When it comes to deciding whether it's worthwhile to reupholster your couch, your best course of action depends on a few considerations that take into account time and effort.
Avoiding discarding the sofa by salvaging it and reupholstering instead is the more sustainable option, but reupholstering an old sofa could actually end up costing you more than you would pay for a new one.
You could also go the DIY route and reupholster your couch yourself, which is a more budget-friendly option than having it done professionally.
However, it's a difficult and time-consuming project to take on. Ultimately, opting to reupholster your couch and going to such an expense is generally only worthwhile under a few conditions. Here are some reupholstering tips to consider.
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Reupholstering Cost
The standard cost to reupholster varies based on the couch's size and the fabric you select. With that said, depending on the material, you could be charged anywhere between $12 a yard to $200 or more a yard.
Keep in mind that professionals might charge you more if the couch fabric you select is difficult to work with. It's a good idea to get quotes from two or three different upholsterers for all fabric and parts.
Is Reupholstering Worth It?
If the piece of furniture is high quality, one-of-a-kind, or sentimental, reupholstering is probably worth it. Essentially, it depends on how much you like the piece and if, when the reupholstering cost is weighed against the cost of a new sofa, it feels worth it to you.
If you go ahead with reupholstering, clean the upholstery frequently to maintain the refurbished look and make your hard work worth it.
Reupholstering vs. Recovering
There is a difference between re-covering and reupholstering your sofa. Re-covering involves just replacing the fabric, and it is more of a cosmetic procedure.
Reupholstering could involve replacing other parts of the couch. Recovering works well when the structure of the sofa and the foam that makes up the seats and frame are still in good shape. All you need is new fabric.
Reupholstering is the better choice when the entire sofa needs to be remade.
Professional Reupholstering vs. DIY
A full reupholstering job would include the replacement of padding and springs, mending the frame, or re-staining any wood, as well as replacing the fabric.
It's not just an aesthetic upgrade, it's refurbishing the entire couch, structure, and all. The amount of time required for this DIY project varies based on how much of a transformation you want.
If you're not confident in your ability to achieve a perfect finish or you don't have time to commit to this DIY project, it might be worth it to bring in a professional. Reupholstering is not easy—it involves skilled labor, replacement of material, and getting a finish that looks polished.
Typically, you'll pay between $40 and $100 per hour for the labor for reupholstering.
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Best Furniture to Reupholster
Some couches are better candidates for reupholstery than others. If the couch is an antique or well-constructed, reupholstery is a good way to upgrade and maintain your piece. Here are other qualities to look for in your couch to determine whether or not it's worth reupholstering.
- Good construction: If you have a high-quality couch made from solid wood or featuring intricate curves and lines, it's worth reupholstering. If it doesn't rock during use, is not warped or cracked, and if it's made with 8-way hand-tied springs, these are also things you should take note of.
- Recognizable brand name: There are some names in furniture that are valued year after year. If you have one of these pieces, then it could be worth reupholstering your sofa since you know you can trust its construction, and you would pay more to buy a new one.
- Valuable antique: If the couch dates back more than a century and you've already invested money in it, reupholstering makes sense. In this case, it's safer to hire a qualified professional.
- Eco-conscious: Reupholstering your couch may be the most eco-conscious choice. While you're still utilizing new materials (like seat foam and fabric), you're also keeping a piece of furniture out of a landfill and giving it new life.
- Family heirloom: If the sofa has been in your family for a while and is a prized possession with history and sentimental value, it may be worth saving.
Alternatives to Reupholstering
If you are just tired of the fabric you have right now but don’t want to invest in a new piece of furniture, you may want to look into slipcovers. These couch covers can be made to order these days through sites like Etsy, and they're an easy way to upgrade the look of your couch without springing for a full makeover.
If your sofa isn't actually in poor condition and you're just bored, you could also consider switching up your pillows. Sometimes a few new patterns and a cozy throw blanket are all you need for a completely refreshed feel.
FAQ
Can you reupholster yourself?
You can reupholster yourself, but it is difficult and time-consuming. It is sometimes more economical to reupholster yourself than it is to hire a professional, though you should take into account the cost of your own time and materials invested.
How much does it cost to reupholster a couch with fabric?
The cost to reupholster a couch is dependent on which fabric you select and how much of that fabric you need. With that said, expect to pay anywhere from $12 a yard to $200 or more a yard.
Is it better to reupholster or buy new?
It is better to reupholster if the couch is high quality, an antique, or a family heirloom. If the cost to reupholster is similar or more to the cost of a new couch, buying a new one should be considered.
How many hours does it take to reupholster a couch?
For a professional, it could take between eight and 12 hours to reupholster a couch. However, for a first-time DIYer, this could take far longer.
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