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Step 1
Have a seat. Consider only an upholstered chair, sofa or loveseat that is comfortable with the right depth of seat, arm width, height and angle of the back.
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Step 2
Choose a frame of kiln-dried hardwood perhaps in combination with steel or other materials to resist warping. Look for frames that sit squarely with all four corners on the floor without creaking or wobbling.
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Step 3
Look for webbing, sling straps or slat in various combination and amounts to determine the degree of support. Consider eight-way hand-tied coil springing as a mark of quality and the best in resiliency and response to body weight.
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Step 4
Select the best cushions the budget allows to insure long-term comfort. Choose from materials such as cotton or polyurethane foam, down or other mothproof, mildew-resistant material.
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Step 5
Check exterior finishing details. Make sure that cushions fit well, that cushion zippers work smoothly and that buttons are secure. See that frame edges and corners are nicely padded and that there are no sharp edges. Test the mechanism on sofa beds and recliners.
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Step 6
Make sure the covering is pleasing to the eye. Look for straight seams and welts and stripes, plaids and patterns matched at the seams and across seating cushions.
