Reupholstering cushions is doable: remove old fabric, fix foam, cut new cover, staple neatly.
I’ve spent years redoing furniture and teaching friends how to reupholster cushions. This guide walks you step by step through tools, fabric choices, common mistakes, and finishing touches. Read on to learn simple, trusted techniques that save money and give your cushions new life.
Tools and Materials You Need
Starting with the right tools makes how to reupholster cushions much easier. Gather tools before you begin to avoid stops and starts. My go-to kit has lasted years and saved me time on every project.
- Staple gun (medium crown) and staples sized for fabric.
- Upholstery or heavy-duty scissors for clean cuts.
- Flathead screwdriver and pliers to remove staples and tacks.
- Tape measure and fabric chalk for accurate layout.
- Needle and heavy thread or a sewing machine for seams.
- Foam, batting, and replacement zippers or trims as needed.
- Safety gear: gloves and eye protection.
Practical note: buy extra staples and a small sample of fabric to test for stretch and pattern match. This prevents mistakes when you cut the main pieces.
Preparing the Cushion: Assessment and Cleanup
A proper assessment saves time when you learn how to reupholster cushions. Inspect seams, foam, frame, and any straps or zippers. Decide whether to repair foam or only replace fabric.
- Check foam for sag or permanent dents. Replace if it fails to spring back.
- Look for structural issues like broken frames or loose buttons.
- Remove loose threads, and clean the cushion cover surface if you plan to reuse it as a template.
- Photograph each side of the cushion before you disassemble. Photos help when you reassemble.
From my experience, one clear photo per side prevents guesswork later. Small repairs now avoid larger fixes later.
Step-by-Step: How to Reupholster Cushions
Follow these steps to learn how to reupholster cushions with confidence. Work slowly. Measure twice. Cut once.
Step 1 — Remove the Old Fabric
- Use a screwdriver and pliers to remove staples and tacks.
- Peel fabric gently to keep it as a pattern.
- Keep all pieces labeled and stacked in order.
I always keep old fabric pieces pinned to the new fabric for pattern reference. It saves time.
Step 2 — Inspect and Replace Foam or Batting
- Test the foam by pressing at the center and edges.
- Replace foam that is crumbly or compressed beyond recovery.
- Add a layer of batting for a smooth look and soft edges.
Quality foam makes the biggest visible difference after how to reupholster cushions.
Step 3 — Cut New Fabric
- Lay the old fabric pieces on the new fabric as templates.
- Add 1/2 inch to 1 inch seam allowance depending on the seam type.
- Mark pattern direction for prints and pile.
Pro tip: match patterns at seams and keep nap direction consistent for a professional look.
Step 4 — Sew or Assemble Components
- Sew panels together with straight, even stitches.
- Add zippers, Velcro, or buttons where needed.
- Test fit before final stapling to ensure alignment.
A temporary baste or long stitch helps test fit before committing with staples.
Step 5 — Attach Fabric to Cushion
- Center fabric and start stapling at the middle of one side.
- Pull taut and staple the opposite side, then work toward corners.
- Fold corners neatly; avoid excess bulk at seams.
Take your time at corners. I slow down here and that yields neat, tailored corners every time.
Choosing Fabric and Foam
Choosing materials affects durability and comfort when you learn how to reupholster cushions. Select fabric by use, style, and wear.
- For heavy use, choose woven upholstery fabrics or performance blends.
- For decorative cushions, use cotton, linen blends, or velvet for texture.
- Choose foam density by seat use: 1.8–2.5 lb density for soft to medium, 2.5–3.0 lb for firm.
- Add a thin layer of polyester batting for a smooth finish.
Note the rub count and cleaning code of fabric. Higher rub counts last longer in busy rooms.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Knowing common mistakes will improve your results when you reupholster cushions. I made many of these early on and learned faster ways.
- Cutting fabric too small—always add seam allowance and test with a mock-up.
- Using weak staples—use proper staples for upholstery to avoid pull-out.
- Ignoring pattern direction—this creates a mismatched look.
- Skipping photos—then you may forget where pieces belong.
- Rushing corners—take time to fold and trim for clean edges.
A little patience here pays off with a cleaner final result and fewer redo’s.
Time, Cost, and When to Hire a Pro
Estimate time and cost before starting how to reupholster cushions. Simple cushions take a few hours. Complex ones take a day or two.
- Time: 2–6 hours per cushion for average skill level.
- Cost: fabric $10–$75 per yard, foam $10–$50 per cushion, tools (one-time) $30–$150.
- Hire a pro if cushions have complex springs, tufting, or antique value.
I reupholstered my sofa cushions over weekends. For tufted or antiques, a pro saved money in the long run and protected the piece.
Maintenance and Care After Reupholstering
Good care keeps your work looking new longer after you reupholster cushions. Clean and protect soon after finishing.
- Vacuum fabric regularly and spot clean per fabric code.
- Rotate cushions to balance wear and sun fading.
- Use fabric protectors if compatible with the material.
- Repair loose threads or staples promptly to prevent bigger damage.
A little maintenance extends the cushion life and highlights your craft.
Frequently Asked Questions of How to reupholster cushions
What tools do I need to reupholster cushions?
You need a staple gun, upholstery scissors, pliers, screwdriver, tape measure, and a sewing needle or machine. Safety gear like gloves and eye protection is also recommended.
How long does it take to reupholster one cushion?
Expect about 2–6 hours for a typical cushion depending on complexity and your skill. Beginners may need more time for practice.
Can I use any fabric to reupholster cushions?
You can use many fabrics, but choose upholstery-grade fabric for high use. Lightweight fabrics may wear quickly on chairs or sofas.
Should I replace the foam when reupholstering cushions?
Replace foam if it’s saggy, torn, or crumbly. New foam gives the biggest upgrade in comfort and shape.
Is it cheaper to reupholster cushions or buy new ones?
Reupholstering often costs less if the cushion structure is sound and fabric is affordable. For antique or custom pieces, reupholstering adds value.
Conclusion
You now have a clear, practical path for how to reupholster cushions. Start by assessing the cushion, gather the right tools, and follow step-by-step methods for a neat finish. Try one cushion first to build confidence, then tackle more as your skills grow. Share your results, ask questions, or subscribe to learn more tips and projects.
Daniel Hart is a consumer product analyst who specializes in mattress technology, smart bedding, and home comfort innovation. Before joining Royal Comport, Daniel worked with several e-commerce research teams, testing and comparing sleep products for quality, value, and long-term performance. He brings data-driven insight and real-world testing to every review he writes.
