DIY Reupholstery

Necessary Tools

• Reupholstering requires the use of many different tools. Not all projects will require all tools, but if you routinely reupholster furniture it's a good idea to have all of these materials on hand. The simplest projects, such as reupholstering a chair seat, requires the least amount of tools. All that is needed for this simple project are a pair of sharp scissors, upholstery fabric, a staple gun and staples, a measuring tape and a carpet knife. More complex projects such as reupholstering a sofa require the addition of some extra tools. These might include a chalk line, pliers, screwdrivers, fabric adhesive and a hand or table saw. Such tools smooth a big project like reupholstering a sofa. It's also a good idea to have some plywood on hand, in case you need to replace any damaged part. You may also need T nuts, which allow the attachment of bolts from the top of the furniture wood. This prevents screws from sticking out from under the boards when smaller boards and longer screws are used together.

Basic Process

• The basic process to recover a chair seat starts with removing the original fabric and cushioning. You can use these original materials as a guide for making the new covering. You can also use the furniture itself as a measurement guide. It is also possible to take a large sheet of fabric and cut it to size as you go along. After the new coverings and cushions are cut out for a chair seat, place them on the seat. Staple the fabric to the underside of the seat and tighten the fabric as you staple. You can add finishing touches such as sewing details or add extra material to cover any unsightly areas.

Helpful Tips

• Pay particular attention to patterns. Fabric placement is the key to professional-looking upholstery jobs. Try to align patterns in a complimentary or matching pattern. Make sure the pattern lines up straight with the furniture. You don't want an upholstery pattern that runs diagonally across a square chair seat. Of course, exceptions can be made for a visually interesting look. However, such placement should look deliberate so that it doesn't look haphazard. Pulling the fabric tight is also essential to a professional-looking job. One way to keep the fabric properly aligned while keeping a tight fit is to stretch the fabric over the top of the piece and then pin it into place. This keeps the fabric in place when you staple the fabric.