Preservation for the Next Generation with Antique Restoration

Whether you are a collector, a homeowner with a piece of antique furniture passed down through the generations, or simply someone who has come across a unique and interesting piece second hand, restoring an antique piece can breathe new life into it and give it a new place in your home or collection.

Before we begin any restoration project, it is important to consider the condition of the piece and the extent of the work that needs to be done. Some pieces may only need a light cleaning and a coat of wax, while others may require extensive repairs or even complete rebuilding. We can assess the piece and provide an estimate for the work that needs to be done.

A thorough cleaning is often the first step in bringing furniture back to life. Dirt, grime, and years of neglect can take a toll on a piece. For most pieces, a gentle cleaning with a mild soap and warm water will do the trick. However, some pieces may require more specialised cleaning methods, such as using a mild acid solution to remove tarnish from metal hardware.

An important aspect of antique furniture restoration is repair. Some pieces may need only minor repairs, such as replacing a missing knob or patching a small hole in a piece of veneer. Others may require more extensive repairs, such as rebuilding a broken leg or replacing a missing piece of a piece's structure. It is vital to consult a professional who has experience with antique furniture restoration.

Finally, we must consider the finish of the piece. Many antique pieces have a beautiful patina that develops over time, and it is important to preserve that patina if possible. For pieces that are in good condition, a light coat of wax may be all that is needed to bring out the beauty of the wood. For pieces that are in need of more extensive restoration, it may be necessary to strip the finish and apply a new finish.

Antique furniture restoration can help preserve the beauty and craftsmanship of older pieces. Whether you are a collector, a homeowner, or simply someone who has come across a unique piece, restoring an antique piece can breathe new life into it and give it a new place in your home or collection. Always consult a professional conservator or restorer, we can assess the piece and provide an estimate for the work that needs to be done. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy your antique piece for years to come.

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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.