How to Reupholster Theatre Seats

Research the history of the theatre. For an authentic look, you will want to find new fabric that is similar in color and texture to the fabric originally used for the seats. Look for old photographs of the theatre's interior at your local historical society, or search online for images of theatre interiors from the same time period you are trying to emulate.

Break down the theatre seat by removing both the back cushion and seat cushion. Depending on the style of the seat, they may slide out of place easily, or you may have to unscrew them with a screwdriver. Make sure to place all screws, nuts and bolts in a box in a central location so you can easily retrieve them.

Remove the fabric from the cushion backing using needlenose pliers to remove any staples holding it in place.

Lay out several sheets of butcher paper on the floor. Place the fabric you removed from the seat and back of the theatre seat on the butcher paper and trace the outline.

Cut out the shapes you traced and store them in a safe place. These will be your templates for tracing the cut-outs for the replacement fabric.

Assess the condition of the seat cushion once the fabric has been removed. If it's losing its springy quality, is stained, or has an unpleasant odor, it should also be replaced. Measure it with your tape measure and select replacement cushion material at a local craft store. You can find craft foam in several sizes and densities.

Record all of the fabric and cushion dimensions on a piece of paper and bring it with you to a craft/fabric store. Based on your measurements and the number of seats you need to re-cover, a sales associate can help you determine how many yards of fabric (and in what width) you will need to purchase.

Apply a generous amount of glue to the seat boat and cover with the replacement cushion foam, trimming away any excess with the scissors. Allow to dry for at least one hour.

Cut out the fabric replacements using your templates as a guide.

Pull the fabric taut and wrap it around the seat, stapling it into place on the wooden backing of the seats. Be careful not to pull it too taut, or the fabric could rip.

Reattach the cushion to the metal seat frame, and screw it back into place to secure it.