How Much Does It Cost to Reupholster a Chair?

The cost to reupholster a chair ranges from $200 to $2,000, or around $800 on average. This price includes labor at $40 to $100 per hour and about $50 to $70 per yard in fabric. 

Whether it’s a family heirloom, priceless antique, or a comfy armchair, reupholstering is an alternative to buying all-new items. However, reupholstery can be comparable to purchasing new furniture, so it may not carry desirable cost savings for people on a budget. Consider these average prices when deciding whether to reupholster a chair.

Average Cost to Reupholster a Chair by Type

The cost to reupholster a chair varies widely based on the type. Larger chairs with more padding will have higher material costs. Certain designs are also more complex and difficult to work on, increasing labor prices.

Armchair Cost

Armchair reupholstery costs from $800 to $1,500 on average. Armchairs come in various shapes and styles—the larger and more padded the chair, the greater the cost. Roll arms and pillow tops also add to the amount of fabric needed, further increasing the price.

Wingback Chair

Wingback chair reupholstery costs $1,000 to $2,000. These types of chairs are typically large and overstuffed so the extra materials will drive up your costs. You’ll also pay more for loose cushions, a skirt, cording, and other extra detailings.

Dining Chair 

The cost to reupholster a dining chair usually ranges from $50 to $250. Prices vary depending on the type and amount of fabric needed. You may be able to reupholster multiple chairs per yard of fabric, which could lower your total material costs.

Bar Stools

Bar stools cost $50 to $500 to reupholster. Backless barstools will be on the low end of the price range, while cushioned arms and backs can cost quite a bit more. Like dining chairs and individual cushions, the price depends mostly on the amount of fabric needed.

Parsons Chair

Upholstering a Parsons chair can cost anywhere from $150 to $500. This is a classic armless dining chair with an upholstered back and seat cushion. The odd shape and angles make it a more difficult piece to work on, so labor charges may be higher compared to other chair types.

Bergère Chair

Reupholstering a bergère chair typically costs between $200 and $450. Many chairs in this style are antiques, so the extra time and care to preserve them will increase labor charges. Newer models will cost less to upholster than older ones. 

Tub Chair

Reupholstering a tub or barrel chair typically costs $400 to $800. These chairs have a semi-circle back and no separate arms—the rounded back wraps around both sides, creating a makeshift armrest. Upholstery prices vary based on the size of the chair and the level of padding.

Slipper Chair

Reupholstering a slipper chair generally ranges from $250 to $400. These chairs are armless but they have a lot of extra cushioning, so they need extra material. The odd shape and rounded corners also require more skill and care to work on, so labor charges for this project may be higher.

Leather Chair

The price to reupholster a chair in leather runs from $800 to $2,000. Leather costs around $40 to $60 per yard, but it may be available in smaller pieces. Leather is an expensive reupholstery choice, but it’s also very durable when cared for properly. However, homes with pets should consider other options, as claws can easily tear through the material.

Office Chair

Reupholstering an office chair costs around $200 to $700. Prices vary depending on the fabric choice and amount needed. Armless varieties will cost on the low end of the price range, while larger and heavily padded models will cost more. 

Recliner

Reupholstering a recliner costs $400 to $1,500, depending on the style, fabric, and size. These types of chairs are usually overstuffed and need more material, which will increase costs. Chairs with pillow tops or skirting run higher.

La-Z-Boy Recliner

The cost to reupholster a La-Z-Boy recliner generally ranges from $600 to $1,500. These types of recliners typically feature a generous amount of cushioning, so material costs will be higher. They also have a more complex structure with various mechanisms to work around so labor costs will be higher. Semi-attached cushions and larger sizes tend to run more.

Outdoor Chair Cushions

The cost to reupholster outdoor chair cushions typically ranges from $50 to $300. Costs are often comparable to indoor chair cushions. Fabric type, cushion depth, and the number you need affect the price.

Average Cost to Reupholster a Chair by Type of Material

The type of material you choose majorly impacts the final price. Below are the most common materials for reupholstering chairs and their typical cost.

Yards of Fabric to Reupholster a Chair

Upholstery materials cost $50 to $70 per yard on average. Chairs require 1 to 10 yards, depending on the style. Here’s how much material you’ll need for these styles:

• Wingback chair: 6 to 10 yards

• Recliner: 6 to 10 yards

• Dining room chair: 1/2 yard

• Tub chair: 2 to 4 yards

Factors That Impact the Cost to Recover a Chair

Several factors affect the cost to recover a chair. The material choice greatly impacts the total price, specifically patterns, which will increase labor costs by 10% to 20%. Keep in mind that chair frame repairs can cost $250 or more, and extra service features like tufting and cording can raise the cost by 20% to 30%.

Add-Ons and Enhancements

When you’re reupholstering your chairs, there are several add-on services you might consider for additional fees. These enhancements include:

• Restuffing padding

• Recaning (replacing broken weaving)

• Vintage restoration (replacing missing buttons, embellishments, etc.)

• Upholstery cleaning costs

• Adding decorative trim

• Structural repairs

Reupholstering a Chair vs. Buying New

When considering whether to reupholster a chair or buy a new one, there are several factors to consider. Here are the key points to help you decide your next move.

When to Reupholster a Chair

For family heirlooms or antiques, investing in reupholstery is a great way to keep your furniture item looking pristine for years to come. If you’re fond of the chair and not interested in replacing it, you might consider reupholstering, as pricing will be similar either way. If the chair has a sturdy frame and doesn’t need repair, then it’s a good candidate for reupholstery.

When to Buy New

Reupholstering furniture isn’t usually a money-saving alternative, so people on a tight budget should consider buying new. Chairs that need nine or more yards of fabric will cost more to upholster than buying a new chair. There’s also timing to consider—if you need the chair ASAP (in less than a week), you’re better off purchasing new.

FAQs

Can I DIY chair upholstery?

DIY chair upholstery is possible, but it requires a lot of skill and patience. Armless dining chairs with no back upholstery and backless barstools are more beginner-friendly DIYs, while wingback chairs and recliners can be very challenging to undertake. Plus, if you purchase your materials and cannot achieve the desired look, you’ll have to eat those costs and find an alternative. To save yourself the hassle, check out furniture upholstery services near you.

How much does it cost to reupholster six dining chair seats?

Reupholstering six dining chair seats usually costs between $300 to $1,500. The price depends on the amount of fabric needed. Since a single yard of fabric may be able to cover multiple pieces, material costs will decrease accordingly.

How much does it cost to reupholster a chair and ottoman?

The cost to reupholster furniture like an ottoman typically costs between $300 to $700. With a chair, the total range comes to $350 to $2,700.

How much is it to upholster a couch?

Reupholstering a couch costs $600 to $4,000. You’ll pay closer to $600 for a small loveseat and $2,000 to $4,000 for a sectional.

How much does chair repair or refinishing cost?

Chair refinishing costs around $350 to $950. Furniture repair prices typically fall between $125 and $275, depending on the nature of the repair. 

Where can I get a chair reupholstered?

Reupholstering is an advanced-level project. You’ll need the expertise of a professional upholsterer to put new fabric, padding, and detailing on your chair. Independent upholstery shops and services are widely available. Many major furniture retailers offer reupholstery services as well. 

How long does it take to reupholster a chair?

Reupholstering a chair can take anywhere from 1 to 10 hours. However, some pros may have a high-demand production schedule that could take two to three weeks or more. If you’re in a time crunch, consider purchasing a new furniture item instead.