How to Fix a Tear in Chair Upholstery

Glue the fabric together -- if the tear is small -- by trimming the edges to create a clean line. Apply a thin line of instant adhesive, such as cyanoacrylate, to one side. Press the tear shut for a minute or two as the glue seals. This works well for vinyl, leather and fabric upholstery. Do not use glue if the fabric is so tight it wants to pull apart or if the tear is in a section that supports a lot of weight; it will likely pull apart again.

Sew the tear shut using 5-pound nylon fishing line and a needle. The clear fishing line will blend with any color and is subtle if you make a mistake. Trim any excess threads away so you have a clean tear to sew. Tie a knot in the end of the line as you normally would, and feed the needle from the underside of the fabric back up to the top. Always work from the underside so the stitches are less visible and push the needle in as close to the edges as possible. Secure the finished end with a knot and tuck the end back inside the tear so it is less visible.

Cut a small piece of canvas that is just bigger than the tear. Pull the torn edge up and work the canvas under the tear with a spoon so it sits flat under the upholstery. Squeeze a thin line of latex fabric adhesive under the edge of the tear. Smooth the tear over the glue and hold it in place by pressing pins straight down around the edge of the fabric while it dries. Using a soft cloth, wipe up any excess glue that squeezed out. Allow the glue to set, according to package instructions.

Measure the tear and cut a piece of upholstery tape that is about half-inch longer than the tear. Open the tear up and slide the upholstery tape under it so the adhesive side is up and the tape lies flat. Press the upholstery down at one end so it adheres to the tape. Continue pressing down onto the tape until the entire tear is sealed closed with the tape. Use this in conjunction with sewing the upholstery, if necessary; it will hold the tear still as you sew.