How to Reupholster a Victorian Love Seat

Remove upholstered cushions from the love seat. This usually means using a drill or screwdriver to detach the cushions from the love seat's frame. Other cushioned panels simply drop out of the frame when turned upside down. Other areas, such as the armrests, may not be completely removable from the frame.

Repair any damage to the love seat's frame. Sand out any imperfections in the wood, especially if you plan to paint or stain the piece. Replace any broken pieces or tighten springs with jute twine where needed. Add new upholstery foam or cotton batting as needed to make the cushions more plush and comfortable.

Remove the fabric from the original cushions. Do this as gently as possible so that you can salvage the fabric for use as a pattern. Pull the staples holding the fabric away from the underside of the cushion or chair frame. Use a chisel to carefully scrape away any glue holding the fabric in place.

Position your fabric pieces over your new upholstery fabric and trace. If you were not able to salvage the previous fabric, you need to create a new pattern by draping the sofa with muslin cloth and tracing out the shape for your pattern. If you are creating your own pattern, add several inches to all sides before cutting. Cut around your traced lines.

Drape the new fabric over the cushions or chair frame. Start at the center of the area you want to cover and work your way out evenly on either side, pulling the fabric taut and stapling in place. Because Victorian love seats have plenty of curves, you may want assistance holding the fabric taut while you staple the fabric.

Fold the fabric in slight pleats to help it lay flat. You may need to cut short slits in the fabric to prevent excess gathering and to create a sense of symmetry on the piece.

Replace the cushions on the love seat frame. Camouflage your seams with piping or decorative ribbon. This can be attached with pins or with a simple bead of hot glue. This type of piping, sometimes in a contrasting shade, was very common with Victorian-style furniture and can add to the quality of the piece.