BBC's 'The Repair Shop'

Influencing Trends in Furniture Restoration

Over the past few years, the BBC's television series 'The Repair Shop' has gained a huge following among viewers who are fascinated by the art of furniture restoration. The show features a team of skilled artisans who take their time to carefully examine each item and develop a restoration plan that will preserve its history and character. Like us they use traditional techniques and materials wherever possible, and the results are often breath-taking. As a result, the show has had a significant influence on trends in furniture restoration, inspiring a renewed interest in traditional techniques and craftsmanship.

'The Repair Shop' has helped to popularize the use of traditional restoration techniques. Rather than relying on modern methods and materials, the artisans on the show often use time-honoured methods such as hand-carving, gilding, and marquetry to restore antique and vintage pieces to their original condition. This has led to a renewed appreciation for the artistry and skill required to produce these pieces.

'The Repair Shop' has helped to promote is the idea of upcycling and repurposing. Many of the objects featured on the show are not only restored to their former glory but are also given a new lease on life by being repurposed into something entirely different. For example, an old wooden chest might be transformed into a stylish coffee table, or a set of vintage chairs might be reupholstered and given a new lease on life. This has helped to promote a more sustainable approach to furniture restoration, encouraging people to see the potential in old and discarded objects rather than simply throwing them away. We'd be delighted to help with your next project, simply fill in the contact form to get started.

Many of the people who bring their items to be restored have a deep emotional connection to them. The items often have sentimental value and seeing them restored to their former glory can be an emotional experience. As with the team at The Repair Shop we are always respectful of this emotional connection and takes great care to honour it.

'The Repair Shop' is an exceptional television program that is both entertaining and educational. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of skilled restoration and provides a heart-warming reminder of the value of cherished objects and the memories they hold. If you haven't seen it yet, I highly recommend checking it out!

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Framing the Unframeable: Shaped Mounts for Unusual Objects

by 0064775237 • 11 July 2025

Not everything fits inside a neat rectangle and at Kendals Framing , that’s exactly where the challenge (and the creativity) begins. Whether it’s a vintage tennis racket, a curved heirloom brooch, or a badge collection that sprawls in asymmetrical glory, our custom-shaped mounts are designed to cradle objects that defy convention. Framing Challenges We Solve Here are some examples of what we’re asked to frame and how shaped mounts bring them to life: Sports memorabilia : Football boots, tennis rackets, medals arranged in a dynamic arc Tools or instruments : Brass gauges, pliers, or watch parts in thematic layouts Fashion accessories : Necklaces or brooches styled in visual waves or clusters Historic artifacts : Keys, letters, coins or map fragments placed in layered storyboards These items often come with complex silhouettes , so standard mounts just won't do. We use CNC-guided cutting to create accurate contours or layered recesses, making sure each object feels intentionally placed — not forced in. How Shaped Mounting Works The process starts with a visual consultation. We assess the object's size, curvature, and desired orientation. Then: We digitise the object's outline to guide the cutting software Custom apertures are designed to complement both form and function Grooves or multi-layer structures are added if extra depth or support is needed Mountboard finishes are chosen to match the item’s tone — from subtle conservation-grade hues to bold accents for retail or branding impact When Function Meets Flair These frames are more than display cases — they’re storytelling devices. A well-shaped mount lets the item “breathe,” offering the right space around each edge while creating a visually balanced layout. And for high-value or fragile items, we incorporate invisible support structures or protective recesses that preserve integrity without compromising aesthetics.

Choosing the Perfect Fabric for Furniture Upholstery

by 0064775237 • 17 March 2025

When it comes to upholstering your furniture, the choice of fabric plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. At Kendals, we offer expert advice to help you select the perfect upholstery fabric that suits your style and needs. Understanding Fabric Types There are various fabric types to consider for furniture upholstery, each with its own unique characteristics. Here's a quick overview: Cotton: Known for its softness and breathability, cotton is a versatile choice for upholstery. It's available in a wide range of patterns and colours. Linen: A natural fibre that's durable and strong, linen offers a crisp, clean look. It's perfect for a light and airy feel. Velvet: Luxurious and plush, velvet adds a touch of elegance to any piece of furniture. It's ideal for creating a cosy and sophisticated atmosphere. Leather: Durable and timeless, leather upholstery is easy to clean and adds a classic touch to your furniture. Synthetic Fabrics: Materials like polyester and nylon are highly durable and stain-resistant, making them great for high-traffic areas. Considering Durability and Maintenance When choosing upholstery fabric, it's important to consider how the furniture will be used and maintained: High-Traffic Areas: For furniture in high-traffic areas, opt for durable and stain-resistant fabrics like synthetic blends or leather. Ease of Cleaning: Consider fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain, especially if you have pets or children. Fade Resistance: If your furniture will be exposed to direct sunlight, choose fade-resistant fabrics to maintain their colour and vibrancy. Matching Your Style Your choice of fabric should reflect your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your home: Traditional: Classic fabrics like velvet and damask add a touch of sophistication to traditional interiors. Modern: Sleek and minimalistic designs benefit from fabrics like linen and cotton in neutral tones. Eclectic: Mix and match patterns and textures to create a unique and vibrant look. Seeking Professional Advice At Kendals, our experts are here to help you make the best fabric choices for your furniture. We take into account your lifestyle, preferences, and the specific needs of each piece and with more than 200 sample books from over 20 suppliers to browse at our showroom you can ensure a perfect match. Choosing the right fabric for furniture upholstery can elevate the look and feel of your home. Trust Kendals to provide expert guidance and high-quality upholstery services.