How to Configure a Sectional Sofa
Sectional – or modular – sofas offer multiple advantages: contemporary allure aside, they are versatile and space-saving. Comprised of two or more separate parts, sectional sofas can be configured in a variety of ways.
Here are a few ideas on how to arrange your sectional sofa:
- Straight
- L-shaped
- Horseshoe
- Octagonal
- Equiangular
- Separate into different rooms
- Maximize space by fitting pieces into formerly unused corners
- Combine different colour pieces – play with different fabrics on separate pieces
- Remove arms (if model allows) to create a chaise or a one-arm couch
Leather Tanning Techniques
Vegetable tanning uses organic materials such as bark, leaves, or wood instead of conventional chemicals. Each natural ingredient individually affects the leather’s colour, tone, and firmness. Vegetable-tanned leather features greater body and firmness than traditionally-tanned leather.
Mineral tanning uses several mineral substances, notably the salts of chromium, aluminum, and zirconium, resulting in a strong, almost white hide with a tight grain pattern.
Chromium tanning is the most popular method of tanning. Chromium sulphate is used to produce a “wet-blue” hide that ultimately results in soft, mellow upholstery leather.
Oil tanning uses oils and fatty substances to replace the natural moisture of the original hide, resulting in very soft, pliable leather.
How to Extend the Life of Sofa Cushions
Choose cushions made of durable, stain-resistant fabric.
Fluff often, especially if used regularly.
Rotate once a month or so.
Vacuum weekly.
Use cushion covers that slip easily on and off for regular washing.
Shoo pets off the couch!
Avoid eating and drinking on or near the cushions.
Full Grain vs. Top Grain: What’s the Difference?
While many people believe that Top Grain leather is indeed the “top” when it comes to quality, they are mistaken. The highest quality leather is Full Grain, with Top Grain coming in a close second. The reason for this goes back to the animal itself: if the original hide is free of imperfections, it can be used as Full Grain leather. If the hide is damaged by insect bites, branding, barbed wire scratches, etc., then it will be require alteration - in the form of sanding or shaving - to remove the damage. The surface is then embossed with a uniform “grain” and becomes Top Grain leather, less susceptible to minor damage and generally less expensive than Full Grain leather.
Organic vs Non-Organic Natural Fabric
Natural fabric isn’t necessarily “green”. Although natural fibres may derive from a renewable resource, if they aren’t certified as organic, they may have pesticide residues or may have been manufactured or treated with chemicals.
Fabric Cost Factors
The cost of your furniture fabric isn’t necessarily just a question of whether it is synthetic or natural: factors such as fabric design, quality of fibre, manufacturing processes, exclusivity and type of fabric all contribute to the cost of the fabric.
The Comfort of Natural Fabric
Natural fabrics such as leather are considered to be the most comfortable because they “breathe”. Natural fabrics feel warm in the winter and cool in the summer and actually adjust to your body temperature.
Solid Wood vs Veneer
Both are good, it just depends on what you are looking for. A veneer is simply a thin layer of wood chosen for its beauty and character that is glued or bonded to another wood surface. This not only increases the strength of the material, but also allows for surface patterns or designs that would otherwise be impossible. Modern furniture is often a combination of solid woods and veneers for these very reasons. The combination prevents the warping and splitting that can occur when solid wood expands and contracts with humidity.
Thread Counts
A fabric’s thread count indicates the strength of the fabric, so if you are looking for durable fabric, go with a high thread count.
Cotton
Cotton is a natural fibre that provides good resistance to wear, fading and pilling, but is less resistant to soiling and wrinkling. If you are looking for family-friendly fabric, you may want to opt for a cotton blend with a stain-resistant finish.
Microfibre
Microfibre is a synthetic upholstery fabric with a velvety-soft feel that is rapidly gaining popularity. Made from ultra-fine polyester fibres, it offers good value, quality, durability and ease of care.
Not All Leather Is the Same
When it’s time to clean your leather furniture, treat each piece independently unless they’re from a complete set. What works for one chair may not work for another, especially if the leathers have different grains or come from different manufacturers.