What Do I Need to Reupholster a Couch?

Project Preparation Tools

• Gather the tools needed to measure the couch and break down the worn out materials on it. The measurements of the couch back, front, arms and cushions should be recorded to determine the yardage of materials needed for the project. You need a hammer, heavy duty shears and needle nose pliers to remove the old fabric and stuffing from the couch frame. Pliers and a pry bar will help remove fabric that is stapled to the frame of the couch. A pair of gloves will protect your hands during the process.

Couch Interior

• Reupholstering a couch may involve removing all of the old materials from inside of the protective fabric shell. Foam padding and webbing to hold it in place may have to be replaced if the interior of the couch has severe damage. New springs may be required if the old ones are broken or rusty.

Couch Exterior

• Choose upholstery fabric, but save the old fabric that covered the couch and the cushions. The pieces will help you make a pattern from the new fabric. Use a sewing machine to sew the main portions of the cushion covers and upholstery together before fitting them onto the couch. You may choose to make a muslin mock-up for the project rather than use the old fabric for a pattern. Welting or decorative trim gives the fabric a finished look.

Upholstery Tools

• A staple gun with staples that can penetrate heavy fabric, canvas webbing and wood is a necessary tool for an upholstery project. Curved and straight 6- to 24-inch long upholstery needles allow you to stitch the heavy fabric with upholstery quality thread. A tack hammer, mallet and square point knife for cutting foam will be helpful as you finish your project.