A Step-by-Step Guide to Reupholstering
Transform tired furniture into custom statement pieces
Don't discard that well-built but worn-out chair! Reupholstering breathes new life into quality furniture, allowing you to customize pieces to match your style perfectly. With some basic tools and patience, you can transform dated chairs, ottomans, or bench seats into designer-worthy pieces at a fraction of the cost of buying new.
What You'll Need
| Upholstery fabric (1-3 yards depending on piece) |
| Foam padding (if replacement needed) |
| Batting (polyester) |
| Staple gun and staples (3/8" or 1/2") |
| Staple remover or flat-head screwdriver |
| Fabric scissors |
| Pliers |
| Hammer |
| Upholstery tacks or decorative nailheads (optional) |
How To Do It
- Document the original - Take photos during each step of disassembly to use as reference later.
- Remove existing fabric - Flip the piece over and carefully remove staples or tacks with a staple remover or flat-head screwdriver and pliers.
- Save removed fabric pieces - Label and save the old fabric pieces to use as patterns for your new fabric.
- Evaluate the padding - Check if the foam needs replacing. If it's flattened or crumbling, replace it with new foam.
- Cut new fabric - Use the old pieces as templates, adding 2-3 inches extra on all sides for wrapping and stapling.
- Apply batting - Wrap the foam with batting to create smooth edges and a plush feel.
- Attach new fabric - Starting at the center of each side, staple the fabric to the underside of the seat, working outward and pulling fabric taut.
- Add finishing touches - Fold and staple corners neatly, add decorative nailheads if desired, and reattach the seat to the chair frame.
When selecting upholstery fabric, consider not just the color but the durability rating. Look for fabrics with a "double rub" count of 15,000+ for dining chairs and 25,000+ for frequently used pieces. For a designer touch, try mixing fabrics—use a solid for the seat and a complementary pattern for the chair back, or add contrast piping around the edges of your cushions.
