How to Upholster a Chaise

Pull fabric from the frame of the chair by removing staples with the flat edge of a screwdriver. This should be done as gently as possible so you can preserve the previous material as pattern pieces for the new upholstery fabric. On areas where the fabric is glued, scrape away the glue or cut the fabric with a blade.

Repair any scuffs or damage to the arms and legs of the chair. Before replacing the cushions or fabric, be sure the chair is ready for use. Replace any broken parts, sand and paint over any discoloration and tighten chair springs as needed.

Create new foam cushions for the chaise where there are signs of wear. To create your cushions, trace out the shape you need onto a piece of 2-inch upholstery foam. Cut out the cushion with a manual or electric utility knife. Wrap in cotton batting and glue in place to the underside of the cushion with spray adhesive.

Create a pattern piece for each portion of the chaise. Drape a piece of muslin cloth over the sections of the chaise and trace out a pattern. It does not have to be exact because any excess will be trimmed or hidden underneath the chair's frame. Add 2 inches around each side of your pattern and cut out your pattern pieces.

Position the pattern pieces over your new upholstery fabric. Trace out the shape. To prevent any shifting during your tracing, pin the pattern to the fabric. Remove the pins and cut out your new fabric pieces.

Position your fabric over the corresponding portions of the chair. Staple the new fabric in place over the chaise to the underside of the chair frame. Pull the fabric taut to keep the fabric looking smooth. Start with the seat of your chaise before continuing to the sides, inside back, outer back and armrests. If your chaise features a dust ruffle at the bottom of the chair, add this last.

Hide seams with decorative piping using hot glue. For areas where stapling is not an option, push the fabric into the chair seams with metal flexible jaw stripping. Hammer the stripping in place with a mallet.