CHI Good Questions: Good Upholsterer?

Eric send us an email: "Hello all! I am new to Chicago and I am in desperate need of an affordable upholsterer. I have this fabulous pair of wing back chairs, which are in dire need of a modern update. I have already received a upholstery quote of $1500. This is way too high for me! I was looking for an experienced upholsterer who offers reasonable rates! Any help? Any suggestions?"

(Note: Include a pic of your problem and your question gets posted first.
Email questions and pics with QUESTIONS in subject line to:
chicago(at)apartmenttherapy(dot)com)

Welcome to Chicago, Eric! Here are a few posts and comment threads from the past that can get you started:
Good Questions: Mid C Upholstery & Restoration
Good Questions: What are Some Experiences with Reupholstering?
Good Questions: Upholsterer Selling Kravet?
Mike and Mindy's Chair Rescue

But we are hoping our readers will share some suggestions - if you can recommend a good upholsterer please let Eric know in the comments below...

Comments (9)

That's an awesome chair as-is...

posted by bepsf on May 30th 2008 at 12:41pm
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Is that $1500 per chair, or for both? This place was recently profiled in a local mag, but I don't have any direct experience with them.

http://romann-custom.com/

posted by maggieann on May 30th 2008 at 12:44pm
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Having a piece of furniture reupholstered is no different than having a custom gown made. Each piece of fabric has to be cut and fitted and sewn together. If the fabric has a pattern, it needs to be cut exactly so that the pattern works together across the entire piece. Your quote may be higher because you are using a patterned fabric or because they have assumed you are using a patterned fabric. If you are using a solid, no repeat fabric, be sure to mention it or show them a sample of the fabric you want to use. In the absence of information, they will assume the worst and your quote might be higher than it needs to be.

posted by RichardinLA on May 30th 2008 at 3:44pm
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Call Alberto Sanchez- he's awesome.
He's a little outta the way but he can come and take a look to give you an estimate.
It helps if you speak Spanish- but he's fully fluent.

He did my 1st Chair I designed back in '93- and I've been pleased with his work and smile- ever since.
773.804.9756

posted by ManofSteel on May 30th 2008 at 4:14pm
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You could try Superior Custom Upholstery. They do work for several of the Merchandise Mart showrooms. They're not cheap, but I'm almost positive they would be less than $1,500.

By the way - great room!

posted by katedoo on May 30th 2008 at 4:56pm
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Call Larry at Royal Upholstery in Racine, WI. I have used them several times and have recommended to many friends. Impeccable work and a good price.

posted by avimom on May 30th 2008 at 5:46pm
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James at Superior Custom Upholstery. Tell him Heather sent you from Off The Bolt! He does FANTASTIC WORK, been written up in Chicago Magazine. And, his prices are fair. 773-261-6600

posted by PlanItGirl on May 30th 2008 at 6:09pm
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Great room, i love it! Where's that console from?

posted by bloobrey on May 31st 2008 at 2:16am
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This is the second time that Alberto Sanchez' name has come up a great upholsterer; I'm definitely going to give him a call.

posted by face beater on September 12th 2009 at 1:04am
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