Vintage John K. Burch Company advertising upholstery regulator (awl) with its original printed wooden handle promoting the company's upholstery fabrics and supplies business.

This long, slender tool was designed for upholsterers to adjust stuffing beneath fabric without damaging the upholstery. Today it makes an interesting industrial collectible, sewing room display, or advertising tool for vintage décor.

Details

• Item: Upholstery regulator / awl advertising tool
• Maker/Mark: John K. Burch Co.
• Advertising: "Upholstery Fabrics and Supplies" and "67 Years of Continuous Service to the Upholsterer"
• Material: Wood handle with steel shaft
• Color: Yellow wood handle with black and red advertising graphics
• Measurements: Approximately 8 inches long x 1 inch wide
• Use: Upholstery regulator for repositioning stuffing beneath upholstery fabric

Condition Grade: Fair

Positives

• Advertising graphics remain clear and easy to read.
• Wood handle shows an attractive aged patina.
• Metal shaft remains firmly attached to the handle.

Issues / Wear

• Scattered stains, scratches, and finish wear from age and use.
• The metal tip appears to be broken or shortened, as shown in the photos.
• Sold primarily as a vintage advertising collectible or display piece rather than a working upholstery tool.

Please review all photos carefully for complete condition details.

Condition Grade Key

• Near Fine: Almost perfect with minimal signs of age.
• Very Good: Light wear with excellent overall appearance.
• Good: Honest vintage wear while remaining solid and attractive.
• Fair: Noticeable wear or damage that has been reflected in the price and description.

Collector's Notes

John K. Burch Company supplied upholstery materials and equipment to professional upholsterers through regional distribution centers in cities including Grand Rapids, Cincinnati, Kansas City, and Detroit.

Advertising shop tools like this are increasingly collected for their connection to skilled trades and American manufacturing history.

Even with its damaged tip, this example displays well thanks to its bold printed advertising and recognizable form.

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