How to Refinish a Couch

Move the couch outdoors to a well-ventilated area before refinishing it. Alternatively, spread drop cloths under the couch to prevent damaging the floor and collect residue during the refinishing process. Remove the cushions and set these aside.

Pull out the upholstery staples that secure the fabric to the couch frame. Turn the couch on its side to access its base, and pull out the staples with a staple remover. Remove the staples along the sides, top and front of the couch to loosen and remove sections of the fabric. Set these fabric cutouts aside to use as a template for the new fabric later.

Inspect the wood frame for gouges or splits and seal these with wood adhesive. Wipe excess glue around the repaired section off with a wet cloth. Allow the adhesive to dry according to label directions.

Brush a coat of stain stripper over the arms and legs of the couch to remove old finishing. Let the chemical finish remain on the wood for the time specified on the label directions so it loosens the old paint or stain. Move your hand in circular motions to remove the old finish with a paint scrapper. You may need multiple stripper applications to remove the paint.

Wear thick gloves and a dust mask to prevent inhaling sanding residue. Sand chipped, scratched or splintered sections of the arms or legs with 320-grit sandpaper, moving in the direction of the grain of wood. Wipe sanding residue with a tack cloth.

Transfer the measurements of the old couch fabric to the new fabric in your desired color and cut it with sharp scissors.

Center and lower the fabric on the couch. Attach the new fabric, starting at the back of the couch. Insert a row of staples to attach the fabric to the bottom of the frame. Pull the fabric taut and extend it over the front of the couch. Insert rows of staples to attach the fabric to the corners and front of the frame. Sew the fabric for the front and upper arm sections to the couch by hand, using an upholstery needle and matching thread.