How much to reupholster a chair? Costs, factors, and tips to consider

Chairs see a lot of wear and tear over the years. But if the frame is still solid, reupholstering can bring the chair back to life while keeping the memories and quality that made it worth holding onto in the first place.

That raises an important question: What is the cost to reupholster a chair?  Understanding the costs involved can help you plan more effectively and determine if it’s the right move.

Keep reading to discover how much to reupholster a chair, key factors to consider before reupholstering, and tips to help you save money.

Key takeaways

• Typical cost: Most chairs cost $200–$1,800 to reupholster, depending on the style, fabric, and complexity of the job.
  
  
• Biggest cost drivers: Labor hours and fabric choice have the largest impact on the final price, especially for detailed or oversized chairs.
  
  
• When it’s worth it: Reupholstery is a smart investment for well-built or sentimental pieces, often offering better longevity and quality than buying new.

What is chair reupholstery?

Chair reupholstery is the process of stripping down a chair to its bare frame and rebuilding it with new materials. It’s a full refresh inside and out. The process begins with removing the existing fabric, foam, padding, and sometimes even the springs, and then carefully replacing each layer to restore both comfort and structure. 

Chair reupholstery is often confused with chair recovering, but they are distinct processes. When you recover a chair, you're simply replacing the old fabric with new material, without touching the inner padding or support.

Many people choose to reupholster their chairs for different reasons: sometimes the chair holds sentimental value, whether it’s a family heirloom, a wedding gift, or a piece that holds special memories.

Others opt for reupholstery because the chair is built better than most modern furniture. Many older pieces feature solid wood frames and high-quality craftsmanship that is difficult to replicate. Reupholstery also allows you to customize the chair to match your style and home decor by choosing the exact fabric, color, and texture you desire.

Average cost to reupholster a chair

The cost to reupholster a chair typically ranges from $200 to $1,800, depending on the chair style, fabric choice, labor hours, and whether any structural repairs are needed. Simple dining seats fall at the low end, while large or detailed chairs — like wingbacks or recliners — sit at the top of the range.

Several cost factors determine the final price:

• Fabric is one of the biggest drivers. Most upholstery fabrics now range from $15 to $120 per yard, depending on material and quality.
  
  
• Labor usually contributes the largest share. Most upholsterers charge $60 to $120 per hour or a flat rate of $100 to $900+, depending on the complexity.
  
  
• Chair condition matters. Solid frames and intact springs reduce the cost. Loose joints, broken springs, or damaged padding add repair fees.
  
  
• Location plays a role — urban upholstery shops and regions with limited specialists typically charge more.
  
  

Special details (tufting, nailhead trim, welt cord/piping, decorative stitching) increase the total because they require more time and precision.

Labor cost vs. material cost

Labor costs make up the largest portion of most reupholstery projects. Professional upholsterers typically charge $60 to $120 per hour, depending on their experience and where you live. The more complex the chair, the longer the job takes — and the higher the labor cost.

A simple job, like reupholstering a bar stool or dining chair seat, may only take an hour or two, keeping labor costs low. Larger or more detailed chairs — such as armchairs, wingbacks, or recliners — can take several hours to complete, especially if repairs or decorative details are involved.

Material costs also play a major role. Most upholstery fabric ranges from $15 to $120 per yard, and the amount needed varies widely by chair type. A dining chair seat typically requires 0.5 to 1 yard, while a larger lounge or accent chair may need 3 to 5 yards. Oversized styles often require 6 to 10 yards to account for curves, padding, and extra panels.

Other materials — such as foam, batting, webbing, zippers, Dacron, and trim — may add to the total cost, depending on what needs to be replaced.

Calculating the cost of reupholstering a chair

Estimating the cost to reupholster a chair comes down to a few key factors: the chair’s size and complexity, the amount of fabric required, the upholsterer’s labor rate, and whether any structural repairs or decorative details are involved. Use the steps and table below to calculate a realistic range for your piece.

How to calculate the cost of your chair

1. Identify your chair type.
   Note the style (dining chair, armchair, wingback, recliner, etc.) since complexity and size are the biggest cost triggers.
   
   
2. Measure or estimate the fabric needed.
   Check the typical yardage for your chair type. Add extra yardage if your fabric has stripes, plaids, or detailed patterns.
   
   
3. Choose your fabric.
   Upholstery fabrics generally cost $15–$120 per yard, depending on material and quality.
   
   
4. Factor in labor.
   Labor may be charged by the hour ($60–$120/hr) or by the chair ($100–$900+, depending on complexity).
   
   
5. Account for repairs or add-ons.
   Loose joints, sagging springs, new foam, welt cord, or decorative details can increase the total.
   
   

Add everything together.
Fabric + labor + repairs + optional details = your estimated total.

Chair reupholstery cost by chair type

The type of chair you’re reupholstering has one of the biggest impacts on the final cost. Simple dining chairs and barstools are the most affordable because they use minimal fabric and have straightforward construction. Larger or more detailed chairs require more fabric, more padding, and significantly more labor.

Size and shape also matter. Chairs with curves, rolled arms, high backs, channeling, or built-in cushions take longer to disassemble and rebuild. Decorative features such as tufting, nailhead trim, welt cord/piping, and buttons add even more time and precision, increasing the total price.

Cost to reupholster common chair types

Use the table below to determine the average price for reupholstering common chair types.

Fabric choices and their impact on price

The fabric you choose has a major impact on the total cost of reupholstering a chair. Synthetic fabrics tend to be the most budget-friendly. They’re durable, easy to clean, and resistant to everyday wear — ideal for high-traffic households. The trade-off is that synthetics may feel less breathable and lack the natural texture and richness some people prefer.

Natural fabrics generally cost more and require extra care, but they offer better breathability, a softer feel, and a more premium look. Materials like linen, wool, leather, and silk give chairs a high-end finish but come with higher price tags and, in some cases, more upkeep.

Most synthetic upholstery fabrics range from $10 to $70 per yard, while natural options typically range from $10 to $120 per yard, depending on the material.

How many yards of fabric do you need?

The amount of fabric required to reupholster a chair depends on the chair’s size, shape, and style. Smaller pieces, like dining chairs, only need a small amount of fabric, while larger or more complex chairs, like recliners, need significantly more.

Simple dining chairs often need just 0.5 to 1 yard, while armchairs and club chairs typically require 3 to 5 yards. Bigger or more detailed chairs, like wingbacks and recliners, can use 6 to 10 yards of fabric, especially if you’re working with bold patterns that need matching.

Other common chair styles, including slipper chairs, Parsons chairs, bergere chairs, and tub chairs, usually fall somewhere in the 2 to 4 yard range.

It’s always a good idea to buy a little more fabric than you think you need. Extra yardage gives you room for cutting errors, pattern matching, and future repairs if a section ever gets damaged.

How long does it take to reupholster a chair?

Reupholstery timelines vary based on the chair’s design, repair needs, and the upholsterer’s workload. Simple chairs may be completed in a single afternoon, while detailed or oversized pieces take much longer — especially if they need internal repairs or pattern matching.

Cost of DIY vs. professional reupholstering  

​​Reupholstering a chair yourself can save money, but it’s a time-intensive project that requires the right tools, skills, and patience. Simple dining seats are manageable for most DIYers, but larger or more detailed chairs require advanced techniques, precise pattern cutting, and strong attention to detail.

Hiring a professional upholsterer costs more upfront, but you’ll get a polished, durable finish — and avoid the frustration of repairs or mistakes that can actually increase costs.

Reupholstery vs. buying new

Deciding whether to reupholster or replace a chair usually comes down to three things: quality, cost, and personal attachment. Many older chairs were built with solid hardwood frames and high-density springs — construction that’s rarely found in today’s mass-produced furniture. Reupholstery lets you preserve that craftsmanship while updating the look, comfort, and fabric to suit your home.

Buying new can be cheaper in some cases, especially for simple dining chairs or budget furniture. New chairs also offer instant gratification: no wait times, no decisions about foam or trim, and no concerns about structural repairs. But lower-cost furniture often sacrifices long-term durability, meaning it may need replacing sooner than a well-upholstered older piece.

The right choice depends on what the chair means to you, how well it’s built, and how long you want it to last.

Choose reupholstery when the chair is well-made, comfortable, or meaningful to you. Choose buying new when the chair has a weak frame, severe structural damage, or was inexpensive to begin with.

Signs your chair needs reupholstery vs. simple recovering

Not all worn chairs need full reupholstery. Sometimes, the internal structure, padding, and springs are still in great condition — and only the fabric is faded or outdated. In those cases, recovering (new fabric only) is faster, cheaper, and perfectly effective.

Full reupholstery becomes necessary when the chair has deeper issues: sagging support, flattened padding, broken springs, squeaks, or frame instability. Reupholstery rebuilds the chair from the inside out, restoring both appearance and comfort.

Evaluating which option you need saves money and ensures your chair lasts as long as possible.

Signs your chair needs full reupholstery

• Sagging seat or back support
  
  
• Worn-out or lumpy foam
  
  
• Loose joints or unstable frame
  
  
• Torn webbing or broken springs
  
  
• Squeaking or shifting when you sit
  
  
• Padding feels thin or uneven
  
  
• Strong odors trapped in internal materials
  

Signs a chair only needs recovering

• Fabric is faded, stained, or outdated
  
  
• The padding still feels firm and comfortable
  
  
• The frame is stable with no wobbling
  
  
• No sagging or sinking when you sit
  
  
• Springs and webbing are intact
  
  
• You only want a cosmetic refresh

A good rule of thumb to follow is if the chair feels uncomfortable, unstable, noisy, or sagging, you need reupholstery. If the chair feels fine but looks outdated, recovering will do the job.

Tips for saving money on chair reupholstery

There are several ways to save money when reupholstering a chair, especially if you're working with a budget but still want quality results.

• Choose affordable yet durable fabrics: Go for fabrics like cotton blends, linen blends, and denim. They offer good durability at a lower price point compared to wool, leather, or silk.
  
  
• Bundle multiple pieces to reduce costs: If you have more than one chair or piece of furniture, you might qualify for a bulk discount if you reupholster them all at once. Some upholsterers also offer first-time customer deals. Be sure to ask about any discounts or special offers they have and take advantage of them.
  
  
• Provide your fabric or transport the chair yourself: Buying your fabric from a discount source or dropping off and picking up the chair yourself can help you avoid markups and delivery fees.
  
  

• Consider partial upholstery: If only part of the chair is worn out, like the seat or backrest, reupholstering just that section can save both time and money.
  
  

• Select simpler designs: If you’re on a budget, avoid decorative details like tufting, piping, or nailhead trim, as these details take more time to complete and increase labor costs.
  
  

• Ask for detailed quotes upfront: A clear, itemized quote helps you understand what you're paying for and avoids unexpected costs later on. It also makes it easier to compare different upholsterers for the best price and value for money.

Is chair reupholstery the right choice for you?

Reupholstering chairs can be a worthwhile investment if the piece has strong bones, sentimental value, or a design you love. Many older chairs are made with solid wood frames and craftsmanship that’s hard to find in most furniture today. 

To make the most of your investment, select a durable fabric that matches how often the chair will be used. Pair it with high-quality foam or padding to ensure the seat remains comfortable over time, and most importantly, work with an experienced upholsterer.

That said, it’s essential to take a step back and assess the value and condition of your chair. If the chair is poorly built, heavily damaged, or uncomfortable, even with new padding, it is better to replace it rather than repair it.

How much to reupholster a chair FAQs

Is it worth it to reupholster a chair?
Yes, if the chair has a solid frame, good craftsmanship, or sentimental value. Reupholstery can outlast many new chairs and lets you fully customize fabric, comfort, and style.

Is it cheaper to reupholster or buy new?
It depends on the chair. Reupholstery costs $200–$1,800+, while new chairs range from $100–$1,500+. Cheap chairs are often cheaper to replace, but quality or heirloom pieces are worth reupholstering.

What do upholsterers charge per hour?
Most upholsterers charge $60–$120 per hour, depending on experience, shop location, and the complexity of the project.

Is it better to reupholster a chair or buy new?
Reupholster if the chair is well-built or meaningful, or if you want custom fabric and padding. Buy new if the frame is weak, damaged, or if the chair wasn’t high quality to begin with.

How much should I expect to pay to reupholster a chair?
Most chairs cost $200–$1,800 to reupholster. Simple dining seats sit at the low end, while large or detailed chairs like wingbacks or recliners reach the higher end.

What’s the difference between recovering and reupholstering?
Recovering replaces only the outer fabric. Reupholstery rebuilds the chair inside and out, replacing fabric, foam, padding, springs, and repairs as needed.

Can I reupholster a chair myself?
Yes, for simple dining seats or stools. More complex chairs with arms, curves, tufting, or internal repairs are best left to a professional.

How long does reupholstering take?
Small chairs take 1–4 hours. Large or detailed chairs take 8–15+ hours. Most upholsterers finish projects within 1–3 weeks depending on workload and fabric availability.

How much is labor for reupholstering?
Labor typically ranges from $100–$900+ per chair, or $60–$120 per hour, depending on size, detail, and repair needs.

Do you have to remove old fabric when reupholstering?
Yes. Proper reupholstery requires removing old fabric so the upholsterer can repair padding, springs, and webbing and achieve a smooth, durable finish.

What are common reupholstering problems?
Frequent issues include hidden frame damage, broken springs, uneven padding, fabric shortages, and pattern-matching challenges — especially on curved or detailed chairs.