How To Reupholster A Wing Back Chair (Step-By-Step Guide)

Whether you’re a seasoned DIY-er or a newbie just starting out, reupholstering a wing back chair is a great way to give new life to an old piece of furniture and add a personal touch to your home decor.

Not only is reupholstering a fun and rewarding project, but it’s also a great way to save some money compared to buying a brand new piece of furniture. And the best part? You get to choose the fabric and design that perfectly matches your personal style and aesthetic.

Now, I know that reupholstering a chair may seem like a daunting task, but with a little patience and some basic tools, it’s totally doable for even the most novice DIY-ers out there. So let’s get started and turn that tired old chair into a stunning showpiece that you’ll be proud to display in your home!

Step-By-Step Guide To Reupholster a Wing Back Chair

Materials you’ll need:

• Upholstery fabric
• Upholstery foam (optional)
• Upholstery batting
• Scissors
• Staple gun
• Staples
• Pliers
• Screwdriver (if necessary)
• Sewing machine and thread (optional)

Here are the basic steps you can follow to reupholster a wing back chair:

Step 1: Remove the old fabric

First things first, let’s get rid of that tired old fabric. I like to use a trusty staple remover or pliers for this step, being careful not to damage any foam or batting underneath. And speaking of foam and batting, if you notice any damage or wear and tear, it’s time to replace it too.

Now, don’t toss that old fabric just yet! Take a close look at how it was attached to the chair. This will serve as a handy guide when it’s time to reupholster.

Step 2: Cut and attach the new fabric 

Measure and cut your new fabric according to the old fabric’s pattern. You don’t want to be caught off guard when it comes to attaching the new fabric to your chair.

Once you have your fabric ready to go, grab your trusty staple gun and start at the center of the chair. Work your way out to the edges, pulling the fabric taut as you go. But be careful not to pull it too tight! You don’t want to distort the shape of the chair.

Finally, when you get to those tricky curves and corners, fold and tuck the fabric neatly. This will give your chair that professional, polished look that’ll make all your friends think you hired a pro!

Step 3: Add upholstery batting and foam (optional) 

If the chair’s foam or batting is damaged, replace it with new material. Cut the foam and batting to fit the chair’s shape and attach it using a staple gun.

Step 4: Finish the edges and corners

Now it’s time to trim any excess fabric and get ready to staple it in place. But before you do, let me give you a little trick that I’ve learned over the years.

When you’re folding the fabric around the corners and edges of your chair, take a little extra time to make sure it’s nice and neat. This will not only give your chair a more polished look, but it will also make it more comfortable to sit on.

And when it comes to stapling, don’t be afraid to use a little muscle. You want those staples to be nice and secure, so your fabric stays in place for years to come.

Step 5: Optional – Add piping or trim

Adding some piping or trim along the edges is a simple and effective way to make your chair stand out. 

Measure out the piping or trim and cut it to size. Then, sew it onto the fabric of the chair before you start stapling it. This will ensure that the piping or trim stays securely in place and won’t come loose over time.

I absolutely love adding piping or trim to my furniture projects. It’s a quick and easy way to make a big impact and add a personalized touch to any piece. So go ahead and give it a try – your chair will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any special tools or materials to reupholster a wing back chair?

Yes, you’ll need upholstery fabric, upholstery foam (optional), upholstery batting, scissors, a staple gun, staples, pliers, and a screwdriver (if necessary). You may also need a sewing machine and thread if you plan on adding piping or trim.

How do I remove the old fabric from the chair?

Use a staple remover or pliers to carefully remove the old fabric from the chair. If the foam or batting is damaged, remove and replace it as well.

Can I reuse the old batting and foam if they’re in good condition?

It’s generally recommended to replace the old batting and foam, even if they’re in good condition. This will ensure that the chair has a new, fresh foundation to support the new upholstery.

Do I need to be an expert in sewing to reupholster a wing back chair?

No, you don’t need to be an expert in sewing, but it may be helpful if you plan on adding piping or trim. However, reupholstering a wing back chair can be a challenging project, so it’s important to have patience and take your time.

Can I reupholster a wing back chair without a staple gun?

It’s possible to reupholster a wing back chair without a staple gun, but it will make the process more difficult and time-consuming. A staple gun is the recommended tool for attaching the new fabric to the chair’s frame.

How long does it take to reupholster a wing back chair?

The time it takes to reupholster a wing back chair will depend on your skill level and the complexity of the project. It can take several hours to complete the project, so it’s important to set aside enough time to finish the job properly.

Summary

Reupholstering a wingback chair is a fun and rewarding DIY project that can completely transform the look of your space. With some patience, attention to detail, and the right tools, anyone can do it! As a DIY blogger, I always encourage my readers to take on new challenges and try new things. And I can tell you from personal experience that reupholstering a chair is a project that is definitely worth the effort. So, grab some fabric, get your staple gun ready, and give your wingback chair a new lease on life. Trust me, you won’t regret it!