How to Reupholster a Recliner

Reupholstering a recliner can give it new life and save you the cost of buying a new one. With the right tools and materials, you can transform an old and worn-out recliner into a fresh and stylish piece of furniture that matches your home decor. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of reupholstering your recliner, from stripping it down to the frame to attaching the final piece of fabric.

Step 1: Strip the Recliner Down to the Frame

The first step in reupholstering a recliner is to strip it down to the frame. Remove any cushions, armrests, and backrests from the recliner, and then use a staple remover or pliers to take off the old fabric and foam. Take note of how the old fabric was attached to the frame so that you can use it as a guide when attaching the new fabric.

Step 2: Replace the Foam and Batting

After removing the old foam, replace it with new foam that matches the thickness and firmness of the old one. You can also add a layer of batting for extra comfort and softness. Cut the foam and batting to size, and then use a spray adhesive to attach them to the recliner frame.

Step 3: Sew the New Fabric

Measure and cut the new fabric to the size of the recliner, leaving an extra inch or two on each side. If the old fabric had piping, you can make new piping by cutting fabric strips and sewing them around a cord. Sew the piping onto the edges of the fabric that will cover the cushion, armrest, and backrest.

Step 4: Attach the New Fabric to the Recliner

Starting with the cushion, attach the new fabric by wrapping it around the cushion and stapling it to the frame underneath. Use a staple gun to staple the fabric to the frame, pulling it tight as you go. Continue with the armrests and backrests, using the old fabric as a guide for the placement of the staples.

Step 5: Finish the Reupholstered Recliner

Once the new fabric is attached to the recliner, trim any excess fabric and reattach the cushions, armrests, and backrests. You can also add decorative elements such as buttons or tufting to give your recliner a custom look. And voila! Your reupholstered recliner is ready to use.

Conclusion:

Reupholstering a recliner can be a rewarding DIY project that saves you money and gives you a unique piece of furniture that matches your home decor. By following these steps, you can give your old and worn-out recliner a fresh and stylish look that will make it the centerpiece of your living room.