Business Details
11 Years
experience
Expert Upholstery Services in Dunfermline
Porcupine Upholstery was founded in 2015 by Paula Graham, a qualified upholsterer through the Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishings. Our studio in Dunfermline, Fife, specialises in restoring pre-1950s furniture using traditional techniques while meeting modern fire safety standards. We combine expertise in horsehair padding, webbing repair, and Martindale-tested fabrics to ensure durability. Our bespoke service caters to chairs, footstools, and custom commissions, offering fabric consultations to match clients' interiors. We also provide hands-on upholstery classes, from one-day footstool workshops to eight-week courses, fostering a community of craft enthusiasts. Sustainability drives our work, rescuing heirlooms and discarded pieces to extend their lifespan by decades.Clients benefit from our meticulous attention to detail, whether repairing broken frames or creating statement furniture. Our studio at Fire Station Creative showcases reclaimed materials and iconic design, reflecting our commitment to quality and eco-conscious practices. With over a decade of experience in interior design and upholstery, we deliver tailored solutions for domestic and commercial settings. Every project undergoes rigorous quality checks, from calico lining to velvet or leather finishes, ensuring lasting satisfaction. Our trims, including braids and studs, add unique character to each piece, blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics.
Services
Upholstery
Furniture Restoration
Footstool Courses
Bespoke Commissions
Fabric Consultations
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- Established in 2015 with expertise in pre-1950s furniture restoration
- Uses Martindale-tested fabrics for superior durability
- Offers bespoke fabric consultations for tailored interiors
- Combines traditional techniques with modern eco-friendly practices
- Qualified upholsterers certified by the AMUSF
Associations and certifications
- Association of Master Upholsterers and Soft Furnishings (AMUSF)
What people say
Loved my Chair
Amazing
So satisfying
Unique pieces
Ideal gifts
Services
Upholstery
We restore chairs and stools using traditional horsehair padding and webbing techniques. Our process preserves structural integrity while updating fabrics to meet modern fire safety standards. Clients choose from wool, linen, or leather finishes for durable, aesthetically pleasing results.
Furniture Restoration
Specialising in pre-1950s wooden frames, we repair broken joints and sagging webbing. Our methods replicate original construction techniques, ensuring historical accuracy while enhancing usability. Every piece undergoes rigorous durability testing before return.
Footstool Courses
Hands-on classes teach traditional upholstery skills over one or two days. Participants create custom footstools using professional tools and materials. Courses include expert tuition, all necessary equipment, and refreshments for an immersive learning experience.
Bespoke Commissions
We create made-to-order furniture tailored to client specifications. From fabric selection to decorative trims, each piece combines functionality with unique design elements. Projects include dining chairs, bedroom furniture, and statement pieces for commercial spaces.
Fabric Consultations
Our experts guide clients through fabric choices suited to their environment. We recommend durable wool for high-traffic areas, luxury velvet for occasional use, and leather options compatible with furniture design for optimal aesthetic and practical outcomes.
People
Paula Graham
Proprietor & Lead Upholsterer
Paula established Porcupine Upholstery in 2015 after qualifying with AMUSF. With a background in interior design, she specialises in restoring antique furniture while teaching traditional upholstery skills to enthusiasts.
Questions
What types of furniture do you upholster?
We specialise in chairs and footstools but also handle bespoke commissions for dining furniture and bedroom pieces.
Do you offer upholstery classes for beginners?
Yes, our one-day and eight-week courses cater to all skill levels with expert tuition in a supportive environment.
How do you ensure fabric durability?
We use Martindale-tested fabrics rated for domestic or commercial use, ensuring long-lasting performance against wear and tear.
Can you restore heirloom furniture?
Yes, we repair pre-1950s pieces using traditional techniques while maintaining original construction methods and materials.
What payment options are available?
Course bookings require a deposit with full payment prior to commencement; bespoke commissions are invoiced individually.
Do you deliver finished pieces?
Bespoke footstools include mainland UK delivery; larger items require local collection or client-arranged transport.
