How Much Fabric Do I Need To Cover A Chair?

When I bought a new set of dining chairs, I realized that they didn’t match the rest of my furniture. I decided to give them a makeover by covering them in a new fabric. However, I had no idea how much fabric I would need to cover each chair.

Step by Step Guide

Here is a step by step guide on how to calculate the amount of fabric you need to cover a chair:

Step 1: Measure the Chair

Measure the height, width, and depth of your chair. Be sure to measure the backrest and the seat separately.

Step 2: Determine the Fabric Width

Check the width of the fabric you plan to use. Most upholstery fabrics come in widths of 54 inches or 60 inches.

Step 3: Calculate the Fabric Needed for the Seat

For the seat, measure the width and depth of the cushion. Multiply the two numbers together. Then, add 2 inches to each measurement for seam allowances. Divide the total by the width of the fabric. This will give you the number of yards needed for the seat.

Step 4: Calculate the Fabric Needed for the Backrest

For the backrest, measure the width and height of the cushion. Multiply the two numbers together. Then, add 2 inches to each measurement for seam allowances. Divide the total by the width of the fabric. This will give you the number of yards needed for the backrest.

Step 5: Add the Yards Together

Add the number of yards needed for the seat and the backrest together. This will give you the total number of yards needed to cover the chair.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Here are some tips and ideas to keep in mind when covering a chair with fabric:

Choose a durable and easy-to-clean fabric.
Consider the color and pattern of the fabric in relation to the rest of the room.
Take your time when measuring the chair to ensure accuracy.
Use a staple gun to attach the fabric to the chair.
Consider adding piping or trim to the edges of the chair for a finished look.
Practice on a small piece of fabric before covering the entire chair.
Consider using a slipcover instead of permanently covering the chair.
Get creative with different fabrics for the seat and backrest.
Consider adding a cushion to the seat for extra comfort.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Pros and Cons

There are both pros and cons to covering a chair with fabric:

Pros:

Allows you to update the look of a chair without buying a new one.
Gives you the opportunity to choose a fabric that matches your personal style.
Can be a fun and creative DIY project.

Cons:

Can be time-consuming and require some DIY skills.
May require special tools like a staple gun or sewing machine.
May not be as durable as a professionally upholstered chair.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

After covering my dining chairs with fabric, I was thrilled with the results. The chairs looked brand new and matched my decor perfectly. However, the process was more time-consuming than I anticipated and required a lot of patience and attention to detail. I would definitely recommend this DIY project to anyone looking to update their furniture, but I would suggest doing some research and practicing on a small piece of fabric first.

Question and Answer / FAQs

Q: Can I cover a chair with any type of fabric?

A: While you can technically cover a chair with any type of fabric, it’s important to choose a durable and easy-to-clean fabric that can withstand daily use.

Q: Do I need to remove the existing fabric before covering a chair?

A: It’s not necessary to remove the existing fabric, but it’s important to ensure that the fabric is clean and free of any debris before covering it with a new fabric.

Q: Can I cover a chair without sewing?

A: Yes, you can use a staple gun or fabric glue to attach the fabric to the chair without sewing. However, sewing may provide a more finished look.