Reddit-Style Guide: What Photos Do Upholsterers Need for a Quote?

A lot of Reddit upholstery quote posts include one dark photo and the question: how much will this cost? A workshop needs more than that to avoid guessing.

Short Answer

For a useful quote, send front, side, back, underside, cushion, damage, and room-access photos, plus dimensions, postcode, fabric plans, collection needs, and what feels wrong when you sit on it.

Send The Whole Piece

A close-up of a tear is useful, but it does not show the size, construction, arms, back, cushion style, or complexity of the furniture.

Take photos from the front, both sides, back, and at least one wider room shot so scale and access are clear.

Include The Problem Areas

Photograph stains, tears, sagging cushions, broken seams, worn arms, pet damage, loose buttons, and any frame movement you can show.

If the problem is comfort, describe it: too soft, too hard, lumpy, dipping in the middle, or leaning to one side.

Dimensions And Postcode Matter

Give width, depth, height, and cushion count. For cushions or window seats, measure length, depth, and desired thickness.

Postcode helps estimate collection and return, and avoids late surprises about area or logistics.

Mention Fabric And Deadline

Say whether you already have fabric, need help choosing, want leather, need Crib 5 or contract fabric, or need stain-resistant options.

If there is a deadline, put it in the enquiry. A wedding, restaurant opening, or house move changes the planning conversation.

Useful Sources

• Upholstery Rooms price guide - shows why different furniture types require different quote assumptions.
• Business Companion fire safety guide - context for labels and compliance details visible in photos.
• Just Fabrics Martindale guide - useful when sending fabric specifications for a quote.

Next Step

Send photos of the front, side, back, underside, and any damage, plus your postcode and whether you need collection. We can then tell you whether the job is sensible, what information is still missing, and what sort of price range to expect.