My Experience With Recovering Dining Chairs
When I first moved into my new home, I was excited to finally have a dining room to entertain guests in. However, the dining chairs that came with my table were outdated and worn. I knew I needed to either replace them or give them a makeover. After some research, I decided to try recovering them myself.
Cost Of Recovering Dining Chairs
Recovering dining chairs can be a cost-effective way to give your dining room a fresh look without having to buy all new furniture. The cost will depend on a few factors:
Material
The type of fabric you choose will impact the cost. High-end fabrics like silk or velvet will cost more than a basic cotton or polyester fabric.
Number of Chairs
The more chairs you have to recover, the more it will cost. Keep in mind that some upholsterers may offer a discount for larger jobs.
DIY vs Professional
Recovering chairs yourself will save you money, but if you aren’t confident in your skills, it may end up costing more in the long run if you make mistakes. Hiring a professional upholsterer will cost more upfront, but they will have the expertise and tools to get the job done right.
Step by Step Guide for Recovering Dining Chairs
- Remove the seat cushion from the chair frame.
- Remove the old fabric and any staples or tacks holding it in place.
- Cut a new piece of fabric to size, leaving enough extra to wrap around the cushion and staple to the underside.
- Place the new fabric over the cushion and smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles.
- Starting at the center of one side, staple the fabric to the underside of the cushion.
- Work your way around the cushion, pulling the fabric taut and stapling as you go.
- Trim any excess fabric and reattach the cushion to the chair frame.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Recovering Dining Chairs
- Choose a durable, stain-resistant fabric for easy maintenance.
- Consider adding a layer of batting or foam to the cushion for extra comfort.
- Mix and match fabrics for a unique look.
- Use a staple gun with a long nose for hard-to-reach areas.
- Add piping or trim for a decorative touch.
- Paint the chair frame to match your new fabric.
- Experiment with different patterns and textures.
- Use a spray adhesive to keep the fabric in place while stapling.
- Watch online tutorials for guidance and inspiration.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help or hire a professional if needed.
Pros and Cons of Recovering Dining Chairs
Pros
- Cost-effective way to update your dining room
- Customizable to your personal style
- Eco-friendly alternative to buying new furniture
- Can increase the lifespan of your chairs
Cons
- Time-consuming process
- Requires some DIY skills
- May not turn out as expected
- Could end up costing more if mistakes are made
My Personal Review and Suggestion on Recovering Dining Chairs
Overall, I was happy with my decision to recover my dining chairs. It was a bit time-consuming, but the end result was worth it. I chose a durable, easy-to-clean fabric that has held up well over the years. I also added piping for a decorative touch. My suggestion would be to do your research and watch tutorials before attempting to recover your chairs, or consider hiring a professional if you don’t feel confident in your skills.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I recover chairs that have fabric glued to them?
A: It is possible, but it may be more difficult to remove the old fabric and could require more DIY skills.
Q: How long does it take to recover a dining chair?
A: It depends on how many chairs you are recovering and your level of expertise. It could take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.
Q: Can I use any type of fabric to recover my chairs?
A: It is best to choose a fabric that is durable and stain-resistant, and can withstand frequent use. High-end fabrics like silk or velvet may not be the best choice for dining chairs.