Here are some important points to check (and things to ask / verify) before buying a bench with velvet fabric + button tufting from ARV Furniture in Mississauga, Ontario (or really any retailer) so that you get good value and avoid surprises.

What to Check / Ask

1] Fabric Quality – Velvet
What type of velvet is it? (polyester, rayon/viscose, cotton, blend, or synthetic)

Synthetic velvets tend to be more durable and stain resistant; natural velvets look richer but may require more care.

Pile height and density. Deep, plush pile looks luxurious but may crush more easily; a shorter, denser pile can hold up better.

Backing & lining. Does it have a good backing to reinforce the fabric (under tufting) so buttons stay in place and fabric doesn’t tear or sag?

Color/sheen variation. Velvet often looks different depending on light and angle; check in different lighting and angles.

Stain resistance / ease of cleaning. Velvet can trap dust / hair; ask if it’s treated or if there are cleaning recommendations — local upholstery cleaners, if allowed.

2] Button Tufting & Construction

Are the buttons securely attached? Are the threads passing deep into the cushion or structure, or just superficial?

How deep is the tufting? Deep tufting gives a dramatic look but may be harder to clean, more prone to sagging over time.

Cushion / filler under the fabric and around the tufting: is it foam, fibre, a mix? What density / resilience is the foam (if used)?

Frame structure: what is it made of (solid wood? plywood? particle board?)

Look for corner blocks, good joinery, etc., so frame stays stable under the pressure of having someone sit on the bench.

3] Size, Proportions & Ergonomics

Dimensions: width, depth, height. Make sure it fits in the intended space (doorways, hall, into the room). Measure entryways.

Seat height & depth: is it comfortable for sitting, or more decorative? If you plan to use it often (putting on shoes, etc.), you’ll want comfort.

Weight capacity: how much weight can the bench support? Important if multiple people will sit, or if people are heavier etc.

4] Support & Padding

Cushion / seat support: are there springs, webbing, or just foam? Better support = longer life and better comfort.

Padding under velvet / tufting: if it’s too thin, the buttons may show indentations; too thick and the look may be too bulky.

5] Finish & Detailing

Look closely at the buttons, seams, piping, edge trim (nailheads etc.) for craftsmanship. Are the seams straight, consistent spacing of tufting, are buttons aligned symmetrically?

Check the finish of legs or frame (if exposed): wood stain/metal plating/paint finish, etc., for any scratches, chips or rough spots.

6] Storage / Special Features

If the bench has storage (lift top or drawers), check the mechanism: hinges, smoothness of opening/closing, how durable the moving parts are.

If has chrome legs, nailhead or metal trim––inspect for quality of metal, ensure no rusting risk or weak joints.

7] Safety & Durability

Fire code compliance: upholstery should meet local fire safety standards.

Off-gassing smell: new upholstered furniture can have odors. Ask about the substances used (foam, adhesives, dyes).

Warranties: what does ARV’s warranty cover? Fabric tears, tufting coming loose, cushion sagging, frame integrity, etc. For how many years?

8] Logistics: Price, Delivery, Returns

Total cost including taxes, delivery, any extra fees. For bulky furniture, delivery can add up.

Lead time: is this a “pre-order” item? When will it be delivered? ARV’s website shows some items are “pre-order.”

Return / exchange policy: what if it doesn’t match the colour, or the tufting looks different, or the fill is too soft?

Assembly needed? If yes, is it offered, and is there a charge?

9] Local Climate / Usage Impacts

In Ontario, with seasonal humidity changes, wood can warp, fabric can expand. Velvet might be more susceptible to moisture; ensure frame and materials are stable.

If bench gets direct sun, velvet can fade. Consider placement away from harsh sunlight.

If used heavily (kids, pets), velvet might snag; consider durability or pet-friendly fabrics.

What I Found Specific to ARV Furniture

Here are some specific findings to cross-check, based on what I saw:

ARV’s White Velvet Bench with Button Tufting and Nailhead Trim is listed at ~$270 on sale, normally $360. It’s pre-order. Size: 51″W × 18.5″D × 24.5″H.

They also have a Blue Velvet Storage Bench with Deep Tufting and Chrome Legs listed at ~$210 on sale, pre-order. Size: 36″L × 18″W × 18″H.

The “deep button tufting” is a feature in many of their benches; so expect tufting indentation.

The product specifications often note “material: velvet fabric” but may not always give detailed info on fill / foam quality. So that’s something you’ll want to ask.

If you like, I can pull up a checklist you can take with you (or use when buying online) for ARV’s benches, or even compare some models they have to help you pick a good one. Do you want me to do that for you?