How abracadabra Upholstery Studio began

I discovered my love for upholstery as an apprentice in a small shop in New Jersey, learning the art of transforming worn furniture into beautifully restored, handmade pieces. In 1999, I opened my own custom upholstery business in Middletown, New York, naming it Abracadabra Upholstery Studio – because every piece of furniture has the potential for a little magic. Since then it’s been a pleasure of reimagining furniture that has made its way to my studio from every corner of the Hudson Valley: Goshen, Montgomery, Pine Bush, Warwick, Washingtonville, Chester, Monroe and Tuxedo, from Rockland county, Long Island, New York City and New Jersey.

When I reupholster, I do more that just replace the fabric. I carefully inspect and repair what my client cannot see. I make sure springs are providing good support and are secured with strong, durable webbing. Padding and cushioning is inspected and replaced when necessary to restore comfort and shape. I also inspect the furniture frame to confirm it is solid and structurally sound, repairing and reinforcing any areas that need attention.

I’m always committed to growing my craft. Not long ago I was extremely excited to meet and be tutored by English and French master upholsterers to refine my traditional upholstery techniques such as hand tying springs, proper application of natural furniture stuffing such as horsehair, coconut fiber, excelsior, straw, moss and cotton (who knew upholsterers were using these natural materials very successfully for centuries before modern foam was invented?), correct attachment of webbing, and meticulous stitching of horsehair into supportive furniture padding and cushions. These time honored techniques allow me to restore furniture with careful craftsmanship, comfort and durability, creating custom upholstery tailored to each piece’s unique structure. Whether it’s an antique, a family heirloom or a modern piece, I provide handmade furniture restoration that preserves character and enhances longevity.

Every project is unique, and I never rush my work. Each piece of furniture has its own story and deserves careful restoration, handmade attention, and the kind of patience that turns quality upholstery work into lasting beauty.