Technology:  Friend or Foe?

Technology is not inherently good or bad. Old world methods and materials can still be applied to antiques and special pieces, though the best new water-based finishes have actually surpassed some of the classics. We evaluate each project individually to ensure that you have all the information to make the right choice.

The “sinuous spring” or “no-sag” is a firm support for the upholstery base on the less expensive end. It is a great choice for a family room with a lot of kids and it can take a beating. The cost savings comes from it taking 1/10th the time of the “old classic” 8-way hand tied, though there are some who find the difference in comfort dramatic. One very large and well known upholstery company claims to use “no-sag” because it is technologically advanced. The truth is that it is simply cheaper and faster to make.

Likewise, another mass retail upholstery producer claims to sell an “8-way hand tied spring suspension”. What they offer is not the same as a craftsperson taking 2 hours to hand-tie 24 springs, 8 -ways, to create a total custom comfort. Rather, it is a machine-made metal frame that has springs in it that are connected to each other 8 times. It takes the machine about 4 minutes to build. This product cannot accommodate custom sizes and bounces like a diving board, though it is “8-way suspension”. It is critical to ask questions:

Most manufacturers build in the wrong order and cushions end up not fitting or hanging over the front edge. Karges & Caron makes cushions first, then builds the frame around them to get the perfect fit. Here you can see a loveseat in progress awaiting a back, but with cushions complete.

This custom sectional was built as two pieces instead of four. Among the benefits of custom frames are less joints, resulting in better longevity and comfort. "Quality is never an accident, it is always the result of an intelligent effort" -John Ruskin

The bottom line

“You always remember the price of a bad meal, but not a good one.” -Stanley Marcus

Today, you can buy a sofa in the United States for as little as $299 and for as much as $9999 (or easily more). One should not overspend or underspend. Instead, pay for the right piece. The critical question is how will a piece be used. Whether it's children or adults, everyday use or rare, these all impact the choice and how much one should spend. Karges & Caron can clearly explain your options and simplify the process. Feel free to ask us how to best meet your current and future needs.