How Much Does It Cost to Reupholster a Couch?

Average Cost to Reupholster a Sofa by Type

Depending on the type of couch that needs reupholstering, the costs will vary.

Loveseat

The cost to reupholster a loveseat typically runs from $600 to $2,000. The tightness of the fabric on the back of the couch plays a large role in how much the reupholstery job costs. Furniture with tight material usually needs 5 to 10 yards of fabric, whereas couches with loose material that’s intricately designed could require up to 18 yards of fabric.

Leather Couch 

A reupholstery job for a leather couch usually runs between $600 and $4,000. The price varies depending on the size of the couch, but at $30 to $60 per yard, leather doesn’t generally cost more than other upholstery fabric. 

Sectional

Reupholstering a sectional costs between $2,000 and $4,000. Sectionals are larger than average couches, and the larger the couch, the more material necessary. An average-sized sectional usually needs around 36 yards of fabric for reupholstery, which is why the cost is significantly higher.

Couch Cushion Reupholstery

If you need individual cushions reupholstered, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 per cushion, not including restuffing. Costs for cushions depend on size, fabric, and any added features like zipper installation.

Outdoor Couch Cushion Recovery

For outdoor cushions, the cost is usually between $50 and $500 per cushion. Depending on the size, fabric, and added features, the costs will vary.

Chaise Lounge

The cost to reupholster a chaise lounge usually falls around $900 to $1,500. The cost varies depending on the style of the chaise. Chaises with backs and arms and larger models require more material, so they usually cost more to reupholster.

Couch Reupholstery Cost Factors

Because $600 to $4,000 is a significant range, it’s important to break down the costs that comprise a furniture upholstery job so you can calculate how much to budget. The costs break down into several basic categories:

• Type and amount of fabric

• Labor

• Couch condition

• Tufting

• Seat cushions

• Transportation expenses

Type and Amount of Fabric

Fabric usually costs between $10 and $200 per yard. Upholstery fabric comes in a wide variety of colors and textures, and the quality of the fabric greatly affects the price. The quantity of fabric you need also affects the cost; reupholstering a loveseat will cost more than reupholstering a large sectional, for example.

Labor Costs

Labor costs to reupholster a couch typically range between $40 and $100 per hour, depending on the scope of the project. Each professional will determine their own rate based on how difficult they think the project will be and how much time the project will take. Geographic location could also factor into labor costs.

Couch Condition

Repairing a couch costs around $250, and that cost can vary depending on what part of the couch is damaged. The worse condition of the couch, the higher the likelihood that the job will cost more. Any cost of repairs would be on top of the amount you pay for labor and materials for the reupholstering job.

Tufting and Seat Cushions

Tufting usually adds around 30% to the cost of reupholstering a couch, and restuffing of seat cushions adds between $100 and $175 to the total. Since tufting is a specialized technique and requires extra fabric, you can expect to pay more if you need tufting redone.

Transportation

The cost of transporting a couch to the upholsterer’s location usually runs between $100 and $300 per trip. Upholsterers need to work on furniture in their own shop, and the cost varies depending on the size and handling of the couch.

Cost to Recover a Sofa

If you’re in need of other work on your couch in addition to reupholstering, or if your upholstering pro finds that your couch needs interior repairs, there may be additional costs.

Restuffing Couch Cushions Cost

Restuffing a 24-by-24-inch couch cushion costs $100 to $1,200, depending on the material. 

• Foam: $100–$200

• Down-enveloped foam: $200–$500

• 100% down: $200–$1,200

The cost to restuff pillows usually ranges between $100 and $175 per cushion. Restuffing your cushions and pillows can revitalize your couch, especially if it gets a lot of use. To keep your couch looking and feeling its best, you should assess your cushions and pillows every couple years to see if they need more stuffing.

Other Couch Refurbishing Costs

• New padding: To re-pad areas of your couch like the arms and back, you can expect to pay between $10 and $20 per square foot. Like seat cushion stuffing, padding on a couch naturally breaks down over time with use, so this is not an uncommon problem for an upholsterer to find.

• Seat spring replacement: Seat spring replacement for couches generally costs between $220 and $400. Collapsed springs are a common problem in couches that get a lot of wear, and replacing collapsed springs while having upholstery work is less costly than doing the task alone. Seat spring replacement also takes a good amount of time, so expect another four to eight hours of work from your repair pro.

• Frame repair: Couch frame repair usually costs between $50 and $240, depending on the extent of work needed. Generally, unless a couch has been damaged somehow, work on the frame isn’t necessary. However, a broken frame can lead to the sofa leaning, sinking, or making unpleasant noises and should be addressed to prevent further damage.

Is Reupholstering a Sofa Worth It?

If you're happy with the piece and the frame is quality and in good condition, reupholstering is worth it. Reupholstering is a good option if:

• The couch is an antique

• It has a hardwood frame

• You simply love it

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro for Couch Reupholstering

Upholstery requires a very specific set of skills and training, so most homeowners choose to hire a local furniture upholsterer as opposed to DIY-ing. If done incorrectly, reupholstering can ruin a furniture piece. Plus, while it takes a pro several hours of work to complete an upholstery project, it could take much longer if you DIY as you learn by trial and error.

FAQs

How long does it take to reupholster a couch?

Depending on the size of the piece, reupholstering a couch takes between five and 25 hours. Sectionals take longer than loveseats, for example. If your pro is busy, it can take up to a month for them to complete a reupholstering job. However, you might be able to get your couch sooner if you’re willing to pay a rush fee.

Is it worth it to reupholster a sofa?

If you love the piece and it’s valuable or an antique, it’s worth it to invest in a reupholstery job.

How much fabric do I need to reupholster a couch?

The amount of fabric varies by the size of the couch, but it usually takes 5 to 36 yards of fabric to reupholster a couch. The average three-seat sofa needs 14 to 18 yards of fabric.

How much does it cost to get a matching pillow created for a sofa?

​​Upholstering a pillow for your sofa costs $50 to $125. The total may be less if you already have the fabric.

How much does it cost to reupholster a chair or recliner?

The u can be anywhere from $50 to $2,000. Reupholstering an ottoman usually ruins between $300 and $1,000.