Getting Started With Upholstery
Cynthia Bleskachek
Class Preview
0:46
- In-depth Instruction; over 192 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Starting the Slip Seat
25:12
Meet upholstery instructor Cynthia Bleskachek and preview the essential skills you'll learn in class. Then, start reupholstering a slip seat! Discover which types of fabric work best for upholstery. Learn the proper technique for removing staples from furniture. Plus, get step-by-step instruction on measuring and cutting your new fabric.
Finishing the Slip Seat
24:18
Finish upholstering the slip seat from Lesson 1. Cynthia guides you through the process of positioning and tensioning fabric. See how to achieve smooth and even coverage as you upholster the curves and corners of the seat. You'll be amazed by the professional-looking results!
Starting the Side Chair
24:15
Take your skill set to the next level as you reupholster your first chair. In addition to getting tips on selecting an ideal chair for the project, Cynthia shares a trusty method for removing old fabric. You'll also learn how to accurately measure fabric for a cut list.
The Seat
23:22
Once you've torn off the old fabric, Cynthia shows you a simple, effective way to measure and cut out the new fabric. Practice basting the seat using Cynthia's tried-and-true techniques. Then, learn how to make easement cuts to position fabric around the chair's arm and back posts.
Seat Completion & Inside Back
36:15
Focus on upholstering the seat and inside back of the chair. Follow along as Cynthia demonstrates her technique for achieving evenly tensioned fabric in hard-to-reach areas. Worried you'll make a cutting error? Cynthia offers helpful tips and tricks to troubleshoot common problems.
Outside Back
36:01
Learn to upholster the outside back of the chair. You'll see how to create a clean edge using a cardboard tack strip. Then, Cynthia gives step-by-step instruction on padding the back with burlap and batting. Plus, practice closing up the sides with metal tack strips.
Finishing & Variations
22:26
Put the finishing touches on your chair by attaching the bottom cloth and covering visible staples. Want to personalize your chair even more? Cynthia shows you simple techniques for adding upholstery buttons and a lovely nailhead trim.
Bring your furniture back looking better than ever! Join upholstery professional Cynthia Bleskachek and learn how to reupholster a chair seat. During class, you’ll build a solid repertoire of techniques you can take into your future furniture-covering endeavors, practicing on a slip-seat and side chair along the way. Discover which types of fabric best fit your needs, the proper tools for the job and how to tear back old fabric for a fresh start. Cynthia will help you conquer corners and curves to get even coverage, and show you how to make precise relief cuts for smooth, pucker-free upholstery. Plus, you’ll install tack strips for clean edges, and learn to add designer details like buttons and nailhead trim!
Cynthia Bleskachek
Rejuvenating old furniture is Cynthia Bleskachek’'s passion. Growing up in her mother’'s home-based business, Cynthia developed a deep appreciation for the craft of upholstery. In 2001, she joined the Professional Upholsterers Association of Minnesota and began her own upholstery career. In 2015 she was a featured presenter at the Minneapolis Junk Bonanza and has spoken at many industry events. Today, you can find Cynthia working and teaching at her St. Paul shop, The Funky Little Chair.
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