Updated: May 22, 2023
Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.
To provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date cost figures, we gather information from a variety of pricing databases, licensed contractors, and industry experts.Chairs see a lot of wear and tear. Over time, the fabric becomes faded or stained, and the padding can become flat or lumpy. The frame of a chair can also become loose or damaged. If you want to recycle an old piece of furniture and turn it into a brand new piece, reupholstering is a great way of giving the chair its old shine back. It will look better and be more comfortable. The process involves removing and replacing the fabric, decorative trim, and stuffing. It is a great way to add personal style to a room while being less expensive than buying a new chair.
The national average cost to reupholster a chair is between $300 and $1,000.
Most people pay an average of $650 for a typical padded back, single cushion, leather arm chair that is picked up and delivered directly to your door when complete. At the low end, a single cotton bar stool costs about $60. At the high end, you can pay up to $2,000 to reupholster a silk recliner with decorative nail heads. The price includes delivery to and from the upholsterer.
The average price to reupholster a chair ranges from $10 to $100 per yard, depending on the type of fabric you want to use. Materials made from natural fibers are more expensive than synthetic. This is because synthetic fabrics are man-made and widely available year-round. Natural fibers are typically made from animal products or plant-based items. You can also choose from organic or recycled natural fibers. Each type of fabric has its own advantages and disadvantages. Natural fabrics like cotton and wool are breathable and comfortable but also susceptible to staining and wear over time. On the other hand, synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are more durable and easy to maintain. However, they often feel less comfortable than natural fabrics. The best fabric for your chair upholstery project will vary depending on your needs and preferences. Those looking for a fabric that is easy to care for may prefer synthetic fabrics, while those looking for a more comfortable option may prefer natural fabrics.
Material Cost Synthetic $10 - $70 Natural $10 - $100Expect to spend between $10 and $70 per yard for synthetic fabrics. Synthetic fabrics offer many benefits, making them great for chair upholstery. They are often more durable than natural fabrics, which means they last longer and resist wear and tear better. Synthetic fabrics are also more resistant to stains than natural fabrics, making them a good choice if you have kids or pets. Finally, synthetic fabrics are often more resistant to fading than natural fabrics, so they look newer for longer.
Several different synthetic fabrics can be used for chair upholstery, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Polyester is one of the most popular options thanks to its low cost and high durability. However, it pills and does not always provide a comfortable seating surface. Acrylic is another popular choice, offering good color retention and resistance to shrinking and wrinkling. However, acrylic fabrics can be less durable than polyester and may not hold up to heavy use. Vinyl is a durable option often used in high-traffic areas such as kitchens and dining rooms. However, vinyl can be difficult to clean and may not provide as much comfort as other fabrics. Nylon, faux leather, olefin, and cotton blends are also popular. When choosing a synthetic fabric for chair upholstery, you must consider your needs and priorities. Here are the most popular options and their costs.
Material Cost per Yard (Materials Only) Nylon $10 - $15 Faux Leather $10 - $20 Polyester $10 - $45 Faux Suede $15 - $25 Olefin $15 - $35 Crypton $20 - $40 Chenille $20 - $45 Sunbrella $25 - $45 Cotton Blend $25 - $50 Twill $30 - $60 Acrylic $35 - $50 Rayon $40 - $60 Velvet $50 - $70Depending on the natural fabric you use for reupholstery, the chair upholstery costs between $10 and $100 per yard for the material only. Natural fabrics are easy to care for, requiring only a simple vacuum or brushing away to get rid of any dirt or dust. In addition, natural fabrics are breathable, which regulates temperature and prevents moisture build-up. This is particularly important in hot climates or rooms with poor ventilation.
When upholstering furniture, there is a wide range of natural fabric options. Cotton is popular because it is durable and easy to maintain. Linen is another popular option because it has a luxurious feel and can be found in various colors. Silk is another possibility, although it is more delicate than cotton or linen and may require dry cleaning. Wool is an option for chair reupholstery, although it may be more expensive than other fabrics. Other materials like mohair, denim, bamboo, suede, leather, and cotton blends can be used to reupholster an old chair. The best natural fabric for chair upholstery varies depending on the specific needs of the user. The table below presents the most popular natural fabrics for reupholstery and their costs.
Material Cost per Yard (Materials Only) Cotton $10 - $30 Linen Blend $15 - $30 Linen $20 - $35 Mohair $20 - $80 Suede $25 - $40 Denim $25 - $50 Bamboo $25 - $50 Cotton Blend $25 - $60 Leather $40 - $70 Silk $50 - $100 Wool $60 - $100
Invalid zip code
The labor cost to recover a chair ranges from $50 to $650, depending on the chair type. It should come as no surprise that different types of chairs, their styling, and the ease of upholstery come into play when figuring the price to reupholster. Obviously, a large chair will cost more than a small chair because it will require more time and dedication to reupholster. Also, intricate details take more time and fabric to refurbish, which increases the price that you pay the upholsterer. The table below shows the average labor costs to reupholster different types of chairs.
Chair Type Cost (Labor Only) Cost (Material Only) Total Cost Bar Stool $50 - $150 $5 - $100 $55 - $250 Dining Chair $50 - $150 $5 - $100 $55 - $250 Footstool $50 - $200 $20 - $300 $70 - $500 Office Chair $100 - $250 $20 - $300 $120 - $550 Parson’s Chair $150 - $250 $20 - $400 $170 - $650 Tub Chair $150 - $350 $20 - $400 $170 - $750 Bergere Chair $150 - $350 $20 - $300 $170 - $650 Slipper Chair $200 - $400 $20 - $400 $220 - $800 Club Chair $250 - $400 $30 - $500 $280 - $900 Arm Chair $250 - $600 $30 - $500 $280 - $1,100 Wingback Chair $300 - $600 $60 - $800 $360 - $1,400 Recliner $400 - $650 $60 - $1,000 $460 - $1,650The cost to reupholster a bar stool ranges from $50 to $150 and depends on the stool’s design. To reupholster the bar stool, the contractor will remove the old upholstery and padding from the stool. Next, they will cut the new fabric to size and glue, staple, or use tacks to secure it in place. Finally, the reupholstered will add new padding and reattach the legs. A rounded bar stool with only a padded seat falls at the low end of the cost spectrum but a bar stool with a back or arms that are padded can cost more to reupholster. The chair's shape also impacts the price. Some barstools are not round but oblong or rectangular, so they take more time and material to upholster.
The cost to reupholster a dining chair ranges from $50 to $150. The price depends on several factors such as the amount of material used and the type. The first step to reupholster the dining chair is to remove the old fabric by carefully unscrewing the staples or cutting the fabric along the seams. Once the old fabric is removed, the reupholsterer will measure the chair and cut the new fabric to size, and adding an extra inch or two around the edges to allow for trimming. They will put new fabric in place and secure it to the chair with staples or upholstery tacks. Most dining chairs are easy to upholster and do not require a great deal of time. They usually have a single padded seat, so they use approximately half a yard of fabric. On occasion, a dining chair might also have a fabric back that needs to be reupholstered too, which will increase the cost.
The cost to reupholster a footstool ranges from $50 to $100. The price varies due to the style of the footstool. A rotund stool that boasts ample padding all the way around requires more material than a stool with wooden legs and only an upholstered top. Buttons and nails are other things that drive the cost of the reupholstery job higher. Also, antique footstools take longer to reupholster to maintain the chair’s vintage appearance and character.
The cost to reupholster an office chair ranges from $100 to $250. Office chairs have more padding and fabric on them, so they cost more than dining chairs. Similar to dining chairs, the professional will first remove the padding and fabric but starting from the back of the chair. They will cut the new fabric to size and secure it in place with staples or upholstery tacks. If only the bottom of the chair is padded, the price falls at the lower end of the spectrum. However, if the sides, arms, and back are cushioned and upholstered, the price will increase to the higher end because it requires more material to complete the job. In addition, the amount of padding within the chair impacts the final cost. Office chair sizes vary from modest to larger models that can support a great deal of weight.
The price to reupholster a Parsons chair averages from $150 to $250. It might seem like a simple, straightforward chair design, but it requires material on the seat and chair back. The angles of the chair’s design make it a medium-hard task to achieve. Normally, it will take from two to four yards of fabric to complete the task depending on the size of the chair. Parsons chairs often have unique trim that must be upholstered to match and drive the cost up to the higher end of the spectrum.
The cost to reupholster a tub chair ranges from $150 to $350. The chair’s design is typically small and rounded with a cushioned seat and possibly cushion back and arms. Depending on the actual style, it can use from two to four yards of fabric. It is fairly easy to upholster, so it does not require a great deal of time. Other factors that impact the price are the amount of padding in the chair and the size of the cushions. The more padding and the larger the chair, the more material that is needed to complete the task.
The average cost to reupholster a Bergere chair is $150 to $350. The amount of padding in the back and the chair cushion impact the price. Typically, the back and the single cushion will need to be reupholstered. Also, the chair is often a vintage piece, so it will require a longer amount of time to reupholster to help preserve its workmanship. The chair usually takes two to three yards of fabric. Newer models of the Bergere chair are typically easier to reupholster than antiques.
The cost to reupholster a slipper chair ranges from $200 to $400. Although the classic slipper chair is armless, it is very cushioned and requires more material than other chairs. Usually, it takes two to four yards of fabric to complete the slipper chair. In addition, the swooping design of the chair makes it fall into the medium difficulty range, so it takes time to complete the upholstery task and make it look acceptable.
A club chair, often called a skirted club chair, costs $250 to $400 for reupholstery. The higher cost is because the chairs' larger size takes more fabric. The square shape of the chair makes the task of medium difficulty. It takes three to five yards of fabric to complete the job, depending on the club chair’s size and the amount of padding in the chair. Usually, the design is very robust and often has buttons that make it a timely reupholstery job.
The cost to reupholster armchair ranges from $250 to $600. The large, cushioned chair has arms, pillows, and a padded back that require yards of fabric. Depending on the chair’s size, it can take from three to five yards of fabric to complete the upholstery of the chair. The curves of the chair and the amount of padding are all factors that make the task have a medium difficulty level. The time required accounts for the higher price to reupholster this chair style than a typical dining chair.
The cost to reupholster a wingback chair averages $300 to $600. The chair is usually very large and overstuffed, so it requires ample material to cover its girth. Most wingback chairs take from six to eight yards of fabric to complete the job. Depending on the design, it can have very ornate framing and detailing, making the upholstery task time consuming and very difficult. Often the wingback chair is an antique, so it will take even longer to complete.
The cost to reupholster a lazy boy recliner or a standard recliner averages $400 to $650. Most recliners are overstuffed with more than one cushion, requiring a great deal of fabric to complete the job. The internal mechanisms and footrest are also typically covered in fabric. The amount of fabric to reupholster a recliner ranges from six to ten yards. It is a difficult and time-consuming task. The chair often has buttons, rivets, nailheads, and trim, which all have to be factored into the job, making it a hard chair to upholster.
The labor price to reupholster a chair ranges from $50 to $100 per hour for an experienced reupholsterer. In addition to the labor cost to have a chair reupholstered, you have to factor in the material cost, ranging from $10 to $100 per yard. It can take under an hour to reupholster a single cushion chair or as many as ten hours for an antique recliner. However, the chair might be reupholstered in high-end fabric and increase the cost of the job.
The first step in reupholstering a chair is to remove the old fabric. This can be done by carefully removing the existing upholstery or cutting it away with a sharp knife. Once the reupholsterer has removed the old fabric, the next step is to measure and cut the new fabric. They make sure that the new fabric is cut slightly larger than the chair to allow for any necessary adjustments. Once the new fabric has been cut, they start attaching it to the chair. Depending on the chair, this can be done by gluing or using staples or upholstery tacks. Once the reupholsterer has secured the new fabric, the final step is to put any trimming or piping in place. This gives the finished product a polished look.
If the professional works within your home, expect to spend an additional $50 to $150 for the service call. If they are reupholstering a bigger piece or multiple chair pieces they have to transport to their workshop, this may incur an additional $100 to $300 for transportation fees. The upholsterer usually includes the disposal of materials in the price of their services. Hiring a professional ensures that the job is completed quickly with a fine piece of furniture when they are done. Overall, it is always better to have a professional carry out reupholstery jobs.
Custom chair cushion reupholstery costs from $50 to $200 per piece, depending on the amount of fabric needed to complete the task and the type of cushion. Also, if the cushion needs additional filling, then that increases the expense. Sometimes a chair cushion needs new foam because the foam has lost its padding and form or has been damaged by animal chewing or spills. New foam costs from $100 to $300, depending on the type and amount needed for a plush recliner. The cost to reupholster an outdoor cushion is comparable to an indoor chair cushion.
Invalid zip code
Some chairs require repairing, which costs between $50 and $400, depending on what is needed. If the springs have broken down, the professional can respring them for $50 to $200. Sags, lumps, and bad springs are the foundation of any reupholstery job and must be taken care of during the chair’s upholstery. Sometimes adding new springs or extra stuffing solves the problem and keeps the chair from caving when you sit down. If the chair has surface damage, it may require refinishing, costing $100 to $400. However, remember that any tufting, cutting, sewing, stuffing, or respringing will drive up the labor costs depending on the time required to fix the chair.
Sometimes, even if you adore the chair, it cannot be reupholstered if the chair’s frame is broken. The legs and back of the chair can also be damaged. In such situations, there is no way to repair the chair safely. Often a recliner’s interior mechanisms fail or break. The chair’s parts might be obsolete or simply unrepairable, and the chair has to be thrown away. However, not all chair repairs are hopeless. Some can be fixed by a qualified furniture repair person.
The cost to reupholster a chair depends on the amount of time it takes to complete the task. A large chair, such as a recliner, takes a great deal more material than a small dining room chair. Also, some chairs contain more padding than others. They require more fabric to complete the job, so the material is not stretched too tightly over the stuffing. On some chairs, even the buttons require reupholstery with matching fabric.
When buying materials for reupholstering a chair, the width of upholstery fabric is typically 54 inches. A straight-back or dining room chair uses very little fabric. A yard will likely reupholster two of these types of chairs. Always measure the seat at the widest point when determining the amount of material needed to complete the task. Below is a price table covering the most common chair reupholstery jobs and the amount of fabric needed to complete each task.
Chair Type Yards of Fabric Needed Bar Stool 0.5 - 1 Dining Chair 0.5 - 1 Office Chair 2 - 3 Footstool 2 - 3 Bergere Chair 2 - 3 Tub Chair 2 - 4 Parsons Chair 2 - 4 Slipper Chair 2 - 4 Arm Chair 3 - 5 Club Chair 3 - 5 Wingback Chair 6 - 8 Recliner 6 - 10Many things must be considered when deciding between buying a new chair or reupholstering your current one. Many people have a piece of furniture that has been in the family for generations and has sentimental value. Reupholstering can be a great way to give it a fresh, new look while preserving a piece of family history. The cost of reupholstery depends on the age of the chair. Some antique pieces require more attention. Also, the fabric cost per yard varies. Many people also opt to have their furniture reupholstered because it costs less than buying new. You might need to reupholster the chair because you have a dining set with six chairs, but only one needs reupholstering. You cannot buy a new matching chair, so reupholstering is a good alternative. Additionally, if you are renovating and want to keep the old furniture, reupholstering the chairs is a more affordable way of matching them to the new interior without buying new ones.
Reupholstering also makes the chair more comfortable. However, if the chair's frame is damaged or there are some problems with the springs or stuffing, the chair may remain uncomfortable or cost more to repair. Reupholstering takes time, and sometimes, the chair lasts less time than it did because of inferior fabric or workmanship. Finally, as an added benefit, reupholstering is eco-friendly because it is better for the environment than discarding the chair into a landfill.
Take care of your newly reupholstered chair and extend its life with some simple tips. Use protective treatments for your fabric, like scotch-guarding, and products to protect the wooden surfaces of your chair from stains, scratches, tears, and other wear and tear. Ask your local hardware retailer for some protective stain and treatment product options. Make sure to reapply regularly for best results. Also, only use cleaning solvents made for the fabric that you have used to cover your chair. The wrong cleaners can be too harsh and damage the fabric.
It is a good idea to have the chair professionally cleaned from time to time. Professional cleaning services cost $15 to $100 to clean the upholstery of your chair. Deter pets from scratching or climbing on your reupholstered chair by investing in a dedicated scratching post. Flip your chair cushions from time to time to wear consistently. Vacuum the chair well, but no more than once a week, or you risk wearing down the fibers prematurely. Position your chair where it is out of direct sunlight, which can fade its surface.
Invalid zip code
The cost to replace the chair's padding can cost around $25. Two brand new foam chair cushion pads range from $40 to $75 per cushion. Replacing the chair pads will make the chair more comfortable and give it a newer, more robust appearance. Also, newer cushions have been designed to hold their shape and form longer, so your chair will look new for longer after the reupholstering.
If you want to give your chair a distinctive or vintage feel, consider enhancing it with decorative touches, like buttons, nailheads, or tufting, which will also increase costs. Depending on your choice, you could spend between $10 and $500 to adorn and embellish your chair. There are several options for adding decorative touches to your chair. You can add decorative trim for furniture such as nail heads, fringe, or brading, which costs $10 per yard. Tufting provides a more comfortable, overstuffed look. However, it requires more labor, so it is at the higher end of the cost scale. Simply adding hammered nail heads is quick and easy, requiring less labor.
Sometimes, you will save money if you have an upholster reupholster more than one piece of furniture at a time. It typically costs $750 to $3,500 to reupholster a couch, depending on size, fabric, and design. Often if you have a matching recliner or chair reupholstered at the same time, then you’ll save a little money. Always ask for an estimate to determine how much the job will cost if you have more than one piece reupholstered.
Reupholstering your headboard and bed range in price from $200 to $2,000. depending on the material and bed size. A twin bed is cheaper than a California king. Also, the type of material used on the headboard, trim, buttons, braiding, and other decor increase the price. In some cases, the headboard and bed might need extra foam or spring repair, impacting the final cost.
It depends on the type of furniture being reupholstered and the material being used. In many cases, it is cheaper to reupholster than buy new quality furniture. Also, if you have antiques, it is very costly to replace a classic piece. It is always cheaper to reupholster.
The cost to reupholster a wingback chair averages $360 to $1,500. The front, sides, arms, and cushions undergo reupholstery, and additional padding is added if needed.
It costs around $460 to $1,650 to recover a recliner if there is no significant damage to the frame or mechanisms. If additional repairs are needed, the cost will be higher.
For odd-shaped or complex projects, like a corner chair, working with a professional upholsterer is best. These experts have the tools and equipment necessary for the job to ensure the best results.
A simple seat can be covered using the old cover as a template and cutting fabric to fit. It is typically secured with staples underneath the seat before reattaching to the chair’s frame. For more complicated upholstery projects, contact a professional.
Repairing and reupholstering a chair are different projects. If the damage to the chair is purely cosmetic, then reupholstering may be all that is necessary. This involves removing the old fabric and replacing it with new material. On the other hand, if the structure of the chair is damaged, repair work will be required. This could include anything from fixing a broken leg to reinforcing a weakened frame.
Written by
Jennifer Carlson
October 20, 2023
Edited by
Tara Farmer
Fact-checked by
Kristen Cramer
The cost to reupholster a chair is $200 to $1,500 on average, depending on the size, style, and fabric. The cost to reupholster a dining chair is $100 to $250. The cost to simply recover a chair is less than chair reupholstery cost, which includes replacing the fabric, padding, and support systems.
Average cost to reupholster a chair - ChartAverage cost to reupholster a chairNational Average Cost$900Minimum Cost$50Maximum Cost$2,000Average Range$200 to $1,500Get free estimates from furniture upholsterers near you.
Search
The cost to reupholster a chair depends on the type. Armchairs, wingback chairs, recliners, or any chair made with leather will cost more to reupholster than a simple barstool or dining chair.
Cost to reupholster a chair by type Chair type Average cost Armchair $300 – $1,500 Barstool $50 – $300 Bergère chair $200 – $450 Club chair $300 – $900 Dining chair $100 – $250 Footstool $70 – $500 Leather chair $800 – $2,000 Office chair $200 – $700 Parsons chair $200 – $600 Recliner $450 – $1,500 Slipper chair $250 – $800 Tub or barrel chair $400 – $800 Wingback chair $400 – $2,000 Classic antique chairs reupholstered in leatherArmchairs cost $300 to $1,500 to reupholster and are available in many sizes, shapes, and styles. The larger the armchair, the more expensive it will be to reupholster. Reupholstering an armchair typically requires 3 to 5 yards of fabric, depending on whether it has roll arms, pillow tops, or cushions.
Reupholstering a bar stool costs $50 to $300, depending on the size and the amount of fabric and padding needed. Barstools with a padded back or armrest cost more than stools with a simple padded seat.
A bergère chair costs $200 to $450 to reupholster and usually needs 2 to 3 yards of fabric. A French bergère chair is an armchair with an upholstered back and closed armrests. Many bergère chairs are antiques, so they require extra time and care.
Club chairs cost $300 to $900 to reupholster and usually need 3 to 5 yards of fabric. Club chairs, also called smoking chairs, are usually made of leather. Some club chairs have buttons that take a while to remove and replace, which increases labor costs.
The cost to upholster dining chairs is $100 to $250 each, depending on the size and type of fabric. Some dining room chairs have only a cushioned seat covered in fabric, while some have upholstered backs. Reupholstering a dining chair seat usually requires half a yard of fabric.
Reupholstering a footstool costs $70 to $500, depending on the style. A footstool with only an upholstered top costs less to reupholster than a footstool with material and padding surrounding the entire stool, which would need 2 to 3 yards of fabric.
Leather chair reupholstery costs $800 to $2,000, depending on the size and style. Leather is more expensive than other fabrics but can last for many years with proper care. Homeowners with pets should consider avoiding leather furniture because dog or cat claws easily damage the material, resulting in costly repairs.
The cost to reupholster an office chair is $200 to $700. Larger office chairs with heavily padded backs, armrests, and seats require more material and cost more to reupholster than simple office chairs that just have a padded seat.
A Parsons chair costs $200 to $600 to reupholster and is a type of armless dining room chair with a padded back and seat. Reupholstering Parsons chairs typically requires 2 to 4 yards of fabric. The clean lines and sharp angles of the design make these chairs somewhat difficult to reupholster.
Reupholstering a recliner costs $450 to $1,500, depending on the size, style, and fabric. Reupholstering a recliner is time-consuming and requires more padding and fabric than average to cover the chair, footrest, and additional cushions. Reupholstering a recliner takes 6 to 10 yards of fabric.
A slipper chair costs $250 to $800 to reupholster and is a wide chair with a high back, no arms, and short legs. Slipper chairs often have more cushioning than average, which requires additional material to reupholster.
Tub chairs, also called barrel chairs, cost $400 to $800 to reupholster. This chair has a curved back that wraps around the seat to form the armrests. Reupholstering tub chairs typically takes 2 to 4 yards of fabric, depending on the amount of padding.
Wingback chairs cost $400 to $2,000 to reupholster. These chairs have curved “wings” on the side to shield from drafts and typically need 6 to 8 yards of fabric to reupholster. Wingback chairs can cost much more than other chairs because they’re usually larger, older, and have more ornate detailing.
A stylish chair reupholstered in new gray fabricAsk the reupholsterer if they offer any discounts for bundling. If your couch or other chairs need to be reupholstered, you could save money by getting them done at the same time.
Reupholstering a chair costs $10 to $100 per yard for fabric alone. This does not include labor or other materials like padding, buttons, caning, or trim.
Cost to reupholster a chair by fabric Fabric type Price per yard (materials only) Acrylic $40 – $70 Bamboo $25 – $50 Chenille $20 – $45 Cotton $10 – $30 Cotton blend $25 – $60 Crypton $20 – $40 Denim $25 – $50 Faux leather $10 – $20 Faux suede $15 – $25 Leather $40 – $70 Linen $20 – $35 Linen blend $15 – $30 Mohair $20 – $80 Nylon $10 – $15 Olefin $15 – $35 Polyester $10 – $45 Rayon $40 – $60 Silk $60 – $100 Suede $25 – $40 Sunbrella $25 – $45 Twill $30 – $60 Velvet $50 – $70 Wool $60 – $100Natural fabrics include cotton, linen, silk, denim, bamboo, wool, leather, suede, and mohair. Silk, wool, and leather typically cost more or require a professional who knows how to handle such fabrics. Cotton and cotton blends are durable and easy to maintain.
Synthetic fabrics include polyester, acrylic, vinyl, olefin, nylon, and faux leather. Some synthetic fabrics are budget-friendly, stain-resistant, and more durable than natural fabrics, but some are prone to pilling and cracking. Vinyl fabric is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like dining rooms and kitchens.
Buying your own fabric can help save money on material markups and ensure you get a pattern or style you like.
A set of Baroque dining chairs reupholstered with new fabric and cushion stuffingThe following factors affect the overall reupholstery cost:
Fabric amount – Reupholstering chairs typically takes 1 to 10 yards of fabric, depending on the type and size of the chair. The more material needed, the more the reupholstery job will cost.
Antiques – Antique chair upholstery can save quality furniture from the landfill. However, it takes extra time and care, leading to higher prices.
Transportation – The upholstery shop may charge a travel fee if your chair is too large to fit into your car and needs to be transported to and from the shop. Having it professionally moved can cost $100 to $300 extra.
Padding – Flattened, worn out padding costs $25 to $75 per cushion to replace, depending on the size and fill material.
Recovering vs. reupholstering – Recovering furniture means simply removing the old fabric and putting on new fabric without replacing anything else. Reupholstering means replacing the fabric, padding, and support systems.
Bundling – You may be able to get a better deal if you bundle reupholstery services.
Reupholstering a couch costs $600 to $2,000 for a two-cushion couch or $2,000 to $4,000 for a large sectional.
Other furniture reupholstery costs $400 to $1,700 on average.
Upholstery professionals charge $40 and $100 per hour for labor, depending on the chair type, material, and the level of difficulty. This fee typically includes:
Tear down
Minor frame repair
Adding new support systems
Retying springs
Replacing the padding and fabric
Professional upholsterers often offer additional services, both structural and decorative. Furniture repair costs $100 to $500 for chairs and may include multiple services like fabric cleaning, frame refinishing, and spring or padding replacement. The final cost depends on the changes made or the extent of the damage.
Get free estimates from furniture upholsterers near you.
Search
Chair repair costs Repair type Average cost Refinishing chair frames $150 – $200 Retying seat springs (living room chairs) $100 – $300 Regluing dining room or kitchen chairs $100 – $150 Replacing cushion stuffing (goose down) $100 – $200 Replacing cushion stuffing (foam) $25 – $75Reupholstering a chair or stool takes 1 to 10 yards of fabric, depending on the style:
Reupholstery fabric needed Chair type Fabric needed (yards) Armchairs 3 – 5 Bergere 2 – 3 Club 3 – 5 Parsons 2 – 4 Recliner 6 – 10 Stools 1 – 3 Tub/barrel 2 – 4 Wingback 6 – 8Reupholstering a chair is worth it if the chair is in good condition, or if it would cost more to replace it than have it reupholstered. This includes high-end furniture, antiques, or family heirlooms. Chairs with sturdy frames that don’t need any other repairs are excellent candidates for reupholstery.
Reupholstering your chair often costs less than buying new and allows you to customize your space, restore antiques, and use furniture for longer periods of time.
Reupholstering a chair takes 1 to 10 hours on average. However, some professionals are in high demand and could take 2 to 3 weeks or more to complete your project. If your reupholstery job is time-sensitive, consider buying new furniture or temporarily using a chair cover.
Chair upholstery lasts 7 to 15 years, depending on the material quality and how often it’s used. High-quality chairs with solid wood frames and dense cushions last longer than average.
You can get a chair reupholstered at a professional upholstery shop. You can find independent upholstery shops and services near you online. Some major furniture retailers offer reupholstery services, too.
DIY chair upholstery is possible but requires considerable skill and patience. Beginners may be able to reupholster a dining chair seat or a backless barstool but may struggle with a wingback chair or recliner.
When looking for an upholstery company near you, follow these steps:
Ask about their experience and qualifications.
Request a list of references from past clients.
Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Compare 3+ quotes from different companies.
Make sure their availability matches your desired timeframe.
Never pay in full until the job is completed.
Ask these questions to find the best possible reupholstery professional:
Are you licensed and insured?
How long have you been in the reupholstery business?
What are your rates?
Do you have a portfolio of projects you’ve completed?
Have you worked on chairs similar to this one?
Is it possible for you to match the fabric on the chair?
Is this chair a suitable candidate for reupholstery?
What kind of repairs might the chair need?
Is the chair’s structure in good condition?
How long will it take for you to finish the reupholstery?
Will you reuse or replace the existing cushions?
What are my options for customizations?
What is your payment plan?
How we get this data
We use our proprietary database of project costs, personally contact industry experts to compile up-to-date pricing and insights, and conduct in-depth research to ensure accuracy in all our guides.
The company is the world’s best Fresh bamboo leaves bulk orders, Green Bamboo Leaves, Dried Bamboo Leaves for Philippines supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.