THE SOFASTIL GUIDE
Sit comfortably.
Feel at home for longer.
A sofa is part of everyday life. Learn what matters inside, how to care for its cover and what makes Berlin craftsmanship special.
01 · SEATING COMFORT
Comfort starts on the inside.
Foam and springs are often used together: many sofas combine springs with several layers of foam. What matters is the complete construction.
| Filling | How it may feel | What matters |
|---|---|---|
| PUR upholstery foam | How it may feelSoft to firm, depending on formulation and construction. A versatile base for seat and back cushions. | What mattersConsider density, compression hardness, cushion thickness and suspension together. |
| High-resilience (HR) foam | How it may feelAn elastic type of PUR foam that adapts under pressure and springs back quickly. | What mattersHR foam also comes in different grades and firmness levels. The name alone does not prove quality. |
| Bonnell springs | How it may feelConnected steel springs compress across a wider area. The seat may feel more springy. | What mattersTry the springs together with the foam layers above them. |
| Pocket springs | How it may feelSprings individually wrapped in fabric pockets respond more locally to pressure. | What mattersThe number and design of the springs and the top padding all contribute to comfort. |
Density is not seat firmness.
Density (kg/m³) is the weight of a cubic metre of foam. Among comparable foams, it indicates material content and durability. Compression hardness describes resistance to compression. Dense foam can still be soft.
The right combination depends on use, body weight, cushion thickness and your preferred feel. No single measurement guarantees a sofa's lifespan.
How to try a sofa properly.
- Sit as you would at home: upright for conversation or relaxed with your legs on the sofa.
- Check seat depth, back support and how easily you can get up. When sitting upright, your feet should comfortably reach the floor.
- Stay seated for a few minutes. Compare cushioning and support, not just the first soft impression.
This comparison explains common constructions. We will discuss which filling is available for your chosen model personally.
Discuss seating comfort with us02 · FABRIC CARE
Keep your favourite place looking beautiful.
The most important rule: follow the care instructions for your particular cover first. Fibre, dye and finishing determine which cleaning methods are suitable.
How do I care for my sofa day to day?
Remove dust and crumbs regularly, about once a week, using a clean upholstery nozzle and low suction. Check the care instructions first for delicate surfaces.
Fluff loose cushions as instructed by the manufacturer and turn them only if designed for it. Avoid intense sunlight and direct heat from radiators where possible.
I spilled a drink. What should I do immediately?
Gently soak it up with a clean, white, absorbent cloth. Blot rather than rub. Carefully lift off solid residue.
Before using water or cleaning products, check the care instructions for the specific cover. If these are unknown, send us the fabric name and a photo of the stain.
How do I remove a stain from fabric?
1. Check the care label or fabric data sheet. Water is not suitable for every cover.
2. Use only an approved product, test it in a hidden area and let that area dry.
3. Treat sparingly according to the care instructions and absorb with a white cloth. Do not soak the cover or scrub hard.
4. Let it air-dry completely before using it again. Do not use a hair dryer or direct heat.
Do not use bleach, alcohol, acetone, baking soda, vinegar or steam cleaners unless expressly approved for that cover. Consult a professional cleaner for old, large or unidentified stains.
What is different about velvet and delicate fabrics?
Velvet has a pile that may look lighter or darker depending on viewing angle and pressure. This is not necessarily a stain.
Do not scrub against the pile. Vacuum or brush gently only as the fabric instructions allow. Water may leave rings or change colour on natural fibres and delicate blends.
Can I machine-wash the cover?
Only if the care label expressly permits it. A zip does not automatically mean that the cover is removable or washable. Always follow the manufacturer's temperature, cycle and drying instructions.
How do I care for leather and faux leather?
Leather types differ: coated leather, aniline leather and suede need different care. Identify the type first and use only products suited to it.
Clean faux leather with a soft cloth following the manufacturer's instructions. Do not apply leather grease or balm to faux leather as a general treatment.
A cut, tear or pulled thread: what helps?
Avoid pulling at the damage or cutting off loose threads. Do not use superglue. Keep pressure off the damaged area where possible.
Send us a close-up and a photo of the whole piece. We will assess whether the seam can be repaired, a panel replaced or the furniture reupholstered. Whether a repair remains visible depends on the damage and material.
Unsure about a stain?
Send us the fabric name, a photo and a description of what happened. We will help you assess the next step.
Attach your photos directly in WhatsApp. Complete stain removal cannot be promised in advance.
03 · HANDMADE IN BERLIN
A sofa starts with you.
How do you live? How much space do you have? Do you prefer sitting upright or stretching out on a generous, deep seat? These questions are where our work begins.
Plan together.
We discuss the model, dimensions in cm, upholstery and seating feel. A floor plan or a photo of your room helps. Doors, stairs and access are part of the planning too.
Choose materials thoughtfully.
Compare colour and texture using the original swatch. We establish which cover and cushion construction match your wishes and are available.
Make it by hand in Berlin.
Cutting requires attention to measurements, seam allowances and the direction of patterns or pile. The pieces are sewn, the padding built up and the cover fitted. Your choices become a finished sofa.
Arrange completion and delivery.
We make your sofa within 14 days from the agreed production start. Measurements, cover and material availability are settled beforehand. We confirm completion and delivery with you; production time is not automatically delivery time.
Why does bespoke work cost more?
You pay for planning your design, the materials and the work from cutting to the finished cover. Special dimensions, intricate seams, tufting and your choice of filling affect the labour involved.
The value is in daily life: suitable proportions, a carefully chosen cover and a seat you enjoy. A high price alone does not prove quality. We therefore discuss the design and price before you order.
Here for you later, too.
A much-loved piece of furniture deserves a second look. When needed, we assess whether padding, seams or covers can be renewed or repaired. What is possible and worthwhile depends on its condition and construction.
Reupholstery and repairsTell us about your home.
Bring your ideas. We will plan the details together. Visits in Berlin-Charlottenburg are by appointment.
