How to remodel a wing chair?
by
Val
I have two excellent wing chairs that I have used for 30 years and they are both still in great shape except for the polished cotton fabric. It has frayed in numerous places. Have looked online for slipcover but don’t think any will work because of flared wings. Reupholstering costs more than new chairs. Any suggestions?
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I feel your pain. We reupholster things all the time, just consider that the older stuff is made better than anything of the same cost you can get today. Plus if you love it and it works for you it is well worth the cost. I tell my clients if you have to put out cash anyway, why wouldn't you do it towards something of value rather than a cheap piece of furniture in a fabric you have to settle on?
Can you remove the cushions? If so, sew your own slip covers.
I’d make matching arm “sleeves”.
For the back I would make a hemmed “sling” that is racked under the bottom cushion and is stretched over the top, all the way down the back, under the frame bottom.
I would use a fabric that compliments what’s still showing of the old fabric.
I would also buy upholstery grade material, not lightweight cotton. Avoid Rayon, poly-olefin and acrylic, as they each have cleaning issues.
Here is a step by step tutorial whoch may help if you are thinking of doing it yourself. https://megeletto.wordpress.com/2011/02/20/how-to-reupholster-a-wingback-chair/