How To Upholster A Winged Armchair

How To Upholster A Winged Armchair

Upholstering a winged armchair can be an intimidating task, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, with a little patience and the right tools, it’s a project that can be completed by anyone. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and provide a step-by-step guide for upholstering a winged armchair.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Remove Old Fabric

The first step in upholstering a winged armchair is to remove the old fabric. Use a pair of pliers to remove any staples or tacks that are holding the fabric in place. Be careful not to damage the existing foam or padding underneath the fabric.

Step 2: Evaluate the Foam and Padding

Once the old fabric is removed, evaluate the condition of the foam and padding. If they are damaged or worn, you may need to replace them. You can purchase new foam and padding at a fabric or craft store.

Step 3: Cut New Fabric

Measure the dimensions of the armchair and cut a piece of new fabric to fit. Be sure to leave extra fabric on the sides and back so that you can pull it tightly over the foam and padding.

Step 4: Attach Fabric

Starting at the bottom of the chair, use a staple gun to attach the new fabric to the frame. Pull the fabric tightly over the foam and padding, and staple it in place every few inches. Be sure to work slowly and carefully to avoid wrinkles or puckers in the fabric.

Step 5: Finish the Edges

Once the fabric is attached, use a hot glue gun to finish the edges. Fold the fabric over the edges of the chair and glue it in place. Be sure to trim any excess fabric as necessary.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Choose a durable and high-quality fabric that will withstand wear and tear.
2. Take your time when removing the old fabric to avoid damaging the foam or padding.
3. Consider replacing the foam and padding if they are damaged or worn.
4. Invest in a high-quality staple gun to make the process easier and smoother.
5. Work slowly and carefully to avoid wrinkles or puckers in the fabric.
6. Use a hot glue gun to finish the edges neatly and securely.
7. Take breaks as needed to avoid fatigue and frustration.
8. Watch online tutorials or read books on upholstery to learn new techniques and tricks.
9. Consider adding decorative details, such as piping or tufting, to add visual interest.
10. Take pride in your finished product and enjoy your newly upholstered armchair!

Pros and Cons

Upholstering a winged armchair has both pros and cons. On the one hand, it allows you to customize the look of your furniture and give new life to an old piece. On the other hand, it can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and requires some skill and knowledge.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

As someone who has upholstered several winged armchairs, I highly recommend this project to anyone who is up for a challenge. While it can be tricky and time-consuming, the end result is well worth the effort. Not only will you have a beautiful new piece of furniture, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you did it yourself.

FAQs

Q: Do I need any special tools to upholster a winged armchair?

A: While you don’t necessarily need special tools, it’s helpful to have a staple gun, pliers, and a hot glue gun on hand. You may also need scissors, a measuring tape, and a utility knife.

Q: Can I upholster a winged armchair if I’ve never done it before?

A: Yes, you can! While it may be intimidating at first, upholstery is a skill that can be learned with practice and patience. Start with a small, simple project and work your way up to more complex pieces.

Q: How long does it take to upholster a winged armchair?

A: The amount of time it takes to upholster a winged armchair will vary depending on your skill level, the complexity of the piece, and the tools you have on hand. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to complete.