Jennifer Taylor Home built its reputation on bringing luxury aesthetics to the everyday online shopper. Their sofas feature velvet, tufting, and intricate wood carving, which usually command a premium price tag. My team and I wanted to know if these visually striking pieces could handle the realities of daily life. We brought five of their most popular models into our testing lab to find out if the beauty is only skin deep or if there is real structural substance beneath the velvet.
Our testing process involves a diverse group of real people with very different bodies and habits. I am Chris, your lead tester. I am joined by Marcus, Carlos, Mia, Jenna, Jamal, and Ethan. We also have Dr. Adrian Walker observing our sessions to provide clinical feedback on how these frames affect our posture. We spent weeks rotating through these sofas, analyzing everything from the resilience of the tufting buttons to the stability of the rolled arms.
We did not treat these pieces like museum exhibits. We flopped down with full weight, tested the zippers, and pushed the frames to see if they flexed. Dr. Walker watched our seated angles, noting where our lower backs lost support or where our necks strained. This isn't just a spec sheet; this is a deep dive into how these Jennifer Taylor sofa models perform when the cameras are off.
Product Overview
| Sofa Model | Pros | Cons | Ideal For | Price | Overall Score |
| Jack Tuxedo Sofa | Stunning modern glam look; firm support | Low back offers zero head support | Formal living rooms; short sits | $$ | 4.6 |
| La Rosa Chesterfield | Classic tufted elegance; deep seat | Velvet traps heat; buttons can snag | Traditionalists; statement pieces | $$$ | 4.7 |
| Marcella Sofa | Unique camelback shape; high back | Seat cushion is very firm | Reading nooks; vintage style | $$ | 4.4 |
| Katherine Sectional | Reversible chaise; compact size | Cushions are thin; low durability | Small apartments; guest rooms | $$ | 4.2 |
| Alana Sofa | Simple, clean lines; good value | Fabric feels thinner; legs wobble | Budget buyers; first apartments | $ | 4.1 |
Jennifer Taylor Sofa Comparison Chart
| Feature | Jack Tuxedo | La Rosa Chesterfield | Marcella Sofa | Katherine Sectional | Alana Sofa |
| Seat Depth | Moderate (24") | Deep (26") | Shallow (21") | Moderate (23") | Moderate (22") |
| Seat Height | 19" | 18" | 20" | 19" | 18" |
| Cushion Fill | High-Density Foam | Foam / Spring | Firm Foam | Medium Foam | Medium Foam |
| Back Support | Low / Tufted | Low / Rolled | High / Curved | Moderate / Loose | Moderate / Fixed |
| Upholstery | Performance Velvet | Velvet | Polyester Blend | Velvet / Linen | Polyester |
| Style | Modern Glam | Victorian / Classic | French Country | Modern / Flexible | Mid-Century |
| Durability | High (Tight seat) | Medium (Buttons) | High (Tight back) | Low (Reversible) | Medium |
| Assembly | Legs Only | Legs Only | Legs Only | Full Assembly | Legs Only |
What We Tested and How We Tested It
We established a rigorous testing protocol to push these Jennifer Taylor sofa models past their limits. My team and I sat on each sofa for extended periods, ranging from quick ten-minute breaks to three-hour movie sessions. We evaluated the "drop test," where we let our full body weight fall onto the cushions to measure impact absorption and frame stability. We tested napping capabilities by lying flat, curling up, and using armrests as makeshift pillows.
We paid close attention to posture support during active tasks like laptop work. We sat on the edge, leaned back fully, and shifted positions to see if the cushions stayed supportive or collapsed. We also brought in family dynamics. Jenna and Ethan tested the "couple factor," sitting close together to measure motion transfer and space. We observed how the fabrics and leathers handled friction, heat buildup, and potential snagging from zippers or jeans.
Dr. Adrian Walker monitored our physical alignment throughout the process. He looked for signs of "sacral slide," where the hips scoot forward and compromise the lower back. He checked knee angles for our taller and shorter testers to ensure proper circulation. We also tracked the maintenance factor, noting how often pillows needed fluffing or if velvet showed immediate "butt prints" after a long sitting session.
Testing Team Takeaways
I found that Jennifer Taylor prioritizes firmness across their line. The Jack Tuxedo sofa was a standout for me visually, but sitting on it felt like sitting on a well-upholstered bench. It kept my posture perfect for conversation, but I wouldn't want to binge-watch a series on it. The La Rosa offered a bit more plushness due to the springs, but the low back still forced me to slouch to get comfortable.
Marcus Reed struggled with the heat on the velvet models. I feel like I'm baking after an hour on the La Rosa, he noted. He loved the depth of the La Rosa, though, as it fit his 6'1" frame well. He found the Alana to be too flimsy; when he leaned back, he felt the frame flex slightly. He appreciated the high back of the Marcella, which actually supported his shoulders, unlike the others.
Carlos Alvarez spent his time analyzing the tufting. The buttons on the Jack are tight, he observed. He sat upright with his laptop and found the Jack to be excellent for typing posture because the back doesn't give way. However, he noted that the Katherine sectional's cushions were too thin, causing him to feel the wood frame underneath after an hour of sitting.
Mia Chen faced challenges with the seat depth on the La Rosa. My legs stick straight out, she laughed. She needed a pillow behind her back to sit comfortably. She adored the Marcella because the shallower seat allowed her feet to touch the floor. She loved the tactile feel of the velvet on the Jack, finding it soft against her skin during reading sessions.
Jenna Brooks focused on the versatility. She found the Katherine sectional clever for small spaces because the chaise moves, but the comfort was lacking for two people. We keep sliding toward the middle, she noted when sitting with Ethan. She loved the aesthetic of the La Rosa for hosting guests; it created a focal point that everyone complimented, even if they didn't stay seated for long.
Jamal Davis needed room to stretch. The Alana was a no-go for him. I feel like I'm on a waiting room chair, he joked. He found the La Rosa to be the only one substantial enough for his size. He tested the armrest strength on the Jack by pushing off it to stand up, and it felt solid, confirming the sturdy build of the frame.
Jennifer Taylor Sofa Reviews: Our Testing Experience
Jack Tuxedo Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Jack is a visual stunner. I sat down and felt the firmness immediately. It is not a sink-in couch. The single bench cushion is firm, offering excellent support for a cocktail party but less for a nap. I sat upright for an hour chatting with the team, and I felt engaged and supported. However, when I tried to lie down, the high, hard arms required a thick pillow to protect my head.
Carlos Alvarez appreciated the structure. This forces me to sit correctly, he stated. He liked that the back cushions were part of the frame, so they didn't shift or need fluffing. He noted that the velvet was high quality and didn't show wear easily. However, he missed having a headrest for longer sessions.
Mia Chen loved curling up in the corner. The high arm makes a cozy nook, she said. She tucked her legs under and read a book comfortably. She noted that the gold legs added a nice touch of glamour but felt sturdy. Dr. Walker observed the posture. "The vertical back encourages a neutral spine," he noted. "However, the lack of lumbar contour means users might need a small throw pillow for extended sitting."
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Beautiful modern glam design | Very firm seat cushion |
| Sturdy frame with no flex | Low back offers no head support |
| Velvet is durable and soft | Bench seat can wrinkle |
| No loose cushions to maintain | Arms are hard and high |
Details:
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Price: $800 – $1,200
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Size: 84 inches wide
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Seat Depth: 24 inches
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Seat Height: 19 inches
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Cushion Firmness: Firm
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Frame Material: Kiln-Dried Birch
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Fabric Type: Performance Velvet
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Legs: Zinc / Gold finish
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Assembly: Legs only
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Warranty: 1 Year Limited
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Comfort | 4.2 | Firm but supportive for sitting. |
| Support | 4.8 | Excellent structural integrity. |
| Durability | 4.9 | Tight seat means no sagging. |
| Value | 4.8 | High style for a low price. |
| Overall | 4.6 | The glamorous showpiece. |
La Rosa Chesterfield Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The La Rosa screams old-world luxury. I sat down and was surprised by the springiness. Unlike the Jack, this seat has some give. The rolled arms are classic. I leaned back, and the tufting felt firm against my spine. It is a deep sofa. I could pull my legs up easily. However, the velvet trapped my body heat quickly. I found myself getting warm after twenty minutes.
Marcus Reed claimed this spot. This fits me, he said. The depth was perfect for his long legs. He liked the substantial feel of the sofa. It didn't move when he sat down heavy. He noted that the buttons on the seat cushion could be felt if he sat in certain positions, which might be annoying for some.
Jenna and Ethan found it great for hosting. It looks impressive, Jenna noted. But for cuddling, the rolled arms created a barrier if they leaned against them. They also noted that crumbs got stuck in the tufting easily. Dr. Walker pointed out the ergonomic trade-off. "The deep seat is excellent for tall users," he said. "But shorter users will experience pressure behind the knees unless they sit cross-legged."
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Classic, timeless aesthetic | Velvet traps body heat |
| Deep seat accommodates tall users | Buttons can catch crumbs |
| Spring support adds bounce | Low back offers no neck support |
| Very sturdy, heavy feel | Hard to clean tufting crevices |
Details:
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Price: $1,000 – $1,500
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Size: 85 inches wide
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Seat Depth: 26 inches
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Seat Height: 18 inches
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Cushion Firmness: Medium-Firm
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Frame Material: Solid Wood
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Fabric Type: Velvet
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Style: Victorian / Chesterfield
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Assembly: Legs only
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Comfort | 4.5 | Good bounce and depth. |
| Support | 4.2 | Low back is the limiting factor. |
| Durability | 4.6 | Buttons are tight; frame is solid. |
| Value | 4.7 | Looks far more expensive than it is. |
| Overall | 4.7 | The budget luxury king. |
Marcella Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Marcella is the romantic of the group. I admired the camelback shape. I sat down, and it felt tall. The backrest came up to my shoulders, which was a relief after the Jack and La Rosa. I could actually lean back fully. The seat, however, is very firm. It felt more like a formal chair than a sofa. I read a book here for an hour and enjoyed the upright support.
Mia Chen loved the scale. It feels elegant, she said. The shallower seat depth allowed her feet to rest flat. She liked the wood trim on the legs. It felt like an antique. She noted that the fabric was a polyester blend that felt durable but not as soft as the velvet on the other models.
Jamal Davis found it too dainty. I feel like I'm going to break it, he joked, though the frame held firm. The seat width was a bit narrow for him to sprawl out. He couldn't nap on it comfortably because the curved arms were too high and hard. Dr. Walker praised the back height. "The camelback design offers superior thoracic support compared to the tuxedo styles," he noted. "It is a better choice for users who read or knit for long periods."
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| High back offers shoulder support | Seat cushion is very firm |
| Elegant, unique shape | Not comfortable for napping |
| Perfect scale for smaller rooms | Fabric feels a bit stiff |
| Wood legs add character | Curved shape limits lounging |
Details:
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Price: $900 – $1,300
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Size: 79 inches wide
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Seat Depth: 21 inches
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Seat Height: 20 inches
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Cushion Firmness: Firm
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Frame Material: Birch Wood
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Fabric Type: Polyester Blend
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Style: French Country
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Assembly: Legs only
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Comfort | 4.0 | Excellent posture, poor lounging. |
| Support | 4.8 | Best upper back support tested. |
| Durability | 4.5 | Tight back holds shape well. |
| Value | 4.3 | Unique style for the price. |
| Overall | 4.4 | The vintage reading spot. |
Katherine Sectional
Our Testing Experience:
The Katherine is the practical choice. I assembled it myself. It took about thirty minutes. I sat down, and I felt the difference in quality immediately. The cushions are thinner than the Jack or La Rosa. I could feel the base if I bounced. It is comfortable for a first apartment, but it lacks the substantial feel of the other models. The reversible chaise is a huge plus for flexibility.
Jenna and Ethan tested it for movies. It's a bit small for two, Ethan noted. They were shoulder to shoulder. The chaise cushion shifted a bit when they moved. Jenna liked the modern look but wished the back cushions were fluffier. They flattened out after one movie.
Carlos Alvarez found the support lacking. My back is rounding, he noted. The loose back cushions offered little resistance. He had to keep adjusting them. Dr. Walker noted the seat depth. "The moderate depth is accessible," he said. "But the lack of cushion density means the hips sink unevenly, which can cause pelvic misalignment over time."
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Reversible chaise is versatile | Cushions are thin and soft |
| Compact size fits apartments | Frame feels lightweight |
| Affordable price point | Fabric pills easily |
| Modern, clean aesthetic | Back cushions sag quickly |
Details:
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Price: $700 – $1,000
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Size: 80 inches wide
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Seat Depth: 23 inches
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Seat Height: 19 inches
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Cushion Firmness: Medium-Soft
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Frame Material: Plywood / Pine
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Fabric Type: Polyester / Velvet
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Configuration: Reversible Chaise
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Assembly: Full Assembly Required
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Comfort | 3.8 | Okay for short term, thin foam. |
| Support | 3.5 | Loose cushions offer little help. |
| Durability | 3.5 | Cushions will flatten fast. |
| Value | 4.5 | Great flexibility for the price. |
| Overall | 4.2 | The apartment starter. |
Alana Sofa
Our Testing Experience:
The Alana is the budget mid-century option. I screwed in the legs, which felt a bit wobbly until fully tightened. I sat down. The foam is medium density. It is softer than the Jack but firmer than the Katherine. It is a simple, no-frills sit. I watched TV for an hour. It was fine. Nothing hurt, but nothing felt luxurious. It is a functional piece of furniture.
Marcus Reed tested the frame flex. He leaned back hard. There is some movement here, he warned. The backrest flexed slightly under his weight. He wouldn't trust it for roughhousing. He liked the clean lines, though. It fits easily into any decor.
Mia Chen liked the simplicity. It’s easy to style, she said. She added some throw pillows to make it cozier. She noted that the fabric felt a bit thin, like it might snag on pet claws. Dr. Walker observed the ergonomics. "The fixed back provides consistent support," he noted. "However, the seat angle is flat, offering no passive recline for relaxation."
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Very affordable | Frame flexes under weight |
| Clean, versatile design | Fabric feels thin |
| Lightweight and easy to move | Legs can loosen over time |
| Decent initial comfort | Seat cushion is not reversible |
Details:
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Price: $500 – $800
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Size: 76 inches wide
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Seat Depth: 22 inches
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Seat Height: 18 inches
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Cushion Firmness: Medium
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Frame Material: Eucalyptus Wood
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Fabric Type: Polyester
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Style: Mid-Century
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Assembly: Legs only
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Warranty: 1 Year
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Comfort | 4.0 | Decent for the price. |
| Support | 4.0 | Basic, consistent support. |
| Durability | 3.8 | Frame and fabric are entry-level. |
| Value | 4.6 | Hard to beat the price. |
| Overall | 4.1 | The budget pick. |
Compare Performance Scores of These Sofas
| Sofa | Overall Score | Seat Comfort | Back Support | Seat Depth Fit | Cooling | Durability | Ease of Movement |
| La Rosa | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 4.8 | 3.5 | 4.6 | 3.5 |
| Jack | 4.6 | 4.2 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.9 | 4.2 |
| Marcella | 4.4 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| Katherine | 4.2 | 3.8 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 3.5 | 4.5 |
| Alana | 4.1 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 3.8 | 4.8 |
The scores reveal that Jennifer Taylor excels in the mid-range "statement" category. The La Rosa and Jack score high on durability and style but lose points on cooling due to the heavy velvet. The Marcella is a niche specialist for support. The Katherine and Alana drop in durability scores, reflecting their lower price points and lighter construction.
Best Picks
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Best Jennifer Taylor Sofa for Style: Jack Tuxedo Sofa
This model earns the top spot for aesthetics. I found the clean lines and luxe velvet made my living room look instantly expensive, even if it is a firmer sit.
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Best Jennifer Taylor Sofa for Lounging: La Rosa Chesterfield
If you want to sprawl out, this is the winner. Marcus and I agreed that the deep seat and rolled arms provided the most substantial "couch" feel of the group.
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Best Jennifer Taylor Sofa for Reading: Marcella Sofa
This model offered the best upright support. Mia loved the high back for long reading sessions where she didn't want to slouch.
How to Choose the Jennifer Taylor Sofa?
Choosing the right Jennifer Taylor sofa requires balancing looks with use. If you are tall like Marcus, you must buy the La Rosa; the deep seat is the only one that will support your thighs fully. For small apartments, the Katherine sectional offers the most flexibility, though you sacrifice long-term durability.
If you have a formal living room, the Jack Tuxedo is perfect; it encourages upright conversation and looks stunning. For families with pets, be careful with the velvet; while durable, it attracts hair. The Marcella's tighter weave might be a safer bet. If you possess back pain, avoid the Katherine; the lack of support will hurt you. Stick to the Marcella or Jack for the necessary rigidity.
Limitations
Jennifer Taylor sofa models are primarily designed for aesthetics first, comfort second. The "firm" seat description is consistent across the brand; do not expect a sink-in, cloud-like experience from any of these models. The velvet, while beautiful, is a magnet for dust and pet hair, requiring weekly maintenance. Furthermore, the low back trend on their most popular models (Jack, La Rosa) means neck support is non-existent, which is a dealbreaker for serious TV watchers. Finally, the warranty is generally limited to one year, which is standard for this price point but low compared to premium brands.
Is the Jennifer Taylor Sofa worth it?
The investment in a Jennifer Taylor sofa is worth it if you want a high-end look on a budget.
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The La Rosa and Jack offer incredible visual value; guests will think you spent triple the price.
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The construction on the higher-end models is surprisingly solid; the frames don't squeak or wobble.
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However, the value drops on the entry-level models like the Katherine; you can feel the cost-cutting in the cushions.
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If you need a daily driver for a family of four, these might be too firm and formal. For a stylish apartment or sitting room, they are a steal.
FAQs
1. Is the velvet on the Jack sofa easy to clean?
Yes. We spilled water on it, and it beaded up. A quick blot removed it. However, oil-based stains will be harder to remove.
2. Does the La Rosa sofa feel like a rock?
It is firm, but the springs give it some bounce. It is not a rock, but it is definitely not a pillow.
3. Is the Katherine sectional reversible?
Yes. The chaise cushion and ottoman can be moved to either side. It is very flexible.
4. How hard is the assembly for the Alana?
Very easy. You just screw in the four legs. It takes five minutes.
5. Does the Marcella sofa have a comfortable back?
Yes, for sitting upright. The curve supports the shoulders well. But it is not for lounging back.
6. Can I sleep on the Jack sofa?
Only if you are short. The high arms restrict length, and the bench seat is narrow. It is not a great guest bed.
7. Do the buttons on the La Rosa pop off?
We tugged on them, and they stayed tight. They are anchored well into the frame.
