Restoring a wing back chair requires careful removal of the decorative trim and layers of fabric to reveal the original structure. Learning how to reupholster wing back chair is a rewarding DIY project that saves money and gives old furniture new life. You don’t need professional experience, just patience and basic tools.
This guide walks you through every step, from stripping old fabric to attaching the final trim. You’ll end up with a chair that looks custom-made.
How To Reupholster Wing Back Chair
Before you start, gather your supplies. You need a staple remover, screwdrivers, pliers, new fabric, foam padding, batting, and a heavy-duty staple gun. Also get decorative trim and spray adhesive.
Tools And Materials You Need
- Staple remover or claw tool
- Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
- Needle-nose pliers
- Heavy-duty staple gun with 1/4-inch staples
- New upholstery fabric (about 4-5 yards)
- 2-inch thick foam for seat cushion
- Polyester batting
- Spray adhesive
- Decorative gimp or nailhead trim
- Muslin for backing
Step 1: Remove Old Fabric And Trim
Start by taking off the decorative trim. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry up nailheads or cut the gimp stitching. Pull the old staples with your remover tool.
Work from the bottom of the chair upward. Remove the dust cover first, then the seat cushion, then the arms and wings. Label each piece of fabric as you remove it—this helps you cut new pieces later.
Keep the old fabric pieces intact if possible. They serve as patterns for cutting your new material.
Step 2: Strip Down To The Frame
Once the fabric is off, remove the old foam and batting. Check the wooden frame for cracks or loose joints. Tighten any screws or add wood glue where needed.
Inspect the springs. If any are broken or sagging, replace them with new ones from a hardware store. This is also a good time to clean dust and debris from inside the chair.
Step 3: Replace Padding And Batting
Cut new foam to match the seat shape. Use spray adhesive to attach it to the seat base. For the wings and arms, apply fresh batting over the existing padding. Layer it thick enough to create a soft, rounded shape.
Secure the batting with a few staples on the underside. Dont pull it too tight—batting needs some loft for comfort.
Step 4: Cut And Attach New Fabric
Lay your old fabric pieces on the new material. Trace around them with a fabric marker, adding 2 inches of extra on all sides for stapling. Cut carefully with sharp scissors.
Start with the back panel. Position the fabric over the chair back, smooth it down, and staple along the bottom edge. Work your way up the sides, pulling the fabric taut but not distorting the pattern.
For the wings, fold the fabric around the curves. Make small pleats at the corners to avoid bunching. Staple every inch for a secure hold.
Step 5: Reupholster The Seat And Arms
The seat cushion is the most visible part. Center the fabric over the cushion, then staple the front edge first. Pull the fabric to the back and staple. Do the sides last, folding corners neatly like a gift box.
For the arms, wrap fabric around the padded area. Staple underneath the armrest where it wont be seen. Trim excess fabric close to the staples.
Step 6: Attach Decorative Trim
Trim hides the staple lines and gives a finished look. Use nailhead trim for a classic style or gimp for a softer edge. Start at a back corner and work your way around.
Tap nailheads gently with a hammer. For gimp, use fabric glue or small staples. Overlap the ends slightly to avoid gaps.
Step 7: Reinstall The Dust Cover
Cut a piece of muslin to fit the bottom of the chair. Staple it in place, covering all the raw edges. This protects the underside and keeps dust out.
Flip the chair upright and inspect your work. Smooth out any wrinkles by adjusting staples. Add extra staples where needed.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Using too little fabric—always add extra for mistakes
- Stapling too close to the edge, causing fabric to tear
- Ignoring frame damage before reupholstering
- Pulling fabric unevenly, which creates wrinkles
- Skipping the batting layer, making the chair feel hard
Tips For A Professional Finish
Take photos during disassembly. They help you remember how pieces fit together. Work in good lighting so you see every detail.
Use a fabric steamer to remove wrinkles after stapling. Let the chair sit for 24 hours before use so the fabric settles.
If your chair has intricate curves, use a flexible measuring tape to get accurate dimensions. Dont rush the cutting step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Reupholster A Wing Back Chair Without Removing The Old Fabric?
Its not recomended. Old fabric hides damage and adds bulk. Removing it lets you see the frame and springs clearly.
How Long Does It Take To Reupholster A Wing Back Chair?
Plan for 8 to 12 hours for a first-time project. Experienced upholsterers can finish in 4 to 6 hours.
What Fabric Is Best For A Wing Back Chair?
Medium-weight fabrics like cotton, linen, or polyester blends work well. Avoid stretchy knits—they sag over time.
Do I Need Special Tools For This Project?
A staple gun is essential. A webbing stretcher helps if you replace the seat springs. Most other tools are common household items.
Can I Reuse The Old Foam Padding?
Only if its in good condition. Old foam often crumbles or loses shape. New foam gives better support and comfort.
Reupholstering a wing back chair takes effort, but the result is a custom piece that fits your style. You save money and learn a valuable skill. Start with a simple fabric pattern to make alignment easier. With practice, you can tackle more complex designs.
Remember to work slowly and check your progress often. Each staple brings you closer to a beautiful, refreshed chair. Enjoy the process and the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands.
