Specialist upholstery tools checklist

In addition to the basic tools covered in the previous blog and video, an upholsterer regularly needs a selection of pins, needles and finishing tools. Many of these are specific to the upholstery and not found in your normal hardware store. Here, I introduce you to the main items and what they are called.

I’ve also included a handy checklist below: 

• Curved needles – Essential for bridle ties, creating rolled edges  & hand-stitching. They come in different sizes to suit each stage.

• Spring needle- slightly curved with wider end to get through the webbing

• Double ended needle- Secures first stuffing in place and come in different sizes with points at both ends but only one eye

• Gimp Pins & Tacks – For securing materials and fabric

• Punch- flat edge to put against tack as decent hammering point 

• Regulator – My favourite tool! It helps position and ‘regulate’ your stuffings like horsehair or fibre smoothly into place

• Dust mask-Stripping off old fabric can be dusty so protect yourself

• Safety glasses- protect your eyes from sharp flying tacks & staples when removing them from the old frame

• Strong steel pins- won’t bend and can hold the fabric firm

• Upholstery skewers- stronger than pins andhelp secure fibres in place

P.S. If you can’t wait to get started on your project and want to have all the tools ready CLICK HERE