Bespoke Upholstery in Hertfordshire

Butterfly Upholstery by Natalie McCurry

My Services

Re-Upholstering

I can give renewed life to a beloved household chair with new fabric, new padding or simply a little TLC.

Bespoke Design

From headboards to footstools, handcrafted, tailored furniture just for your room.

Soft Furnishings

High-quality, made-to-measure curtains, blinds and cushions to give your room that unique feel.

My Work

Iron Back

Curtains & Blinds

Cushions

Lampshades

Traditional Upholstery

Modern Upholstery

My Suppliers

I have a large selection of quality upholstery fabrics to choose from the following suppliers. Simply select the fabric of your choice, and I will order it for you.

About Me

Natalie McCurry is a skilled and passionate upholsterer with over a decade of hands-on experience in both traditional and modern upholstery, as well as handmade curtains and blinds.

Natalie completed her AMSUF Level 2 and 3 qualifications in Upholstery in 2011, followed by her AMSUF qualification in Soft Furnishings in 2016, building a strong technical foundation that underpins everything she creates. In 2023, she was honoured to become a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Upholders — one of the City of London’s historic livery companies — and in 2025 was accepted as a Journeyman of the Traditional Guild of Upholstery, a recognised mark of professional excellence in the craft.

Ten years ago, Natalie founded Butterfly Upholstery, running her business from her own garden workshop where she brings tired and well-loved pieces back to life with care and craftsmanship. Her work spans everything from classic traditional techniques to contemporary styles, always tailored to each client’s vision.

Alongside her studio work, Natalie loves sharing her passion for the craft. She teaches weekly evening leisure classes at both Ware Regional College and St Albans Upholstery School, helping students discover the joy and satisfaction of working with fabric and furniture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Butterfly Upholstery is a bespoke upholstery and soft furnishings studio run by Natalie McCurry, based in Hertford, Hertfordshire. Natalie is a qualified upholsterer (AMU Level 3) with over fifteen years of experience breathing new life into furniture — from armchairs and sofas to headboards, footstools, and more.

The workshop is located in Hertford. Natalie works primarily across Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas. If you’re unsure whether she covers your location, feel free to get in touch.

Natalie works on a wide range of upholstered items, including:

  • Armchairs and dining chairs
  • Small sofas and chaise longues
  • Headboards and bed frames
  • Footstools and ottomans
    Window seats
  • Soft furnishings such as curtains, blinds, cushions and lampshades
  • If you have something specific in mind, just ask — she loves an unusual project.

You can reach Natalie by email at natalie@butterflyupholstery.co.uk or by phone on 07843 483 926. She’s available Monday to Friday, 10am – 4pm. To help with an accurate quote, sending a photo of your piece and your fabric choice is ideal.

Yes. Natalie holds an AMU Level 2 (2009) and Level 3 (2011)qualification in upholstery, AMSFU in Soft Furnishings 2016, and has since expanded her skills through years of professional practice and teaching at the local college evening classes.

How do I get a quote?

Send a picture of your furniture along with an idea of what fabric you would like, and we will give you an idea of pricing.

How long will my project take?

This is project-dependent.  Once we have the furniture and fabric, the timescale will be given. 

Do I need to deliver my furniture to you?

Clients typically arrange to drop pieces off at the workshop in Hertford. If you need help with collection or delivery, do mention it when you enquire — Natalie can advise on options depending on your location and the size of the piece.

Will my furniture be stripped back completely?

It depends on the piece and its condition. Some items need a full strip-back — removing all old fabric, webbing, and padding — before being rebuilt from scratch. Others may only require a fabric refresh or some light restoration. Natalie will assess this and discuss the best approach with you before any work begins.

Can you work with my own fabric?

Yes! If you already have a fabric in mind, Natalie is happy to use it. She’ll advise on how much you’ll need and flag anything to be aware of (such as pattern repeats, fabric weight, fire regulations) before you purchase. Please check with her first if you’re unsure.

Do you make curtains and blinds?

Yes — Natalie creates high-quality, made-to-measure curtains and blinds to complement your interiors. Whether you’re looking for a classic pinch pleat or an elegant goblet heading, or a contemporary wave, she can help you choose the right style and make the perfect window treatment for your room.

What curtain heading styles do you offer?

The heading is one of the most important choices you’ll make — it sets the tone of the whole window. Natalie offers the following hand-crafted heading styles:

Goblet Pleat

A rounded, cup-shaped pleat at the top — structured and elegant. Ideal for formal rooms, bay windows, and heavier fabrics. Hangs beautifully on a decorative pole and creates generous, even folds below. Requires approximately 2.5 times the track width in fabric.

Triple Pleat

Three neat folds pinched together at regular intervals — the classic choice for traditional and country interiors. Creates full, even drape and works on both poles and tracks. A timeless look that never dates. Requires approximately 2.5 times the track width in fabric.

Double Pleat

Two folds pinched together at each point — slightly more relaxed than a triple pleat, with a cleaner, more modern silhouette. A versatile heading that works in both contemporary and traditional settings. Uses slightly less fabric than triple pleat — approximately 2.25 times the track width.

Cartridge Pleat

Tightly stuffed, rounded pleats — often filled with buckram or interlining to hold their shape. Distinctive and architectural, cartridge pleats suit formal, grand settings and look particularly striking in bold or textured fabrics. A real statement heading. Requires approximately 2 times the track width in fabric.

What is a pencil pleat heading?

Pencil pleat is one of the most popular and versatile curtain headings — a series of small, tightly gathered folds running across the full width of the curtain. It works on both poles and tracks, suits almost any fabric and room style, and gives a full, classic look. If you’re unsure where to start, a pencil pleat is a safe and beautiful choice.

Which heading style uses the most fabric?

Goblet, triple pleat, and cartridge pleats typically require 2 to 2.5 times the track or pole width in fabric. Double pleat uses slightly less — around 2 to 2.25 times. Natalie will calculate the exact fabric quantity needed for your chosen heading and window size when providing your quote.

Do you make interlined or blackout curtains?

Yes. Adding an interlining gives curtains a beautiful, padded weight and helps them hang in perfect folds — it also improves insulation significantly. Blackout lining is ideal for bedrooms. Natalie can advise on the best lining for your fabric and requirements.

Do you also make cushions?

Yes. Bespoke cushions are a great way to tie a room together and use up any leftover fabric from a larger project. Natalie can make scatter cushions, box cushions for window seats or garden furniture, and more.

How do I get measured for curtains?

Natalie will guide you through the measuring process. For curtains, you’ll need to know your track or pole width and your drop (floor-length or sill-length). She can advise you step-by-step by email or phone, or discuss a visit depending on your location and project scope.

Do you hang the curtains and blinds?

Yes, Natalie hangs the curtains and blinds when finished.

Do you supply fabric, or do I need to source my own?

Natalie has access to a large selection of quality upholstery fabrics through her trusted trade suppliers. She can order fabric on your behalf — simply browse the collections, choose your fabric, and she’ll take care of the rest. You’re also welcome to supply your own fabric. If you would like to visit the workshop to go through the pattern books, please arrange an appointment.

Which fabric suppliers do you use?

Natalie works with a handpicked selection of reputable suppliers:

  • Sunbury Fabrics
  • Fryett’s
  • Wemyss Fabrics
  • Warwick Fabrics
  • Ross Fabrics
  • Moon Fabrics

Between them, they offer an extensive range of velvets, weaves, linens, prints, and performance fabrics to suit every style and budget.

How do I choose the right fabric for my piece?

Natalie is happy to guide you through the options based on how the piece will be used, the look you’re going for, and your budget. Factors like rub count (durability), pattern repeat, and cleaning codes all matter — particularly for high-use items like dining chairs or family sofas.

Can I request fabric samples?

Yes — most of Natalie’s suppliers offer sample swatches so you can check the colour and texture in your own home before committing. Just let Natalie know what you’re interested in, and she can arrange samples for you.

What padding or filling materials do you use?

Natalie uses quality materials appropriate to the piece — from traditional coir/horsehair and fibre to modern high-density foam and feather-wrap finishes. The goal is always to restore or improve the original comfort and shape of the furniture for lasting results.

How much does upholstery cost?

Pricing depends on the type of piece, its condition, the complexity of the work, and the fabric chosen. Because every item is unique, all quotes are tailored. As a rough guide, a simple dining chair re-cover will cost significantly less than a full sofa restoration. Send a photo and Natalie will provide a clear, no-obligation quote.

Is a deposit required?

Yes, a deposit is typically required to secure your place in the schedule and to cover fabric ordering. Natalie will outline the deposit amount and payment terms when she sends your quote.

Is it worth re-upholstering rather than buying new?

Very often, yes. If the furniture fits the space, has a sentimental value, or a quality vintage or antique frame, it can be worth far more than a modern equivalent once restored. Re-upholstering is also a sustainable choice — keeping furniture out of landfill and giving it decades more life.

What payment methods do you accept?

Natalie accepts bank transfer and cash. Please confirm your preferred payment method when discussing your project — she’ll include full payment details with your quote.

Still have a question?

Contact me

Thank you for contacting me about your reupholstery project.

Please don’t hesitate to send me a picture of your furniture and your choice of fabric in order for me to give you a specific quote.

From start to finish, projects are generally completed within 4 to 8 weeks.