Why Leather Accreditation Matters in Upholstery and Restoration

1 October 2025

When it comes to restoring or upholstering furniture, leather is often the material of choice for its durability, elegance, and timeless appeal. But not all leather is created equal, and for discerning clients, leather accreditation is more than a label. It is a mark of quality, ethics, and trust.

What Is Leather Accreditation

Leather accreditation refers to certification systems that verify the origin, processing, and sustainability of leather products. These accreditations ensure that the leather used in furniture, fashion, and interiors meets rigorous standards for:

• Material quality such as grain, finish, and durability

• Environmental impact including responsible tanning and waste management

• Animal welfare through traceable sourcing and ethical farming

• Labour practices that support fair working conditions in production

Organisations like the Leather Working Group and OEKO-TEX Leather Standard are leading the way in promoting transparency and accountability across the leather supply chain.

Why It Matters for Clients

At Kendal Restoration, we believe that every detail matters, from the stitching on a vintage armchair to the ethics behind the materials we use. Leather accreditation offers peace of mind for clients who care about:

• Longevity: Accredited leather is tested for wear, tear, and UV resistance, ensuring your restored piece lasts for years

• Safety: Certified leather is free from harmful chemicals and meets strict safety standards, especially important for homes with children or pets

• Sustainability: Choosing accredited leather supports eco-conscious practices and reduces the environmental footprint of your restoration project

• Provenance: Accreditation provides traceability, so you know exactly where your leather came from and how it was processed

Accreditation vs Marketing Claims

It is easy to be swayed by terms like "genuine leather" or "eco-friendly finish," but without formal accreditation, these claims can be misleading. Leather accreditation cuts through the noise, offering verified assurance rather than vague promises.

Our Commitment at Kendal Restoration

We source leather from suppliers who meet recognised accreditation standards, ensuring every project reflects our commitment to quality, ethics, and craftsmanship. Whether you are restoring a family heirloom or commissioning a bespoke piece, we will guide you through fabric and leather choices with transparency and care.

Final Thoughts

Leather accreditation is not just a technicality. It is a reflection of values. For clients who want beauty without compromise, it is the difference between good and exceptional. At Kendal Restoration, we are proud to offer materials and methods that honour both tradition and responsibility.


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.
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.
by 0064775237 11 February 2025
Expert Furniture Restoration and Reupholstery in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire
Furniture restoration in St. Albans Reupholstery Royston
by 0064775237 11 October 2024
Expert Furniture Restoration and Reupholstery in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire
More posts