How much does it Cost to Reupholster a Chair

Reupholstering a chair is a fantastic way to breathe new life into old furniture. Whether it’s a cherished heirloom, a thrift store finds, or just a well-loved piece that’s seen better days.

More reupholstering can give your chair a fresh look and extend its life.

But how much does it cost to reupholster a chair?

In this article, we’ll break down the factors that affect the cost and provide a detailed overview to help you budget for your reupholstery project.

Factors Influencing Reupholstery Costs : Reupholster a Chair

1. Type of Chair

The type of chair you want to reupholster significantly impacts the cost. Here’s a general idea:

• Dining Room Chairs: $50 to $250 each.
• Armchairs: $300 to $800.
• Wingback Chairs: $600 to $1,500.
• Recliners: $600 to $2,000.

2. Fabric Choice

The fabric you choose is another major cost factor. Fabrics vary widely in price per yard:

• Budget Fabrics: $10 to $30 per yard.
• Mid-Range Fabrics: $30 to $60 per yard.
• High-End Fabrics: $60 to $200+ per yard.

Most chairs require between 5 to 10 yards of fabric, depending on their size and style.

3. Labor Costs

Labor is a substantial part of reupholstery costs. Professional upholsterers charge based on complexity and time required:

• Simple Jobs: $50 to $100 per hour.
• Complex Jobs: $100 to $200 per hour.

On average, labor for reupholstering a chair can range from $300 to $700.

4. Additional Materials and Repairs

Other materials like foam, batting, and webbing, as well as any necessary repairs to the chair’s structure, can add to the cost:

• Foam Replacement: $50 to $150.
• Batting and Padding: $20 to $50.
• Structural Repairs: $50 to $150.

Cost Breakdown by Chair Type

Dining Room Chairs

• Fabric: 1 to 2 yards per chair.
• Labor: $50 to $100 per hour.
• Total Cost: $50 to $250 per chair.

Armchairs

• Fabric: 5 to 7 yards.
• Labor: $300 to $600.
• Total Cost: $300 to $800.

Wingback Chairs

• Fabric: 6 to 8 yards.
• Labor: $500 to $1,000.
• Total Cost: $600 to $1,500.

Recliners

• Fabric: 8 to 10 yards.
• Labor: $600 to $1,500.
• Total Cost: $600 to $2,000.

DIY Reupholstery: Is It Worth It?

If you’re handy and have some time on your hands, DIY reupholstery can save you a lot of money. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fabric: Cost varies.
• Tools: Staple gun, scissors, needle, and thread (around $50 to $100).
• Foam and Batting: $50 to $150.

While the material costs remain, you’ll save on labor, which can make DIY a cost-effective option.

Conclusion

Reupholstering a chair is a valuable investment in your furniture’s longevity and aesthetics.

The costs can vary widely based on the type of chair, fabric choice, labor, and additional materials or repairs.

On average, you can expect to pay between $50 and $2,000 to reupholster a chair.

By understanding these factors, you can better plan and budget for your reupholstery project, ensuring you get the best value and results for your investment.

Ready to give your old chair a new lease on life?

Whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional, reupholstering is a rewarding way to update your home decor.