Reupholstering your lounge chair is an excellent way to refresh your old furniture without breaking the bank. Whether it’s an heirloom, a favorite chair, or a piece that just needs a new look, reupholstering can be both a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice. This guide will help you understand everything you need to know about the reupholstering process, from the costs involved to making the right decisions about materials and professionals.

Key Factors That Affect the Cost of Reupholstering

Several factors influence the overall cost of reupholstering a lounge chair. Let’s break them down so you know what to expect.

Chair Type and Size

The complexity of your chair plays a major role in determining costs. Larger chairs or chairs with special features will be more expensive to reupholster.

• Small to Medium Chairs: These typically cost between $300 to $800 to reupholster.
• Large Chairs or Recliners: These could cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000 depending on their size and features.

Fabric Choice

Fabric is another major cost factor. More luxurious materials like leather or velvet cost more, while budget-friendly options like polyester or faux leather can help keep costs down.

Common Fabric Costs:

Fabric Type	Price Range (per yard)
Synthetic Fabrics (Polyester, Faux Leather)	$10–$45
Natural Fabrics (Cotton, Linen, Velvet)	$20–$100
Leather	$40–$60

Chair Frame Condition

If your chair frame is damaged or weak, additional repairs will be needed. This could add extra costs to the project.

Tip: Inspect your chair carefully before deciding to reupholster. If repairs are necessary, factor that into your budget.

Material and Labor Cost Breakdown

Now that we’ve looked at the key factors, let’s dive deeper into the cost breakdown between materials and labor.

Material Costs

Materials can vary widely in price, and the fabric you choose will impact your overall budget. Here’s a rough idea of what to expect for fabric costs.

• Synthetic Fabrics: Around $10 to $45 per yard.
• Natural Fabrics: Typically $20 to $100 per yard.
• Leather: Expect to pay $40 to $60 per yard for high-quality leather.

Labor Costs

Labor costs range from $40 to $100 per hour, depending on your location and the complexity of the job. Reupholstering a chair might take anywhere from 5 to 10 hours for simpler designs, while more intricate chairs can take longer.

Tip: Get a clear estimate from your upholsterer before starting to avoid any unexpected costs.

Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Lounge Chair

The fabric you choose will impact both the cost and look of your reupholstered lounge chair. Here’s an overview of common fabric options and their costs.

Fabric Type	Price Range (per yard)	Pros	Cons
Cotton Blends	$10–$30	Affordable, breathable	Stains easily
Polyester	$10–$45	Durable, stain-resistant	Less luxurious
Leather	$40–$60	Long-lasting, premium feel	Expensive, needs maintenance
Velvet	$50–$100	Luxurious, soft texture	Expensive, shows wear over time

Tip: If the chair will get heavy use, opt for more durable fabrics like polyester or faux leather.

How Location Affects Reupholstery Costs

Where you live can also impact how much it costs to reupholster your chair. Labor costs tend to be higher in cities, while rural areas might offer more affordable options.

Labor Costs by Region

• Urban Areas: Higher costs due to increased demand and the cost of living.
• Suburban and Rural Areas: Lower labor rates, though the availability of skilled professionals may be limited.

Transportation Costs

If your chair needs to be delivered to an upholstery shop, delivery fees can add $100 to $300 to your costs, depending on the size of the chair and distance.

Tip: If you can, transport the chair yourself to save on delivery fees.

DIY vs. Professional Reupholstery: Which Option Is Best?

You’ll need to decide whether you want to take the DIY route or hire a professional. Both options come with their own benefits and challenges.

DIY Approach

Reupholstering a chair yourself can save you money, but it also requires time and skill.

Advantages of DIY:

• Cost Savings: You save on labor costs.
• Creative Control: You can select the exact fabric and design you want.

Challenges of DIY:

• Skill Requirements: Reupholstering is tricky and mistakes can be costly.
• Time-Consuming: DIY projects take longer, especially if you’re new to the process.

Professional Reupholstery

Hiring a professional ensures the job is done right, and it’s faster than doing it yourself.

Advantages of Professional Upholstery:

• Expertise: Professionals have the right skills and tools to handle even complex chairs.
• Quality Results: Expect a higher-quality finish and durability.

Tip: For valuable or intricate chairs, professional reupholstery is often worth the extra cost.

How Long Does It Take to Reupholster a Lounge Chair?

The time it takes to reupholster your lounge chair can vary depending on the complexity of the job and whether repairs are required.

Professional Timeline

• Simple Chairs: Expect 1 to 2 weeks for completion.
• Complex Chairs: More intricate projects could take up to 3 weeks.

DIY Timeline

If you decide to do it yourself, expect the process to take 1 to 2 weeks, especially if you’re a beginner.

Tip: Be realistic about the time it will take, particularly if you’re new to reupholstering.

Reupholstering vs. Buying New: Cost Comparison

At times, buying a new chair may be more affordable than reupholstering, especially if your car’s frame is damaged or the cost of reupholstering is too high.

When to Reupholster:

• The frame is still in good condition.
• You have sentimental value attached to the chair.

When to Buy New:

• The frame is broken or unstable.

If the cost of reupholstering is nearly the same as buying a new chair, you might want to skip the hassle and go for something new. You can find affordable and durable options in the Lounger Chairs section at Aosom.

Tip: If reupholstering costs more than half the price of a new chair, it might be time to consider purchasing a replacement.

FAQs

1. How Do I Know If My Lounge Chair Is Worth Reupholstering?

If your chair frame is sturdy and free from major damage, reupholstering is usually worth it. For valuable or sentimental pieces, this option makes sense over buying new. However, if the frame is unstable, it may be better to purchase a replacement.

2. How Can I Save Money on Reupholstering?

To save on costs, compare quotes from multiple upholsterers and buy your own fabric. Opt for less expensive fabrics like polyester or faux leather instead of high-end materials like velvet or leather. Transport the chair yourself to avoid delivery fees.

3. How Do Fabric Choices Affect the Cost of Reupholstering?

The fabric you choose will significantly impact the price. Budget options like polyester cost between $10 to $45 per yard, while premium fabrics like leather range from $40 to $60 per yard. Always consider durability and use before making a decision.

4. Should I DIY or Hire a Professional for Reupholstering?

DIY saves on labor costs but requires time, skill, and patience. If you’re new to upholstery, mistakes could increase costs. Hiring a professional ensures quality and faster completion, especially for intricate or valuable chairs.