Upholstered Sofa? Read this Before you Buy
Paul 
Are you tired of looking at your outdated sectional sofa and wish you could give it a fresh look? Look no further than reupholstering! We’ve heard this method is quite popular for bringing back sofas to life by allowing you to modify it to match your unique style and home decor. From choosing your paddings to the fabrics of your choice, it’s up to you! Let’s dive into the article to see the beauty of upholstered sofas
What is Reupholstery? Why do you need an Upholstered Sofa?
Reupholstery is the process of changing the sofa, such as a sectional, from its fabric, padding, and springs to turn into a newer one. It often involves replacing the old upholstery with curated materials or designs of your taste while maintaining the sofa’s comfort and durability.
Additionally, reupholstering a sectional sofa is a great way to transform its appearance without needing to buy a new furniture piece. This is a cost-effective solution that can allow you to personalize your sofa to match your style while on a budget! According to Lilu Interiors, it is a sustainable way of revamping furniture while making your home even more homey and stylish.
Assessing Your Upholstered Sectional Sofa
Before starting your project, it’s important to observe and assess the condition of your furniture, especially a sectional sofa. It is highly advisable to look for signs of wear and tear, such as torn fabric, sagging cushions, visible frame damage and even signs of mold!
As Kristi, founder and creative director of Grandeur on Grove, says, “The most important criterion when rehabbing old furniture is whether it has good bones.” If the frame of your sofa is sturdy, free from major damage, and the cushions are still comfortable, reupholstering may be the best option. However, if the frame is damaged beyond repair or if the sofa is visibly in poor condition, it may be better to invest in a new sectional sofa.
Choosing the Perfect Fabric for your Upholstered Sofa
Selecting the perfect fabric is one of the most exciting parts of reupholstering your sectional sofa. When deciding on the fabric, always consider factors such as durability, ease of cleaning, and how well the fabric will hold up to daily use. As interior design blogger Emily A. Clark mentioned in her blog post, she chose the fabric that would hide spills and the velvety look of the fabric that matched the art on her walls. A little reminder to consider that in choosing fabrics, you should choose the one that is durable but also suits your taste!
In addition, some popular fabric choices for sectional sofas include microfiber, leather, and performance fabrics. Microfiber is a durable and easy-to-clean option, while leather adds a classic, sophisticated look. Performance fabrics are usually designed to withstand heavy use and stains, making them a great choice for families with children or pets.
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The Cost of Reupholstery
Wondering about what would be the cost of reupholstering a sectional sofa? Prices vary greatly depending on the furniture size, fabric type, and how complicated the project would be. On average, reupholstering a sectional sofa can cost between $1,000 and $3,000.
In one of her blog posts, award-winning interior designer and decorator Linda Merrill shared that one of her chairs would easily retail for $3,500.00 and cost less than $1,200.00 to reupholster. With that information, we can conclude that reupholstering furniture is a cost-effective way to restore or enhance a furniture’s features. When in doubt, it is always beneficial to consult first with professional upholsterers and designers to get an accurate estimate based on your design in mind. By considering these factors, you can make a decision whether or not to reupholster your sofa.
| Type of Furniture | Cost Range ($) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sofa | $600 – $4,500 | Cost varies with size, fabric, and labor. Larger sectionals cost more |
| Armchair | $700 – $1,700 | Includes wingback and club chair |
| Dining Chair | $200 – $400 | Basic reupholstery; more for full restoration |
| Loveseat | $600 – $1,600 | Smaller than a sofa; cost depends on fabric and labor |
| Ottoman | $250 – $600 | Smaller items generally cost less |
| Chaise Lounge | $700 – $1,500 | Cost varies based on fabric and labor |
| Headboard | $200 – $2,000 | Larger and more complex designs cost more |
| Outdoor Cushions | $50 – $500 | Cost depends on size and fabric |
| Sectional Sofa | $2,000 – $4,000 | High-end fabrics and larger sizes increase costs |
| Recliner | $400 – $600 | Includes labor and basic materials |
| Footstool | $80 – $250 | Smaller items generally cost less |
Avrilynn 120.08” Upholstered Sofa (Beige Chenille)
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- Price: $880.00
- Store: Wayfair
- Delivery info: Free shipping
Avrilynn 120.08” Upholstered Sofa Wade Logan Fabric: Beige ChenilleWayfair$880.00
Luxe Oversized Two-Piece Upholstered Sectional Sofa (102.4-Inch L Shaped)
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Image Credit: https://www.amazon.com/Container-Furniture-Direct-102-4-Inch-Upholstered/dp/B0CK555G8Q?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&th=1
- Price: $1,193.83
- Store: Amazon.com
- Delivery info: Free shipping
$1193.83
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Mayview Barrett 85 inch Upholstered Wood Base Sofa (Cream)
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Image Credit: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Mayview-Upholstered-Wood-Base-Sofa-Cream/1597676130?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0
Price: $230.00
- Store: Walmart
- Delivery info: Free shipping
$230.00
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DIY vs. Professional Reupholstery
Can a sectional be reupholstered? The short answer is yes, you can reupholster a sectional sofa yourself. However, it is a time-consuming and challenging process that requires sewing skills and great attention to detail. One of the main benefits of DIY reupholstery is cost savings. You can save money by doing it yourself, as labor costs can be high with professional upholsterers. Additionally, you have complete control over the process and can customize your sectional sofa exactly how you want it.
On the downside, DIY reupholstery can be complicated and time-consuming for first-timers, especially if working with a large piece of furniture. There is also a risk of making mistakes that could compromise the look and comfort of your sofa. However, as Jeanette of Snazzy Little Things says, “Reupholstery is a puzzle. It’s a matter of deconstructing your piece one layer at a time.” A great reminder that all beautiful things are created with patience and willpower.
Adding Custom Touches
If you are not confident in your sewing skills or don’t have the time for a DIY project, hiring a professional upholsterer is the best decision. Professional upholsterers have years of experience to ensure your sofa looks fantastic and would last for years. Another benefit of hiring a professional is that they’ll guide you on fabric selection and design choices. As certified interior decorator Adrienne says, “When you decide to reupholster, you have unlimited options.” A good upholsterer will always help you choose fabrics that are durable and easy to clean. Most importantly, one that will complement your home aesthetic.
Maintenance and Care
The next major step after reupholstering your sectional sofa is to maintain it properly. Regularly cleaning your sofa with a vacuum to eliminate dirt and dust is often advised by experts. Promptly cleaning any spills will also save you from annoying stains. Additionally, you might want to invest in a good fabric protector spray to make cleaning easier by repelling stains.
Different upholstery fabrics require different cleaning methods. For example, a microfiber chair can be cleaned with only mild soap and water, while leather needs a specific cleaner and conditioner to avoid damage. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your fabric. If in doubt, consulting a professional or fabric expert is always wise. At Dreamsofa, there are several fabric options to choose from, so you can select the best one for your furniture needs. Following these tips will help you maintain your beautiful and comfortable furniture.
