The average cost to reupholster a couch is $1800, but ranges from $400 to $4500 depending on various factors such as design, fabric used, labor and size.
If your couch is old and worn, or holds sentimental value and needs a refreshed look, reupholstery may be a good option. Or perhaps you’ve discovered a fabulous find in a vintage or thrift shop that needs a second chance?
Not only is reupholstery a good way to preserve a beloved furniture piece, it’s also a sustainable, eco-friendly way to save money and carry forward memories. Couch reupholstery revives your old furniture into a new era and can support your everyday lifestyle, all within your defined budget.
Let’s learn more about the details of reupholstery costs for couches.
What Influences Couch Reupholstery Costs?
Fabric
There are several factors that influence reupholstery costs. First, there’s the material costs to consider. Fabric can cost between $18 to over $100 a yard, depending on both the quality and type of fabric you choose to use. If you’re partial to less expensive fabrics, such as cotton or polyester, you might even find fabric costs as low as $8-12 a yard. Be mindful that when selecting a fabric option, it’s important to consider quality and longevity. Couch reupholstery is an investment and the materials used are significant part of that overall expense.
Fabric Price Ranges
| Fabric Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Cotton | $8–$12 |
| Leather | $70–$135 |
| Linen | $12–$25 |
| Nylon | $5–$8 |
| Polyester | $6–$10 |
| Silk | $20–$40 |
| Vinyl | $5–$10 |
Table Source: How Much Does Reupholstery Cost? Angi.com
Small to midsize couches can require up to 18 yards of fabric, while larger ones and sectionals can require as much as 36 yards for the job.
Couch Size and Design
Larger couches typically require more fabric, labor and time during a reupholstery project. And if your couch has a unique shape or special features such as piping accents, decorative details or even a skirt, that too can impact to repair costs. Any changes to the frame itself can also impact the project cost.
Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of couch reupholstery by type:
Reupholstery Cost- by Couch Type
| Couch Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Love Seat | $600-$2,000 |
| Sectional | $2,000-$4,000 |
| Chaise Lounge | $900-$1,500 |
| French Provincial | $800-$1,500 |
| Camelback Sofa | $1,000-$1,200 |
| Tight back Sofa | $1,000-$1,200 |
| Semi-attached back sofa | $1,000-$1,300 |
| Tufted back sofa | $1,400-$1,500 |
| Leather Couch | $1,000-$4,000 |
Table Source: How Much Does It Cost to Reupholster a Couch? Homeguide.com
If you’re looking to refresh the couch and add additional distinctive features, the cost of service will likely be higher than the average range. Be sure to connect with a professional to gauge pricing ranges for your reupholstery project.
Labor
Costs for professional services vary, typically between $40 to $100 per hour. The hourly price differential depends on the skill level and experience of the professional. When calculating your budget for this project, it’s important to bear in mind that the hourly rate does not include material costs.
Couch Repair Labor Costs
| Repair type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Frame repair | $150-$250 |
| Seat spring replacement | $220-$400 |
| Replacing cushion stuffing (foam) | $100-$200 |
| Replacing cushion stuffing (down) | $200-$1,200 |
Table Source: How Much Does It Cost to Reupholster a Couch? Homeguide.com
Save Money on Your Couch Reupholstery Project
Before embarking on this project, you’ll likely want to plan your budget. Of course, renovations of any kind will require a budget. Here are some tips to help you plan:
- Carefully research your fabric options ahead of executing your project. There are many options out there and, as we’ve recently learned, the pricing varies by the yard. When making your fabric choices be mindful of your overall project budget.
- If you’re pursing the professional route, consider contacting multiple upholsterers when comparing pricing and skills. This way you have more than one option to review ahead of making a choice on a very costly project.
- Planning ahead is also helpful. If you choose a skilled professional, they may also have other projects on their schedule. Some may be booked out for a few weeks, and then may take up to 4 weeks to complete your project. A couch reupholstery project can take anywhere from 5 to 25 hours to complete.
Other Options
Couch Recovering
While reupholstery is a great option for many, there are others to consider as well. For example, you might consider re-covering your couch instead. This means you replace the surface of the couch, rather than a complete structural repair. In this case you can select fabrics and have a slipcover made (or, make it yourself!) to introduce a new chapter to your furniture piece. You may even be able to find a good slipcover that’s premade. Generally speaking, slipcovers come in different fabrics and styles. Taking care of them includes washing them on occasion so that they’ll last a while.
DIY Project
If you’re a handy craftsperson, you may consider a DIY project. This type of project takes considerable time, tools, materials and skill. Should you pursue this route, you’ll also need to exercise a lot of patience as this process does take some time to complete, especially if your furniture piece is complex.
Buying a New Couch
If your couch is too far gone or is not as sentimental as you’d originally thought, you may also consider purchasing a new piece altogether. There are plenty of great furniture retailers out there, both big box store and a local shop, that can help you find the right new piece.
As you make your decision, consider how much you might want to spend on a new piece. If you’re budget allows for using a financing option for a new couch, then you might consider using a credit option to help you achieve your goal. After all, there can may several reasons for using a credit card for a big home purchase. And, if you’re a Synchrony HOME™ Credit Card holder, you can use it at select retailers near you to help finance a new couch.
The bottom line: Consider your options
Whether you choose couch reupholstery or pursue another route, there are plenty of options out there. As you consider the emotional value of your couch, you’ll cycle all options, including which professional to choose, other repair alternatives or even if you’re leaning towards purchasing a new furniture piece altogether.
Whichever you choose, Synchrony is here to help you along your way. We have multiple products and partners that can be of assistance to you along your journey.
Explore the Synchrony Marketplace for furniture retailer options and deals that can help you complete home projects step by step.
