How To Recover Sofa Seat Cushions

How to Recover Sofa Seat Cushions

Updating or repairing your sofa's seat cushions with fresh fabric is a cost-effective and rewarding project. Whether your cushions have lost their plushness or the upholstery has become faded or torn, recovering them can bring new life to your sofa. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you achieve professional-looking results:

Materials You'll Need

* Fabric (upholstery or decorator weight) * Measuring tape * Scissors * Staple gun * Staple remover * Screwdriver (for removing cushion covers) * Optional: foam padding (if cushions have lost support)

Step 1: Prepare the Cushions

* Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the cushion covers. * Carefully remove the covers and discard the old fabric. * Inspect the foam padding. If it has become flattened or lumpy, consider replacing it with new foam of the same thickness and density.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Fabric

* Measure the length and width of each cushion. * Add 6-8 inches to each measurement to allow for the edges and overlap. * Cut the fabric pieces to the desired size, making sure the grain of the fabric runs parallel to the length of the cushion.

Step 3: Wrap and Staple the Fabric

* Place the cushion inside the fabric piece, centering it and smoothing out any wrinkles. * Wrap the fabric around the cushion, overlapping the edges by 3-4 inches. * Secure the fabric temporarily with pins.

Step 4: Staple the Fabric

* Working along one edge at a time, remove the pins and use a staple gun to staple the fabric to the underside of the cushion. * Space the staples 1-1.5 inches apart, ensuring the fabric is taut but not overstretched. * Repeat this process for all four edges.

Step 5: Trim the Excess Fabric

* Once the fabric is securely stapled, trim off any excess along the edges, leaving a clean and finished look.

Step 6: Reassemble the Cushions

* Place the recovered cushions back inside their covers. * Reattach the cushion covers by screwing them back in place.

Tips for a Professional Finish

* Use high-quality upholstery or decorator-weight fabric for durability. * Choose a fabric color and pattern that complements your sofa's style and decor. * If the fabric has a directional pattern, pay attention to the grain when cutting and wrapping to ensure the pattern flows consistently. * Iron the fabric before upholstering to remove wrinkles and give a more polished look. * For extra comfort, consider adding a layer of batting or fiberfill between the fabric and the foam padding. * If you encounter any difficulties, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance from an upholsterer. By following these steps carefully, you can achieve beautiful and durable recovered sofa seat cushions that will enhance the comfort and aesthetic appeal of your living room.