DIXON – The Upholstery Fabric Outlet, 609 W. Third St., is turning 35.
Howard and Cherrith Wiseman, who opened Nov. 1, 1980, reupholster new and antique furniture, indoor as well as outdoor, and sell fabric from their shop at the Third Street railroad viaduct, former site of Fisher’s Grocery Store. They also redo flat and sagging cushions, and make tablecloths, curtains, bedskirts and pillows, as well as custom items such as air-conditioner covers.
The original Upholstery Shop opened in the basement, because two other businesses were on the first floor. All the furniture had to be carried downstairs, torn apart, repaired and re-upholstered, and then carried back upstairs. A wide assortment of material was available.
In 1983, two apartments were built as a second-floor addition, and the shop moved upstairs to the main level. More material was added, along with retail sample books for more customer choices. The Wisemans and their daughter, Avalynda Casey, now sell cotton chintz, nylon/polyester blends, velvet and vinyls, and can order from dozens of wholesalers.
The shop is open 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 815-288-6083 for more information.