Natural materials. Traditional methods. Furniture made to last.
At Swaethe Furniture, we believe that how a piece of furniture is upholstered is just as important as how it looks.
Our approach is rooted in traditional upholstery, using natural and recycled materials wherever they are appropriate. Rather than relying on layers of synthetic foam and chemically treated materials, we use materials chosen for their performance, durability, feel and environmental qualities.
Many of the pieces we restore were originally made using natural materials and traditional construction methods. Our aim is not simply to make old furniture look new, but to restore it thoughtfully while respecting the way it was originally made.
Coir is a natural fibre made from the husk of the coconut.
Strong, resilient and naturally breathable, coir has been used in traditional upholstery for generations. It provides structure and support within the upholstery while allowing air to circulate through the seat.
We use coir where appropriate as part of the traditional upholstery build-up, particularly in seats and other areas requiring resilience.
Where foam is appropriate, we use 100% natural latex foam.
Natural latex is produced from the sap of the rubber tree and provides a supportive, resilient and comfortable material for upholstery. Unlike conventional polyurethane foam, natural latex is derived from a renewable natural source.
Its resilience makes it particularly well suited to furniture that is intended to be used and enjoyed for many years.
Rubberised coir and hair combine natural fibres with a natural rubber binder to create a resilient upholstery material.
It can be used as a firm supporting layer within an upholstered seat or back, providing structure while retaining the characteristics of natural fibres.
Where suitable, we use non-FR rubberised coir and hair as part of our upholstery construction.
Wool is one of the most versatile natural fibres used in traditional upholstery.
It is resilient, breathable and naturally springy, making it particularly useful for creating comfortable upholstery layers. Wool can also help regulate moisture and temperature within the upholstery.
We use different grades and forms of wool depending on the requirements of each piece, from structural upholstery layers through to softer finishing layers.
Recycled felted wool provides a useful way of incorporating reclaimed natural fibre into the upholstery process.
It can be used as a protective and cushioning layer between the upholstery structure and finishing fabric, helping to create a smooth, durable finish.
Using recycled wool allows us to make use of existing fibre resources rather than relying solely on newly produced materials.
We use a premium wool, silk and cashmere blend as a skin wadding.
This fine natural layer sits beneath the finishing fabric and helps create the smooth, refined appearance associated with high-quality traditional upholstery.
We use it throughout our upholstery where appropriate, ensuring that the quality of the finished piece is matched by the quality of the materials and construction beneath the surface.
Hessian, also known as jute, is a natural plant fibre traditionally used in upholstery.
Its strength and open weave make it particularly useful for supporting upholstery materials and securing elements of traditional upholstery construction.
We use it where appropriate as part of the structural layers within a piece.
Calico is a natural cotton fabric traditionally used as part of the upholstery structure.
It can form an important layer beneath the final upholstery fabric, helping to contain and shape the underlying materials.
Traditional upholstery relies on a number of such layers, each performing a specific function. Calico is a simple but important part of that construction.
For loose seat and back cushions, we use duck and goose feather and down where appropriate.
Our feather and down fillings are sourced from certified suppliers with an emphasis on animal welfare and responsible sourcing.
Feather and down provide a soft, naturally adaptable filling that can be plumped and reshaped, giving upholstered furniture a relaxed and comfortable feel.