Upholstery FAQ's
Q: Can I have my favorite chair done in leather?
A: Absolutely! Leather is a great choice, and Beach Boy Upholstery has an incredible selection of the finest leathers available. We offer natural grains, aniline dyed colors, and even woven, embossed, and perforated leathers.
Q: Can I change the look of my furniture?
A: Yes! In addition to the new fabric, we can alter the style of most pieces to give you an updated, modern look.
Q: If I already have my own fabric, can you still reupholster my furniture?
A: Yes, as long as the fabric is suitable for the job. There may be a small additional charge for this service.
Q: How much variance can you expect from the leather swatch to final finished product?
A: Although a sample cutting represents the color, texture and feel of the leather, it will likely not be an exact match to the furniture the customer receives. Variations are due to the fact that the leather is a natural product with unique characteristics that differ from hide to hide and from sections of the same hide.
Q: What type of variations can I expect?
A: Color variations occur in aniline leathers. Since no pigments are used in the dying process, each hide will absorb dye in varying amounts, and thus be darker or lighter in some areas than others.
Color variations do not affect Corrected Leather because a topical protection of color is applied directly to the hide. Occasionally the swatch of the corrected leather may vary slightly from the finished product due to handling and age or a slightly different formula used to create the color. The swatch chosen by the customer is carefully matched by computer and checked to ensure that it meets quality control guidelines for color.
Natural hallmarks may be visible including healed scars, fat and neck wrinkles, insect bites, etc. The grain and other natural markings are not flaws but are characteristic of fine leather and part of its appeal.
Q: How should I generally care for my leather furniture?
A: Keep furniture dust and dirt free. Dusting and occasional
vacuuming with a soft brush will prevent dirt and dust from being ground
into the leather. Keep furniture out of direct sunlight to limit fading
and dryness. Humidify in a dry climate to prevent dryness which can
cause leather to crack. Deal with spills and soil gently (don't rub or
scrub), and as soon as possible. It's important to blot spills, instead
of trying to rub or scrub them away. Always use a clean cloth or sponge
to clean up spills. If necessary, use clean lukewarm water only and let
dry naturally. Product variations may require special care instructions.
Please refer to these in each item description.
Q: How do you calculate how much leather will be needed for a project?
A: Unlike fabric which is measured in yards of various width, leather is measured in square feet. You can assume you need 18 square feet of leather per upholstery yard equivalent. Assuming that the width of standard upholstery fabric is 54", the square foot equivalent is 13.5. Because leather is sold in irregularly shaped hides, a waste factor has to be added. The industry standard is 25% waste in cutting. (13.5 ÷ .75 = 18) Leather is sold on a square foot basis in whole hide quantities. Each hide varies in its overall shape, size and dimension. The average sofa requires 200 square feet.