Choosing a Couch - a Great Couch

A great couch is something everyone can enjoy.

If you're going to buy a couch, go for gold and buy a great couch. Finding a great one means you need to be aware of a few details. Only then can you decide if it's the one for you.

But before you head out the door, think about what you are looking for. The style the shape, the size, colour, texture and don't forget to measure out the size that you are looking for. Everything seems smaller in a huge warehouse, so don't make the mistake of thinking 'that will fit, it doesn't look that big', only to get it home and it takes up over half the living room.

So here's what to look for:

1. The skeleton. Look at the frame, make sure it's solid, that there is nothing creaking or loose.  That the arms don't jiggle or the legs wobble. Once you've decided it's solid, make sure that the frame is well covered, that there are no 'bare spots'. If any of the frame is sticking out your upholstery fabric will wear out a lot faster.
2. If you are buying a sofa bed or if it's a recliner, then make sure all the mechanisms are working smoothly. You're paying for these to work, so make sure they work to your liking. 
3. The cushions on the couch should fit snugly and are firm and feel like they will last a long time. Anything too soft, although comfy, means they will lose their shape quickly and be flattened in no time 
4. Check the bits and pieces. If it has buttons, are they sewn on properly? If there is trim make sure it's secure.
5. Look at the fabric pattern . Does it match up over the entire piece? If it's not matching up properly it will always feel like there is something 'off' about it. Is the fabric straight? This is easy to see with seams and stripes.
6. How does it feel? Lounge on it, settle in, stretch out. Put it through it's paces. If it's for a family, get the family along to try it out, make sure it has the seal of approval from everyone.
7. Make doubly sure it will fit in your space. Remember how I said it is likely to look smaller in a large warehouse? Well now is a good time to remember this.

 Have you bought a new couch lately? What did you look for? Did I miss anything out from the above list?