How to Reupholster a Couch

Reupholstering a piece of furniture changes the look and increases its lifespan. Many couches are designed in a way that it is easy to replace the fabric. Basic cloth cutting techniques and attention to detail are required for this project.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fabric
• Sewing machine
• Synthetic padding
• Colored pencil
• Staple gun

1. Measure the couch from all angles and note the dimensions. Purchase new fabric that matches the color scheme of your room and is strong enough to sustain daily wear and tear.

2. Remove the old fabric from the couch. Check the padding, frame and springs for damage. Tighten the springs if they seem loose. Reuse the existing padding if it is in good shape; otherwise, cover it with synthetic padding to secure the base.

3. Lay the new fabric flat on the floor and use a colored pencil to trace the cushion. Measure the cushion's length and width and leave one extra inch before cutting the cloth. Likewise, measure all sides of the couch once again and cut out the cloth in accordance with the dimensions obtained.

4. Attach the cloth to the frame of the couch using a staple gun. Secure it neatly to the couch in the same way the old cloth was fixed. Stretch the cloth gently to the opposite end. Stretch it to the point where there are no wrinkles, but don't pull too tight because the fabric will tear. Staple it into the padding. Repeat the same procedure with all the pieces of cloth until the whole couch is covered.

5. Sew together pieces of cloth which have been cut out in the shape of the cushions. Use a sewing machine to make slip covers which neatly fit the cushions. Use a zipper at the mouth of the slip cover so that it can be easily removed for a quick cleaning.

Tips & Warnings

• Iron the cloth before reupholstering the couch.
• Mark each piece of cloth so you don't have trouble identifying the right piece when reupholstering.
• If you don't want to tackle the project yourself, contact an upholstery service for a professional refurbishing.

[gilly1]

on 2/19/2009 It is easy to take on more than you want to - especially if the armchair or couch is a really old one (like from the 1920's, 30's or 40's etc.,) so seek advice from a professional upholsterer before you begin your project. They may be able to give you some really good advice. Be prepared to pay for them to put the springs in place for you - this is the dirtiest part of the job. Also - take a look out for any adult community evening courses which do upholstery courses. These courses are usually a very cheap way of getting useful information and getting your project started. :) Good luck!