Reupholster an Armchair or Replace the Cushions: What Makes Sense?

Check the frame first: sit down and rock gently. A sound chair does not creak, shift or flex at the joints. Look underneath for cracks in the wood or at the welds.

If the frame passes, the fabric and the padding are the only problems, and there are three ways to deal with them: re-cover it yourself, have an upholsterer reupholster it, or replace the cushions if they are removable.

On a chair with fixed upholstery, the fabric is stretched, tacked or stapled and sewn around the frame. That is skilled work, which is why it usually needs an upholsterer, and the price can come close to that of a good new chair, so get a quote before you decide.

It is worth it for a chair with a fine frame or sentimental value. For a chair with loose cushions, there is a simpler route.

Loose cushions with zipped covers can sometimes be re-covered at home by someone who sews. Fixed upholstery, piping and a shaped back are much harder to get right, and taking the chair apart risks damaging the frame.

If you are buying a new armchair, choosing one whose cushions can be replaced saves the question altogether.

The seat and back cushions on Kent and Einar can be swapped yourself, without an upholsterer. The chart below sets out what can be replaced.

Cushions are made in the same factory in Malmö as the armchairs, so a replacement matches the original in shape and fit. Spare parts stay available long after purchase, because a chair that can be repaired is a chair that lasts.

You can reach us through our contact page. Our guide to cleaning an armchair may save the cushion you have: most marks come off with lukewarm water and mild soap.