How to Add Cushioning to a Recliner Cushion

Remove the cushion from the recliner. Check the recliner to determine if it has a zipper enclosure. Open the zipper or skip to the next step.

Use a seam ripping tool to open the seam along the back of the cushion on cushions with no zippers. Remove the stuffing from inside of the cushion.

Measure the width, length and height of the cushion. Pull the cushion’s side seams open to determine how wide the cushion opens.

Place the block of upholstery foam on to the work surface. Cut the foam into a rectangle measuring 1 inch smaller than the measurement recorded in the previous step.

Slide the foam inside of the cushion fabric to ensure it fits easily inside. Cut down the foam additionally if needed. The foam block should feel slightly too small inside of the cushion fabric.

Remove the foam from inside the cushion. Cut a piece of quilt batting large enough to wrap around the foam. Wrap the foam snuggly inside of the batting. Use the same method you would use to wrap a Christmas gift, securing the batting with duct tape.

Slide the new stuffing block back inside of the cushion fabric. Ensure the block fits snuggly inside the fabric, making the cushion feel lush and full. If the block feels too small, remove it and wrap with another layer of batting.

Place the block back inside of the cushion. Zip the enclosure shut. For cushions without a zipper enclosure, thread a needle with thread that matches the cushion fabric. Turn the ragged edges of the seam you removed in toward the inside of the cushion. Sew the edge closed. Push the needle through the two sides of the open seam. Pull it though completely. Bring the needle back to the side where you started. Push through again. Continue with this whip stitch motion until the seam is closed.

Replace the cushion.