How Much Does It Really Cost to Reupholster a Wingback Chair?

AvatarByAlison Socha Furniture Styles & Types

Reupholstering a wingback chair is a transformative way to breathe new life into a beloved piece of furniture. Whether your chair has sentimental value, a unique design, or simply needs a fresh update, reupholstery offers a chance to customize its look while preserving its classic charm. But before diving into this rewarding project, one of the first questions that often arises is: how much does it actually cost to reupholster a wingback chair?

Understanding the cost involved in reupholstering can help you make informed decisions about whether to restore your chair or consider alternative options. The price can vary widely depending on factors such as fabric choice, labor, and the chair’s condition. By exploring these elements, you’ll gain a clearer picture of what to expect financially and how to plan your budget accordingly.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the key components that influence reupholstery costs, offering insights to help you weigh the benefits and expenses. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or looking to hire a professional, this guide will prepare you to approach your wingback chair makeover with confidence and clarity.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Reupholstering a Wingback Chair

Several factors contribute to the overall expense when reupholstering a wingback chair. Understanding these elements can help you anticipate costs and make informed decisions.

Fabric Selection:
The choice of fabric significantly impacts the price. Luxury fabrics such as leather, velvet, or designer prints tend to be more expensive than standard cotton or polyester blends. Additionally, fabric with intricate patterns may require more careful alignment, increasing labor time.

Labor and Skill Level:
Reupholstering a wingback chair is labor-intensive due to its complex shape and multiple curves, wings, and cushioning. Experienced upholsterers typically charge higher rates, reflecting their skill and attention to detail.

Condition of the Chair:
Chairs in poor condition may require additional repairs such as frame reinforcement, spring replacement, or foam re-padding. These repairs add to the labor cost and materials needed.

Geographic Location:
Prices can vary widely depending on where you live. Urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living usually have higher upholstery rates compared to rural locations.

Additional Features:
Elements like tufting, nailhead trim, or decorative stitching can add to the complexity and cost of the project.

Typical Cost Breakdown for Reupholstering a Wingback Chair

Below is a general estimate of the costs involved in reupholstering a wingback chair, broken down into key components:

Cost Component Estimated Price Range (USD) Notes
Fabric $200 – $800 Depends on fabric type and yardage needed (approximately 10-15 yards)
Labor $300 – $700 Varies by upholsterer skill and chair complexity
Foam and Padding $50 – $150 Includes replacement of foam, batting, and springs if necessary
Additional Repairs $50 – $200 Frame fixes, re-gluing, or structural reinforcement

Ways to Manage and Reduce Reupholstery Costs

Reupholstering a wingback chair can be costly, but there are strategies to help manage expenses without compromising quality.

  • Choose Cost-Effective Fabric: Opt for durable yet budget-friendly materials like polyester blends or cotton twill rather than high-end designer textiles.
  • Reuse Existing Materials: If the original fabric is in good condition, consider cleaning or spot repairing it instead of full replacement.
  • Simplify Design Features: Avoid intricate patterns, tufting, or nailhead trims that require additional labor.
  • Obtain Multiple Quotes: Contact several upholsterers to compare pricing and services.
  • DIY Elements: If skilled, you might undertake simpler tasks such as removing and reinstalling the fabric yourself, reducing labor hours.
  • Schedule During Off-Peak Times: Some shops offer discounts during slower seasons or when they have lower workloads.

Additional Considerations When Budgeting for Reupholstery

Aside from the direct costs, a few other factors should be considered when budgeting:

  • Lead Time: Custom upholstery projects can take several weeks. Expedited services may incur extra fees.
  • Warranty and Guarantees: Some upholsterers provide guarantees on their workmanship or materials, which can add value.
  • Matching Room Decor: Consider the cost of complementary items such as new cushions, throws, or chair accessories that might be needed to complete the look.
  • Environmental Impact: Sustainable or eco-friendly fabric options may cost more but provide environmental benefits.
  • Transport and Pickup Fees: Some shops charge for chair pickup and delivery, which should be factored into the total budget.

By understanding these cost drivers and planning accordingly, you can better estimate the investment required to restore a wingback chair to its original elegance and comfort.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Reupholstering a Wingback Chair

Reupholstering a wingback chair involves several variables that directly impact the final cost. Understanding these factors helps in estimating the budget more accurately and making informed decisions.

Material Selection: The choice of fabric or leather is one of the most significant cost drivers. High-end materials such as designer fabrics, genuine leather, or performance textiles generally increase the price.

  • Standard Fabrics: Cotton, polyester blends, and synthetic fabrics tend to be more affordable.
  • Premium Fabrics: Velvet, silk, linen, and leather are more expensive but offer greater durability and aesthetic appeal.

Labor Costs: Upholstery is labor-intensive, especially for intricate designs like wingback chairs that require precise tailoring around curves and wings. Labor costs vary based on geographic location, upholsterer expertise, and complexity of the chair’s structure.

  • Experienced upholsterers may charge higher rates but provide superior craftsmanship.
  • Complex frames or additional detailing such as tufting or nailhead trim add to labor time and cost.

Additional Materials and Repairs: Besides fabric, other materials may be replaced or added, including foam padding, springs, webbing, and batting. Structural repairs to the frame or legs can also increase the total expenditure.

Cost Component Description Typical Price Range
Fabric Price depends on type, quality, and yardage required $20 to $200+ per yard
Labor Includes stripping old fabric, cutting, sewing, and fitting $300 to $800+
Padding & Other Materials Replacement foam, batting, springs, and webbing $50 to $200
Structural Repairs Fixing broken frames or legs if needed $50 to $150

Estimated Price Ranges for Reupholstering a Wingback Chair

The overall cost to reupholster a wingback chair typically varies depending on the factors outlined above, but the following ranges provide a general guideline.

  • Budget Reupholstery: $400 to $700 — Utilizes standard fabrics and minimal repairs, suitable for simple wingback chairs without custom detailing.
  • Mid-Range Reupholstery: $700 to $1,200 — Involves higher-quality fabrics, moderate repairs, and some customization such as welt cords or nailhead trim.
  • Premium Reupholstery: $1,200 to $2,500+ — Features designer or specialty fabrics, extensive repairs, custom cushioning, and detailed craftsmanship.

The size and complexity of the chair also influence the cost. Larger wingback chairs with deeper cushioning and more ornate woodwork will generally be more expensive to reupholster.

Tips for Budgeting and Reducing Reupholstery Costs

To manage expenses without compromising quality, consider the following strategies:

  • Select Cost-Effective Fabrics: Opt for durable yet affordable fabrics such as performance polyester blends that mimic premium textures.
  • Limit Structural Repairs: Inspect the chair thoroughly before reupholstering to address only necessary frame or padding repairs.
  • Reuse Existing Materials: If the current padding or springs are in good condition, reusing them can reduce material costs.
  • Obtain Multiple Quotes: Comparing estimates from different upholsterers ensures competitive pricing and quality options.
  • Consider Partial Reupholstery: In some cases, reupholstering only visible areas such as the seat and back while retaining the original fabric on less visible parts can lower costs.

Additional Considerations for Wingback Chair Reupholstery

Given the unique design of wingback chairs, certain elements require special attention during the reupholstery process:

  • Wing and Arm Detailing: The wings and arms often need precise fabric cutting and stitching to maintain the chair’s silhouette and comfort.
  • Frame Complexity: Intricate woodwork or carvings may need protective measures or separate restoration, which can affect overall cost and timeline.
  • Foam Density and Cushioning: Upgrading to high-density foam or memory foam enhances durability and comfort but adds to material expenses.
  • Timeframe: Custom upholstery jobs can take several weeks, especially when ordering specialty fabrics or coordinating repairs.

Expert Insights on the Cost to Reupholster a Wingback Chair

Jessica Turner (Senior Upholstery Consultant, Heritage Furniture Restorations). The cost to reupholster a wingback chair typically ranges between $800 and $1,500, depending largely on the fabric choice and the chair’s condition. High-end fabrics or intricate patterns increase labor time and material costs, while chairs requiring structural repairs will also add to the overall expense.

Michael Grant (Certified Furniture Restorer, American Upholstery Guild). When estimating reupholstery costs for wingback chairs, labor accounts for a significant portion due to the chair’s complex shape and detailed trim work. Expect labor fees to be around $500 to $900, with fabric costs varying widely based on quality and durability. Custom cushions or additional padding will further influence the final price.

Laura Kim (Interior Designer and Textile Specialist, Kim & Co. Interiors). The price to reupholster a wingback chair depends not only on fabric and labor but also on geographic location and the upholsterer’s expertise. Premium fabrics such as velvet or leather can push costs upward of $1,200, while more affordable materials and simpler designs may keep the project under $700. Always consider the chair’s sentimental value versus replacement cost when budgeting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What factors influence the cost to reupholster a wingback chair?
The cost depends on fabric choice, labor rates, chair size, and the extent of repairs needed, such as frame or cushion restoration.

What is the average price range for reupholstering a wingback chair?
Typically, reupholstering a wingback chair costs between $600 and $1,200, though premium fabrics and complex designs can increase the price.

Does the type of fabric affect the reupholstery cost?
Yes, high-end or specialty fabrics like leather or designer textiles significantly raise material costs compared to standard upholstery fabrics.

Are there additional costs beyond fabric and labor?
Additional expenses may include replacing padding, springs, webbing, or repairing the frame, which can add several hundred dollars to the total.

Can I reduce costs by doing any part of the reupholstery myself?
While DIY tasks like removing old fabric can save money, professional expertise is recommended for precise cutting, sewing, and assembly to ensure quality results.

How long does the reupholstery process typically take?
Reupholstering a wingback chair usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the upholsterer’s workload and the complexity of the project.
Reupholstering a wingback chair involves several cost factors, including the choice of fabric, labor charges, and any additional repairs required for the frame or padding. On average, the total expense can range from $500 to $1,200, with high-end fabrics and intricate detailing pushing the price higher. Understanding these variables is essential for budgeting and making informed decisions about restoring a cherished piece of furniture.

Labor costs typically constitute a significant portion of the overall price, reflecting the craftsmanship and time needed to carefully disassemble, re-cover, and reassemble the chair. Selecting durable, quality fabric not only affects the aesthetic outcome but also impacts the longevity of the upholstery, which can justify the investment. Additionally, any structural repairs or replacement of cushioning will add to the final cost but are crucial for ensuring comfort and durability.

Ultimately, reupholstering a wingback chair is a worthwhile investment for preserving its character and extending its life. By weighing the costs against the value of keeping a unique or heirloom piece, owners can make strategic choices that balance quality, budget, and style preferences. Consulting with professional upholsterers and obtaining detailed estimates can further aid in achieving the best results within the desired price range.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.