In these tough economic times, we all have to cut back on new purchases.  But, doesn’t mean we have to cut back on improvements or style.  You may want to up and remodel the kitchen or bathroom, but why not start small and give your living room furniture a lift with an all-new look?  And, the best part?  You can do it yourself.  Reupholstering is an economical and fun way to revitalize the look of your home, and extend the life of your furniture without sinking a bunch of dough.

So! It’s time to reupholster that tired old sofa.  First step, measure your sofa, including the cushions, and jot the dimensions down on a piece of paper.  Next, it’s time to choose your fabric.  For this project, I would recommend actually going to a fabric store as opposed to ordering online, unless you really know your fabrics.  Going to the store will allow you to more accurately select a fabric that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but is durable.  Also, the employees there will be able to help you figure out how much you need to purchase based on the dimensions you measured.

Now that you’ve got your fabric, get ready for I think the most fun part – removing the old fabric from your sofa.  Get a seam ripper or razor, and cut along a seam on the back of the couch, careful not to cut too deeply into the foam cushioning.  Working from back to front, cut and peel off the old fabric.  Take notes of how the fabric was folded and attached, as it will make it easier to recreate.   Next, examine the cushioning, making sure that none needs to be replaced.  Next, lay your fabric on the floor and place a cushion on top of it.  Using a colored grease pencil, trace the cushion allowing one inch of slack around the edge.  Remember, you’ll need two identical pieces for each cushion – one for the top and one for the bottom.

Next, cut the pieces for the frame of the couch based on the dimensions you previously measured. You’ll want to attach the pieces to the frame of the couch first using a staple, or hot glue gun (I recommend a staple gun), stretching it tightly so that there are no wrinkles.  Next, it’s time to sew the cushion covers.  A handheld sewing machine is easiest as you can pin the fabric around the cushions and sew them together.  But, a sewing machine will work, too (of course).  Add a zipper to the cushion covers, if you like, or you can sew them together completely.

And, there you go!  Now, that wasn’t so bad was it?  And you have a brand new look at a fraction of the price.