How can I bring this couch back to life?
by
Shira
+16
I found this couch on its way to the trash, I really want to rehab it. I don't know where to start! Should I reupholster it or paint it? I also want to add a new cushion to cover the seat (as the seat is pretty thin and uncomfortable). Please any advice or tips are needed! This is my first big project!
The before :)
a close up on the damaged arm
more damage, there are little spots like this around the edges
12 answers
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You can always get a slip on cover from IKEA... :-) Easy Breezy..
Milknhoneycreations
on Dec 29, 2014
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I would carefully take the cover off, saving the pieces to use as a pattern to make a new cover. Then remove the inner padding, save that, too. It may be that you can reuse some of it. Repair any damage to the frame, reglue and or nail joints to strengthen. You might try Youtube.com for a tutorial on reupholstering to find out how to measure for your new covering and all supplies needed to complete your project. OR if the wood is in nice shape, just sand, stain, or paint it and add a new cushion for the seat!
Kathi S
on Dec 29, 2014
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Is it fake leather/vinyl? It looks like the top layer is disintegrating. If that is the case, I would not paint it as the base you are painting may come away and peel off anyway. It would be hard to recover with fabric I think due to the curved shape. Not impossible, just a little tricky to get the fabric to follow the form of the chair.
Carole
on Dec 29, 2014
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I think you could recover it. Be sure to choose a sturdy fabric with very little stretch. You'll need at least one helper to keep the fabric straight while pulling and stapling! And a sewing machine that can handle heavy duty needles and fabric. Buy your new foam padding at a JoAnn's Fabric or Lowe's ~ take along measurements and a picture of the couch! They can help you. Don't waste your time painting. That covering is too shot to look good. If you get discouraged take those same measurements and pictures to an upholsterer's shop. In my opinion people who work with their hands are artists, no matter what their medium. And most are willing to share a little expertise. :)
Sheryl Johnson
on Dec 29, 2014
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My daughter is an artist, who did this chair. Maybe her blog will help: http://approachable-art.blogspot.com/2013/02/leather-chair-rehab.html
BevTexas
on Dec 29, 2014
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Well, you have some good advice with 'how'. Might I put in my opinion on 'what'? The shape of the piece is unique and interesting without being fussy; it strongly suggests two possible approaches to me - perhaps one will strike your fancy! a) go retro and recreate a fabulous diner-style banquette. Use an aqua pleather/vinyl for the seat and a quilted silvery fabric for the outside - then trim with an actual metal kickplate around the bottom (aluminum stripping, perhaps?) or a folded belt of more aqua vinyl studded with silver upholstery tacks to dress it up. Don't like aqua? How about red and silver? Add a swivel tray with a couple of vintage cola bottles, a checkerboard, and an old radio, and you're hip. b) go futuristic/space-age. Black goes with everything, so why not re-cover the outside curve in dark hues again? Preferably a charcoal, chalkboard, or very deep grey rather than pure black. Then pick a metallic grey (something darker than silver) for the seat. Cut 'panels' of metal grid for the front of the arms (end of the curves). Protect the raw edges and hold them in place with a wide frame of strapping (either a pressed 'belt' of the matching fabric or thin metal strips off a roll, the kind with holes in it that will take your upholstery tacks perfectly). Why not tuck a string of white christmas lights underneath when you're done so the piece looks like it's floating, and let your captain's chair take you to strange new planets?
Bard Judith
on Dec 29, 2014
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it looks like the arms are where most of the damage is located.My first choice would be to spray paint in a bright updated color.I would use a paint made for plastic.before painting would give the chair a nice washing to be sure the surface is clean.Bring the seat into a sewing store and have them help you purchase a small piece of foam rubber to raise up the seat.I would also purchase some material to cover the seat in a matching color or coordinating color.I would also buy enough extra fabric to make a pair of arm covers,just in case the spray paint doesn't cover the worn areas on the arms.Love your find!Have fun!!!
Funnygirl
on Dec 29, 2014
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How much money are you willing to spend?
Debra Adams
on Dec 30, 2014
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Thanks y'all for all of the advice! I will get back to you with the finished project :).
Shira
on Dec 31, 2014
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I would cover in a "comfortable" material. Probably make the cushion for the seat firm but comfortable and add semi flat cushioning for the back. The vinyl looks cold and uninviting and probably not very comfortable. Can't tell how the seat is supported but if the frame is wood you could put L brackets underneath to hold and fasten the seat. You can tell I'm not a carpenter, can't you. ha
Sue Sanders
on Nov 28, 2015
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I think you should recover it with some other material. You can have a new cover and recover it with the a stylish pattern that will give a more modern look. Moreover, you can also add designer cushions to add a more appealing look to this leather couch. And, for cushions you can try here https://www.rajrang.com/home-furnishing/pillow-cushions-covers/set-of-5-cushions-covers.html
Aakar Jain
on Apr 19, 2016
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First take measurements for yardage. Check your local fabric store, see what is available and what you like. Then it is fabric cost and cost of foam, thread, tools like stretcher, staple puller, tacks, trimming, etc. add it up. Weigh cost, do it yourself time and your hand strength. Maybe a slip cover. ?? Study frame if it needs repair. I hope you can go forward and find reupholstery your favorite new hobby. Also check YouTube for videos of 'how to reupholstery. Have fun and post your finished piece.
Lee
on Jul 19, 2016
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