COM/COL/COT? No, not a game of Scrabble, but acronyms of the design world that are part and parcel when ordering custom upholstery. Rather than choosing one of the standard fabric or leather options carried by a furniture manufacturer, a designer can opt for something truly unique for the client, from the infinite possibilities offered by hundreds of textile suppliers.

COM – Customer’s Own Material – The yardage specified by a manufacturer is generally given as plain goods (no repeat), 54″ wide.  If the fabric is narrower or has a repeat, additional yardage is required.  Repeats are generally figured on whichever is greater, vertical or horizontal.  For example, if the fabric is 48″ wide with a 36″ repeat, an additional 40% more fabric would need to be ordered.  Care should be given when choosing fabric; the location of the dominant motif, repeat size and scale in relation to the frame, and the pattern weave direction, all can affect the final product.

COL – Customer’s Own Leather – The amount specified by a manufacturer is given in total square feet required.  As leather is a natural product, there is not a “standard” hide size, but generally hides run between 40-55 square feet of usable goods.  Usable goods is the amount of leather that can be used for the upholstery process, and does not include the waste or scrap.  The leather supplier will supply enough hides to fill the order, and depending upon the supplier, will or won’t charge for any overage.   There is generally a 10-20% upcharge for upholstering with leather.

COT – Customer’s Own Trim – A somewhat lesser known term, but still part of the upholstery process.  Custom welt cord or fringe trim for a throw pillow, is just as important as the perfect fabric.  Always given in yards required, some manufacturers will charge an additional fee for applying the custom trim.

Truly, the words say it all – customer’s own.  The sofa or chair or chaise becomes a unique reflection of the client’s taste and the designer’s vision.

A series to get your creative juices flowing for your interior design firm’s blog.  Read the introduction here.

1. Choosing towel colors.  How to use a spa-like approach or to accent with your bath towels.
2. 5 favorite pedestal sinks.
   

   Photo: Better Homes & Gardens

3. How to tell good upholstery from bad.  Possibly show pictures that will educate your reader on what they can look for when selecting a piece of upholstery.
4. Effects of glazing cabinetry.  How different glazes change the natural colors of woods.
5. Choosing the right area rug.  Size, style, and more.  Do you put the sofa legs on it?

Photo: Apartment Therapy

Be sure to check back next Monday for five more blog post ideas!