Couch Cushions » Reupholster Couch Cushions
To Reupholster or To Not Reupholster - That is the Question
Reupholstering should be considered for your chairs and sofa's based on several questions that determine the answer. Many pieces of furniture have different criteria and the answer is determined by the questions you ask before starting the project.
IS IT AN HEIRLOOM PIECE:
Heirloom pieces that have been handed down from family members possibly from generation to generation, can be used over and over again and can get a new look with fabric, foam and refinishing. Make sure the springs and frames are in good condition or have them replaced and check out the batting or horsehaire stuffing. If it is still usable put it back into the piece to preserve the antique value. Frames should be refinished when needed by an antique refinisher and restored to their original patina finish.
CAN YOU PART WITH IT?:
A favorite chair or sofa can be a definite determining factor for reupholstering a piece of furniture. Chairs that have great comfort and fit or a sectional that fits into your room perfectly would be an excellent candidate for reupholstery. After shopping around and determining that you cannot purchase anything quite like the easy chair that sits so perfectly, or sofa that you love to curl up in, and anything else would not do you have a sure yes to reupholstering your piece(s). Make sure the foam is replaced with a density similar to the foam you now have in your piece or it will not feel the same. Be sure you choose a new fabric that is similar in weight to the one you now have and complimentary to the room and to the other fabrics and colors surrounding the piece.
FURNITURE HAS THE WRONG COLOR FABRIC:
The determining factor in the case of the fairly new sofa or chair that has just the wrong color fabric would be a good choice for a new look except for a piece that is fairly inexpensive and takes a lot of yardage. You must determine if the piece is sound, has good inners, springs, and frame. It may be more cost effective to purchase a new piece if the furniture is not in one of the above categories and can be replaced easily and more economically.
RULE OF THUMB FOR REUPHOLSTERING:
The rule of thumb for reupholstering a traditional sofa 82" Long and 36" deep with 5 to 6 cushions and 2 pillows is approx. $800 - $900 Labor, and will take around 12 to 16 yds of fabric depending upon the size of the fabric repeat chosen. The rule of thumb for reupholstering a standard upholstered chair 28" to 30" wide by 28" to 36" deep 2 cushions and (1) pillow with armcovers is $275 to $350 Labor and takes 7 to 10 yds of fabric depending upon the fabric repeat. You can estimate it to be fairly accurate with most reupholsters. Check out the quality of the reupholsters' work through their referrals and get a (pick up and delivery timeframe and date). Ask if they are replacing all the foam, springs and batting and removing all the old fabric from the piece. If there is an extra charge for any of these, make sure you get the additional costs up front.
Patricia Davidson, Design Consultant has been chosen among the top designers of the United States by the International Chamber of Commerce of Italy to tour their mills, fabric houses and design studios in Caserta Italy.
As Design Consultant and owner of Interior Services of Tampa Patricia oversees all the projects to completion and to the clients' complete satisfaction Patricia is also a Home Decorating Coach.
Source: www.isnare.com