Spring is here, which means warmer weather is on its way to stay. Before you know it, more time will be spent outside, which is why now is the perfect time to give your outdoor furniture a facelift. While you could go out and purchase a new set, reupholstering what you have will ensure you get exactly what you want. Here’s a how-to on making your worn-out fabrics look new again.
Supplies needed: Fabric, thread, needles, utility knife, needle nose pliers, scissors, staple gun, pencil and padding material
Step 1: Expose the bare frame. To begin, you’ll need to remove any pieces that are unattached like cushions and set them aside. Carefully cut along the seams with your utility knife. Use the needle nose pliers to pull any staples you encounter and preserve as much of the fabric as you can. Keeping it intact will make it easier when it comes time to measure the new fabric.
Step 2: Pull out the old filling. If you’re taking time to change out your fabric, you should take care of the filling as well. Padding and stuffing gets flat over time and that’s something that won’t look good with new fabric. Keep as much as you can intact so you can use it when measuring the replacement filling.
Step 3: Take your measurements. Lay out each individual piece of old fabric and take your measurements. Be as accurate as possible and make sure you don’t skip any sections of the furniture.
Step 4: Transfer your measurements and cut your new pieces. To avoid mistakes, work one section at a time. After they’re cut, lay them out according to their order of installation. Measure and cut your new filling as well. Lay them out in their proper position.
Step 5: Sew it up. The job will go smoother if you sew in the largest panels first. In most cases, the back and middle of the furniture will be the biggest and should be taken care of first. After you’re done, move on to the small panels. Continue this process until all of the fabric, including the cushion fabric, is taken care of.
Step 6: Reinstall the cushions. Once the cushions are fully reupholstered, replace them on the furniture.
Once you’ve finished all of these steps, you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy your fresh-looking furniture. Be sure to check out our selection of outdoor fabrics that will work wonderfully for your project.
When you are looking for a fabric store near you in Keller, stop by our Cutting Corners location in Fort Worth, TX on South Hulen Street for great deals on discount designer fabrics. You will find something for every home interior project from gorgeous drapery fabrics to light weight cottons and luxurious Dupioni Silks.