In today’s world of furniture shopping, it’s easy to head to the local big box store and pick up some bar stools or a dining table for your new home. Everywhere you look it seems someone is selling something for your new place, and they all make it so convenient. The items are in stock and are usually pretty inexpensive. But, they are also mass produced and sold everywhere. The next store has the same bar stools as does the next one after that. Which means your neighbors may have them too; so much for individuality and a space “all your own” right?
That’s not the case with us. We pride ourselves on quality furniture. We cherish companies that make handcrafted, individual pieces per customers’ specifications. We love that furniture from our little showroom on Main St. is noteworthy and unlike anything else on the market. And, we love that bar stools or any furniture purchased from us is guaranteed to stand the test of time because of the exceptional craftsmanship found in all the products we carry.
Because of this, we wanted to share how many of our manufacturers make their products – specifically chair bottoms – and it all starts with the strength, durability and craftsmanship that’s on the inside.
Most quality companies, American Leather, Lee Industries, Vanguard Furniture (just to name a few we carry) utilize what is called “webbed seating” in each chair or sofa. Webbing in furniture refers to a strong woven fabric that is laced in multiple directions and intertwined with metal at the base of the seat deck (seat bottom) to support the seat cushion and enhance the seat’s durability and elasticity. Once in place, most manufacturers then build into the frame what is known as the eight way hand tie to increase the seat’s strength. In short, the eight way hand tie is where a series of coils are tied together (by hand) from front to back, side to side and diagonally eight times. The upholstery or seat cushion then sits on top of the coils creating the finished product.
If done correctly, you should be able to feel the coils in the upholstery when pushed upon and feel them spring back into place when pressure is relieved. In the furniture industry, this construction method is often believed to provide the most comfort and durability as it allows for no wear and tear on the chair frame and is designed to keep the coils in place. It prevents the foundation of the chair from wearing thus giving you a lifetime of support.
Should you find yourself shopping for a chair or sofa at a different store, check the quality of the seat by pressing on the cushion. If you don’t feel the coils underneath, you can be assured that the construction of the chair is not made in this traditional fashion and thus is not top tier quality. For a more permanent option, search for chairs with webbing, hand ties and coils as these chairs will not lose their comfort or luster in time. Or better yet, stop by our showroom and allow us to explain further and point you in the right direction. Quality furniture in your home will last longer, look better, and be more comfortable than most furniture mass produced and sold by the big box stores. Don’t be fooled by the cheap prices. Remember the saying “you get what you pay for.”
Photos courtesy of Lee Industries