How to Replace Seat Fabric/Cushioning

Written By: Jannai Garcia

Comments: 0

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

Time Required

35 minutes

Introduction

If your chair seat is broken, stained, or generally worn-out, this guide will help you replace the seat's fabric and/or foam, keeping your chair out of the landfill.

A chair seat usually consists of foam covered with fabric, attached to a panel for a sturdy base. With normal use, the fabric may tear, and/or the foam may flatten or be exposed, making your chair a bit ugly or uncomfortable. After completing this guide, your chair will look and feel brand-new!

Tools

Step 1

Unscrew the seat from the chair frame using a screwdriver.
The type of screws securing the seat to the frame will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer; choose the appropriate screwdriver for your particular chair.

Step 2

Once the seat is separate from its base, flip it upside-down and remove the fabric staples with pliers.
Remove the fabric.
Optional: if you wish to replace the foam as well, place the seat base on top of the foam and trace around it with a marker. Use utility scissors to cut the foam.

Step 3

Place the foam or chair seat on top of your desired fabric.
Use a pair of scissors to cut the fabric, tracing around the foam or seat. Cut the fabric approximately 1.5 inches wider on the sides to allow it to wrap around the edges.

Step 4

Center the foam on the seat board, place the fabric on top of the foam, then flip the board over.
The fabric should be underneath and the board should be on the top.
Fold the fabric inward, toward the board.
Make sure the outside of the fabric is facing you as you fold it inward.

Step 5

Staple the fabric to the seat, around the entire perimeter.
It helps to have a friend hold the fabric taut while you staple.
After everything is stapled, cut excess fabric (if necessary) using a pair of scissors.