constructed of- it even shares the down & feather content, poly blend, type of foam, type of frame, etc. See what feels best to you and remember what that particular sofa or seat was comprised of. You can also begin to tell the different between different seats once you know what it’s made of!

4: Fabric

Selecting fabric is the fun part of the process- or at least my favorite part. Another advantage to working with a local company is browsing their fabric books in person. The fabrics at the top of my list are usually natural materials, like cotton, linen, wool- or a performance fabric like Crypton. For my daybed I just had made, I opted for Crypton because I know our dogs will be hanging out with me in my office and if I’m being honest- the daybed will probably turn into their glorified dog bed. Hah! The truth hurts. Anyway, I wanted something that was stain resistant and that would withstand the pups, so I opted for a performance fabric.

5: Leg Style

When designing custom furniture, that means you get to choose EVERY little detail- including the leg or foot style. You can choose the overall style and then go into great depth, adding as much detail as you please. I’d recommend doing some quick searches or buying a book on furniture styles to help you see what the options are- because believe me when I say, there are a lot. From cabriole legs to straight reeded legs and tapers to twists or clawfeet, the possibilities are truly endless. You can also consider having casters installed at the bottom of the legs! I always love a classic english caster, and they make moving furniture a breeze.

6: Arm Style

Similar to leg style, you’ll also need to nail down the arm style… which personally, I think is an easier decision because there are a few less options. The classic or most common arm styles include the following:

  • sloped arm
  • english (or rolled) arm
  • curved arm
  • square (or track) arm
  • swoop arm
  • paneled arm
  • sock arm
  • pleated arm
  • shelter arm
  • key arm
  • track or dual track arm
  • ledge arm
  • ruched arm
7: Fabric Details

There are also an array of fabric details you can choose from, that really can add a nice finishing, tailored touch! This is another one of my personal favorite parts of the process- be sure to consider adding any of the following to your cushions or upholstered frame:

  • a piped edge
  • a knifed edge
  • a flange edge
  • an appliqué or trim border detail (you know I’m partial to greek key)
  • a slipcover (for functionality and aesthetics)
  • nailheads
8: Wood Details

Just like the fabric details, you’re also able to choose your wood preferences. If your sofa has wood legs, wood details on the arms, or a plinth base, you can also customize a stain color, specify the wood species you’d like, and confirm what the inner frame will be made of. My preference is always kiln-dried hardwood!

9: Additional Cushions

Something you may not think to have made are additional cushions. Since you’re having a piece of furniture custom made, you’ll be able to have extras constructed to match exactly. There is nothing I love more than a monochromatic moment or cohesive seating look! Be sure to consider additional bolsters, or custom sized pillows in the same fabric for a super tailored and designerly look. It will be much less expensive and easier than trying to buy cushions after the fact. It’s always a great way to incorporate that same fabric into another area in the same room… toss a pillow onto a lounge chair that matches the sofa you just had made. Having that cohesive element is really a nice thread of consistency.

10: Pricing

The last point I want to discuss is the hot topic of cost. Custom furniture can be really expensive (I think the word “custom” automatically gives people sticker shock) or it can actually be pretty reasonable… seriously! It totally depends on what exactly you want. Fabric selection always highly influences the cost. The same style sofa in two different fabrics can be thousands of dollars apart. My best advice? Tell your furniture maker what your budget is, be upfront, and ask them to show you fabrics and finishes within your price range. I went in to buy my daybed, rattled off exactly what I wanted (without sharing my budget), landed on a Crypton fabric right away (a more expensive fabric), and was pleasantly surprised that my cost was slightly LESS than what I was going to pay for a super similar daybed from One Kings Lane. Jordan (who is very smart) went into the same shop, shared her budget, her vision, and asked if they could make it work- and of course they said yes. Being honest and straightforward helps manage expectations on both ends- it also saves both parties time. My point? Follow Jordan’s lead in this scenario, rather than my own. It somehow worked out for me, but I should have known to share my budget up front… then again, I was also pretty desperate and was willing to pay a hefty amount. Hah!

Was that an insane amount of information? I hope I didn’t overwhelm you! My goal was to help you consider every last detail if you’re planning to invest in custom furniture someday. It can get expensive, and it’s important to ideate and communicate EXACTLY what you’d like for the best outcome. Definitely pin this post for later, that way if the time comes- you’ll be armed with knowledge and ready to make the fun design decisions. I hope it was helpful! Hit me with any questions in the comment section below and have a wonderful week, friends.

Types of Upholstered Chairs | Keekea

Despite the fact that upholstered chairs can be found in a dizzying array of designs and sizes, each and every one of them was created with one thing in mind: their level of comfort. There is a wide variety of styles available to choose from when it comes to upholstered chairs, and each one has its own individual set of characteristics that distinguish it from the others. 

There are chairs that have padded seats and backs, and there are chairs that have built-in mechanics that allow them to recline. There are also chairs available that come with ottomans that have the capability of being detached and used as additional seating or used on their own as a footrest.

We are going to have a look at all of the various types of upholstered chairs, such as wingback chairs, club chairs, and recliners. These chairs come in a wide variety of styles and configurations.

Mid-Century Upholstered Chairs

Mid-century furniture eschewed the complex and extravagant patterns that had been used for decades. American and European furniture designers were motivated by newfound minimalism. Having out-of-date chairs in the home became abruptly unfashionable. 

During the postwar era, which witnessed a rise in the mass production of household goods, many furniture items could be produced at a rapid speed compared to prior times.

Many designers of the mid-century favored creating chairs that combined form and function. Previously, physical appearance was emphasized. The modernist furniture movement ushered in a new era of clean, utilitarian design paired with a streamlined, eye-catching look.

This chair is perfect for an office waiting room since it offers guests a stylish and comfortable place to sit while they wait to see the boss. The robust and comfy curved leather seat is excellent for use at home or in the office. 

The stainless steel footrest with its high polish adds a touch of sophistication, while the high backrest provides additional support. The cloth is available in numerous colors and designs, including a fashionable plaid.

Main Features:

  • Padded Backrest

Mid-century modern upholstered chairs are often equipped with a padded backrest, which is an essential component of this type of chair.

  • Padded Seat

It is not uncommon for this type of chair to feature a generously-sized padded seat, which is another trait that is characteristic

  • Rolled Arm

If they are looking to purchase a mid-century modern upholstered chair, then they should also be looking for a chair that includes a rolled arm, which is also an essential element of this type of chair.

Pros

  • Simple
  • Clean
  • Iconic Design

Best Product for Mid-Century Upholstered Chairs

There are a lot of products to choose from, but this one product stands out from the rest, so let’s see if it really is the best.

Pale Taupe Dining Chairs

This Keekea chair is the epitome of comfort and sophistication all rolled into one. The furniture’s mid-century style will lend an air of elegance to any space, and the upholstery material will ensure that they remain at ease even after sitting for long periods of time. Whether they use it at home or in the office, this chair is likely to become a favorite of theirs in no time!

This chair is perfect for anyone who wants to add a touch of mid-century modern style to their home. The pale taupe upholstery is soft and comfortable, and the chair is easy to assemble.

Traditional Upholstered Chairs

Traditional upholstered chairs are chairs with a traditional upholstery design. Frequently, they are constructed of wood with a leather or cloth covering. They can be utilized to create a conventional or formal appearance and are appropriate for usage at home or in the workplace.

Main Features:

Traditional upholstered chairs are distinguished from other types of chairs by a variety of distinguishing traits. They may be adorned with ornate motifs and feature a high back and plush cushions. Because they are typically quite durable, they are perfect for usage at home or in the workplace.

Want more information on Hot Sale Upholster Chair? Feel free to contact us.

Classic upholstered chairs are perfect for creating a formal or traditional atmosphere in the home or business. Additionally, they are great for anyone who requires a durable chair for daily usage.

Pros

  • They come in a variety of shapes
  • Available in a range of prices
  • Comfortable

Modern/Contemporary Upholstered Chairs

Modern upholstered chairs stand out due to their sleek lines and modest design. This chair looks wonderful in any contemporary context and can be dressed up or down according to their preferences. This chair style is currently one of the most popular on the market. Chair design has improved substantially in recent years. A modern upholstered chair is undoubtedly the way to go if they are seeking a versatile piece of furniture that will bring beauty to their house.

A contemporary upholstered chair will look fantastic in any contemporary decor. It is a trendy and comfy piece of furniture with multiple functions. This chair is perfect for reading, watching television, and working on a computer. It is perfect for relaxing after a long day.

Pros

  •  Improved substantially
  • Trendy
  • Comfy
  • Good for relaxation

Best Product for Modern/Contemporary Upholstered Chairs

Olivine Dining Arm Chairs

The Keekea Olivine Dining Arm Chairs are the ideal sleek and contemporary dining chairs. These seats are not only fashionable but also exceptionally comfortable and adjustable. They would look fantastic in any dining room or conference room, and they would be ideal for any residence or business.

These attractive chairs are crafted from durable materials, assuring their longevity. In addition, they are unupholstered, making them suited for any interior design or environment.

Coastal Upholstered Chairs

There is a wide variety of seating options available for personal usage in the house. Some people would rather sit in an upholstered chair, while others would rather have one made of wood. In their homes, certain individuals have dreamed of having a chair with a nautical or beachy motif. 

This unpadded chair typically comes in the form of a wooden structure and has an aesthetic that is influenced by coastal design. The majority of the time, they can find these seats in homes that are located near the water or in other coastal places.

The coastal upholstered chair is an excellent choice for an unupholstered chair in their living room. It has a casual yet elegant appearance that will go with any decor. The chair is also very comfortable and ideal for unwinding in.

Pros

  • Elegant looking chair
  • Comfy
  • Sturdy
  • Made from a High class materials

Industrial Upholstered Chairs 

This kind of chair, which does not have padding, is frequently seen in business and industrial environments. In addition to being more practical and long-lasting than standard upholstered seats, it also costs less. 

There is a wide selection of chair shapes and dimensions available for use in industrial settings, and each chair can be tailored to the specific requirements of the person sitting in it. They are typically built of steel or other robust materials, which makes them an excellent choice for usage in regions that see a lot of foot traffic.

Industrial upholstered chairs are ideal for people looking for a unique, fashionable, and comfortable chair. This type of unpadded chair is appropriate for both the home and the workplace. Because they come in a variety of colors and styles, they can find the perfect one to match their decor. 

Pros

  • Appropriate for both the home and the workplace
  • They can choose  a variety of colors
  • Long-lasting

Best Product For Industrial Unpholstered Chairs

Leather Dining Chairs by Keekea

Any house with an industrial aesthetic would benefit greatly from the addition of the Keekea leather dining seats. The top-grain leather and stainless steel that are used in the construction of these chairs give them a contemporary look while also making them quite durable. They are also quite comfy, making them an excellent choice for any dinner party or family get-together they can think of.

Boho/Bohemian Upholstered Chairs

This style of unupholstered chair is distinguished by its comfortable and frequently colorful upholstery. Bohemian upholstered chairs are commonly found in living rooms and bedrooms, and they can add a unique touch to any space. While there are numerous styles of bohemian upholstered chairs, the most popular designs feature brightly colored fabrics with intricate patterns.

This type of unupholstered chair is ideal for anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind look in their home. Bohemian upholstered chairs are available in a variety of styles, allowing them to select the one that best suits their personality. They’re also extremely comfortable, allowing them to unwind in style.

Pros

  • Brighly colored
  • Best for living rooms
  • Extremely Comfy
  • High-quality materials 

Rustic Country/Farmhouse Style Upholstered Chairs

This style of unupholstered chair is ideal for those looking to create a welcoming atmosphere in their home. These chairs perfectly reflect the rustic country farmhouse style, which is all about comfort and simplicity. 

They are made of wood and have a straightforward, unadorned design. Depending on their preferences, the upholstery can be plain or patterned. They would look great in a restaurant, living room, or bedroom.

The main characteristics of this chair are its unupholstered seat and back, which give it a rustic appearance. It also has curved arms and legs that add to its rustic appeal.

Pros

  • Comfy
  • Simple
  • Can create a welcoming atmosphere at home
  • Best for dining room and living room

Get Stylish Upholstered Chairs for Your Business 

Before purchasing an upholstered chair, one must select between purchasing from a specialty retailer or an online furniture store. The following list includes establishments that sell upholstered chairs:

Keekea

Because of Keekea’s unyielding commitment to producing outstanding work, the company consistently outperforms all worldwide standards.

They place a significant amount of importance on the rate of return on their assets. Keekea is in an advantageous position, which enables the company to lower the prices of its tables and chairs while maintaining the same level of product quality.

It is possible for Keekea to get high-quality upholstered chairs in a timely manner and at an affordable price because to their supply chain, which comprises facilities both upstream and downstream of their site. Everyone who makes use of their low-cost fabric chairs and services has the opportunity to raise their profit margins.

Made-in-China.com

Aesthetics and durability combine to make our upholstered office chairs a hot commodity in today’s market. They are China’s leading upholstered furniture manufacturer and wholesaler.

Made-in-china is a professional platform for worldwide buyers to make their own upholstered chairs or buy them from China. 

Amazon

The best place to get upholstered office furniture for a business is Amazon.com. There are a plethora of color and design options to choose from. In addition, orders of $35 or more are eligible for free delivery.

Amazon’s return policy is much better. Customers have 15 calendar days from the date of delivery to return an unsatisfactory product. All buyers will receive a refund for their initial shipping costs.

Alibaba

Alibaba, one of the largest online merchants in the world, is renowned for carrying a vast selection of upholstered chairs. Additionally, they have a vast inventory of things that can be sold simultaneously.

Examine the available furnishings and select the desired pieces.

Furniture Trade Shows

If the company requires upholstered furnishings, various trade shows should be contacted. Trade exhibitions are excellent venues for discovering novel products. These events may be a good place to find goods that complement the current style.

At these events, anyone can network with potential manufacturers and produce new product ideas. This makes purchasing the product significantly simpler than it would be otherwise.

For more Plastic Outdoor Furniture Manufacturersinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Conclusion