Give Old Furniture a New Look for Low Price

Judging from the inquiries I’ve been getting lately, many of you are planning to do some redecorating, particularly in the area of slipcovers and upholstery.

The price range from various upholsterers is so wide it gives one pause. One Valley upholsterer, considered by some to be a bargain, charges a hefty $500 just for the labor on a standard sofa. Believe me, that’s no deal.

The prices at M.H. Designs are much more reasonable, with $699 covering the cost of reupholstering a sofa and a love seat, including the fabric. Or if you want a pair of chairs redone, figure $390 for labor and material.

The selection of fabrics consists of prints and solids in various textures, but you won’t find any plaids or stripes, because both require more labor.

If what you want done is a sofa (standard 7-foot length with two or three cushions), the labor charge is $375 plus the fabric. Or you can brighten up the bedroom by reupholstering the headboard for $150.

Slipcovers are still very popular and the prices at M.H. Designs are among the best in town. Labor charges for a standard sofa with two or three cushions is $250, for a love seat it’s $188, a chaise lounge is $200 and for an ottoman plan on $60.

The selection of fabrics at M.H. Designs is excellent with products from some of the major mills discounted from 30% to 60%. The in-stock close-outs get the big price cut of 60% while tapestries, weaves, textures and velours from Pacific Hide and Leather are all marked at 30% below retail.

Current designs from Ametex and other mills that regularly sell for $39 to $49.95 are priced from $19 to $22 per yard, while some that generally run from $20 to $40 are offered at $12 to $18.

The workrooms where everything is made--from duvets and draperies, dining set pads and bolsters to custom-made furniture--are on the premises; turnaround time is two weeks on most projects.

This is a family business; owners Marty and Barbara Helpman are interior designers who are available at their facility in Northridge or will come to your home and lend their expertise to your selections.

M.H. Designs, 19328 Londelius St., Northridge. (818) 366-1721. Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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Weekend Super Sale

The price slashing hits rock bottom at Past Perfect starting Saturday. Most of the inventory at this classy resale store for women’s designer apparel will be reduced 50% to 75%. Past Perfect, 12616 Ventura Blvd., Studio City. (818) 760-8872.