How Much Does It Cost to Reupholster Furniture in budget ?2025

Reupholstery means giving your old furniture a fresh new look by replacing the fabric and fixing any broken parts. Reupholster Furniture can cost a little or a lot, depending on a few important things. Let’s break it down so it’s easy to understand.

What Affects the Price?

Several things can change the cost of reupholstering your furniture:

Size of the furniture: Big furniture like sofas cost more than small chairs.

Type of fabric: Some fabrics are cheap, like cotton, while others, like leather, cost a lot.

Work time (labor): The person doing the job charges for their time. The more complicated the work, the more it costs.

Age and condition: Old or damaged furniture may need more fixing, which adds to the price.

Where you live: Prices change depending on your state or city.

Common Furniture Reupholstery Prices

Here’s how much you might pay to fix up different pieces:

Furniture	Cost Range
Chaise lounge	$900 – $1,500
Dining chair	$50 – $130
Headboard	$200 – $2,000
Recliner chair	$500 – $1,700
Leather furniture	$100 – $4,000
Ottoman	$300 – $700
Outdoor cushions	$50 – $500
Sofa or couch	$600 – $4,000

 

Breaking It Down: Popular Pieces

Couches: Cost between $600 and $4,000. Sectionals (the really big couches) cost the most.

Chairs: Small ones like dining chairs may only cost $50 to fix. Big ones with arms can cost up to $2,000.

Outdoor Cushions: Usually cheaper, from $50 to $500, unless you have a big outdoor setup.

Ottomans: Reupholstering costs about $300 to $700.

Headboards: These cost more if they are large or fancy—between $200 and $2,000.

How Much Does Fabric Cost?

The kind of fabric you choose affects the cost. Some fabrics are strong and cheap. Others are soft and fancy but expensive.

Fabric	Cost Per Yard
Cotton	$8 – $12
Leather	$70 – $140
Linen	$12 – $25
Nylon	$5 – $8
Polyester	$6 – $10
Silk	$20 – $40
Vinyl	$5 – $10

You’ll need several yards of fabric, depending on the size of your furniture.

Extra Costs to Think About

Cleaning before reupholstery: $125–$225

Fixing scratches or broken parts: $350–$900

Moving the furniture: $100–$300 if you hire someone

Where You Live Matters

Prices are different in each state. For example:

In California, it might cost $400 to $1,520.

In Michigan, it might only cost $270 to $520.

In Texas, it’s around $425 to $830.

Should You Reupholster or Buy New?

Sometimes, it costs about the same to fix old furniture or buy new. Here’s a quick look: 

If your furniture is special (like an antique or a family treasure), it might be worth fixing instead of replacing.

Furniture	Reupholster	Buy New
Armchair	$500–$1,700	$300–$3,000
Dining Chair	$50–$130	$100–$400
Sofa	$600–$4,000	$600–$4,000
Ottoman	$300–$700	$200–$500
Outdoor Cushion	$50–$500	$50–$500

Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?

Do it yourself: Can save you money, but it takes time and skill.

Hire a pro: Costs more, but the job will be done right.

Fabric and tools for DIY cost less than hiring a pro, but mistakes can be costly if you’re not careful.

 

How to Save Money on Reupholstery

1. Choose Budget-Friendly Fabrics
If you’re trying to cut costs, start with the fabric. Materials like nylon and polyester are affordable, durable, and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. While high-end fabrics like silk or leather may look luxurious, they can significantly raise your budget. Sticking to cost-effective options can help you get a fresh look without draining your wallet.

2. Go for Durable Materials
Spending a little more on strong, long-lasting fabrics can save you money in the long run. Heavier-duty materials won’t wear out as quickly, meaning you won’t have to redo the upholstery again anytime soon. Look for fabrics that are specifically labeled for heavy use or upholstery-grade to ensure longevity.

3. Fix Everything at Once
If the frame is a bit wobbly or some parts are chipped or scratched, take care of all repairs during the reupholstery process. This is more efficient and often more affordable than fixing issues separately later. Bundling repairs with upholstery often lowers labor costs and gives you a better final result.

4. Reupholster Multiple Pieces Together
Do you have more than one chair or a matching set? Bringing in multiple items at once can earn you a bulk discount from many upholstery shops. Whether it’s a dining set or a living room ensemble, tackling them together can be cheaper and ensures a uniform finish.

5. Skip the Moving Fees—Transport It Yourself
If you have access to a truck or a friend who does, consider delivering and picking up the furniture yourself. Many professionals charge for pick-up and delivery, and this can add $100–$300 to your total cost. A little bit of muscle and planning can keep that money in your pocket.

6. Try a Deep Clean Before Reupholstering
Sometimes, a good professional cleaning is all your furniture needs. If your piece is still structurally sound and the fabric isn’t torn, faded, or sagging, try steam cleaning or stain treatment first. It might surprise you how refreshed it looks—and it costs far less than a full reupholstery job.

7.DIY Table Refinishing
If your dining table or coffee table is scratched, worn, or outdated, refinishing it yourself is a great budget option. With basic tools, sandpaper, and a good stain or paint, you can give a tired table a whole new look for under $100.

Final Thoughts

Reupholstering your furniture might seem like a big project, but it can be totally worth it—especially if you love the piece or it holds sentimental value. Whether you’re working with a comfy old sofa or a vintage chair passed down through your family, giving it a fresh new look can breathe life back into your space. Sure, it comes with some costs, but with a little planning (and maybe a few smart choices), you can stick to your budget. In the end, it’s not just about saving money—it’s about holding onto the things that make your home feel like you.