Uncommon Supplies (Day 9 of 31)

...and this is day 9 of the challenge, for all 31 days, go here

I got a question the other day about where to buy springs? I realized that I have not told you my most useful tip...

Go to the local, small shop, nice guy, upholsterer. Yup, believe it or not, It has been my experience that these type of places love (or find it majorly amusing) that a "mere mortal man/woman" is going to tackle such an artful, skillful, renaissance craft.

I have never had any of them refuse to sell me an odd-ball supply! In fact, I have only done it a few times, but in one case....he gave it to me for free! Don't expect it and always be prepared and offer to pay for an item. While you are there, you will almost always see an item being worked on....ask questions...tell him your concerns about how to handle a step....ask for advice on a specific issue.

This is my approach.....
I think I'm in over my head. My husband and I have a bet, he is sure that I cannot upholster this (show picture)___________before ____________. I know I could never do a job as professional as yours, but I really want try! I need a (show him item you need) ___________,will you sell me one?

Why would the local upholsterer be so kind and generous to someone who only wants to buy one small piece of High Density foam, a unique hinge, 22 inches of a tack strip.....he knows you will probably be back!Not back for more parts, but rather back for him to just finish the job, or better yet, give him your next job because you found this too hard and not worth the effort. By the way, if you do find it not worth the effort, at almost any point in the process you can hire a professional to finish it!

Tack Strip

For on-line sources, here are a few that I have either tried....or would definitely try.

DIY Upholstery Supply, use the phone number and call if you are not sure. Better yet, use the "ask the expert" option.

Gary's Upholstery Products, I have purchased from this site. The site takes a bit more clicking to figure out exactly what you are looking for, but has most everything.

Ebay, I have purchased staples from this ebay seller.

If you know of any other sources, I would love to hear about it. Hope to see you tomorrow!

Categories: 31 days , upholstery , upholstery class