Tips for Beginners for Reupholstering a Wingback Chair

Take Measurements

• Thorough preparation reduces time and effort during the reupholstery process. Take accurate measurements of the parts of the chair so you know how much fabric is needed. Draw a rough sketch of the chair and label the lengths and widths of each part, including the seat, inner back, outer back, sides, inner and outer wings and the lower front of the wingback chair, so you don’t miss any spot. Assign a helper to record the measurements while you take them.

Prepare Chair

• The chair has to be in good condition and fully padded before it is covered with fabric. Remove the staples that hold the existing fabric to the chair using a staple remover. Avoid damaging the fabric pieces since they form the patterns for the new fabric. Retouch sections of the wood with chipping paint or stain to enhance its appearance. If required, repair cracks in the wood with glue, or replace sections that are completely broken or damaged. Replace the padding on the seat or back if it is worn out.

Prepare Fabric

• Use plain fabric to reduce the complications associated with patterned or striped fabric, especially since you are covering the chair for the first time. Because a wingback chair is typically a heavily used piece of furniture, opt for durable, stain-resistant fabric that lasts a long time. Spread the old cutouts on the new fabric and cut around each using sharp scissors. Pinning the edges of the old and new fabrics together makes the task of cutting easier.

Cover Chair

• When covering the chair with the fabric, spread the new cutouts over the corresponding chair sections so you know where each piece goes. Tuck the fabric in the edges of the frame so it's smooth and wrinkle free before inserting staples into its edges to secure it in place. Work from one section to the other, smoothing the fabric before stapling it to prevent creases. Hot-glue decorative trim on the seams to finish the reupholstery project.