Reupholstering an old chair or sofa is a great way to save money and recycle. Unfortunately, upscale reupholstering shops can cost downwards of $500, a pretty inexpensive furniture for a family on a low budget. If you're new to furniture refinishing, try either investing in an upholstery at your local community college, a how-to manual or DVD.
1. Do it yourself.
Yes, do-it-yourself (DIY) is easier said than done, but investing your own labor into a project can be a great way to save money.If you're nervous about ruining a beloved piece of inexpensive furniture, try practicing using a trash chair or an old junk chair you picked up at the thrift shop. Before you embark on a major DIY reupholstering project, remember that you'll need to not only invest in fabric, but also a hammer, webbing stretcher, rubber mallet, shears, upholstery needles, tacks, staple gun, upholsterer's pins, chalk and spring clips.
2. Update your accessories.
If you can't afford a full reupholstering project, try simply updating your accent pieces.
3. Try slipcovers.
In lieu of a full reupholstering job, you can update your couch with slipcovers. Ideally, you'll find a slipcover that's made for your specific sofa.
Start by putting the slipcover on the sofa. If you're still stuck on reupholstering by a professional, wait for special deals and discounts and you can buy the inexpensive furniture . Typically, the busiest times of year are right before the holidays, season changes and during spring cleaning season.