Inexpensive Furniture Re-upholstery Options

You bought a small chair for only $50, and then realized that you want to make it blend with your existing couch so you thought of having it re-upholstered. You inquired in a number of upholstery shops and got quotes ranging from $300 - $500! Would you go for that? Of course not! That is just outrageous!

It’s a good thing there are some alternatives - much cheaper options.

1. Take upholstery classes. Most communities offer this type of class so check them out and enroll in one of the classes. Many of these classes include materials to use. Not only will you get to re-upholster your chair yourself, you will also be able to gain new skills that can be useful in the future.

2. Read Do-It-Yourself Upholstery books. These books give you step by step instructions on how to re-upholster a worn-out piece of furniture. The book will also give you information on where to get the tools and materials needed for upholstering.

3. Look for a newcomer in the industry; you might find someone who is just starting in this industry. They probably will not charge as much as established upholstery shops. Offer to buy the material and just pay the labor fee. Being new does not mean that the work would be of poor quality; it might be exceptionally good because a newcomer is trying to establish a clientele. You can even be his source for new customers.

4. Use slipcovers. Instead of having your furniture re-upholstered, a slipcover may work for you. There are slipcovers being sold in retail stores, on websites, and even in online auctions. Alternatively, you could purchase a durable canvas drop-cloth. It goes with any color and easy to use. Just buy a size that is a little larger than the actual size of your furniture to allow for tucking and pinning on the sides and cushion area.

Slipcovers or drop-cloths are also easy to clean. Just toss them in the washer, then into the dryer.

There are other possibilities available for re-upholstering your furniture at a low cost. The best option, of course, is to do it yourself and save the labor fees. There is no harm in trying to do it yourself, and chances are that you’ll even learn and benefit from the experience. However, if you still get intimidated by this type of work, then try the other options mentioned.