The Upholstery Forum

Hello all, I am reupholstering this chair which I have stripped back and replaced the springs and stuffing etc and am now stuck on how to do the cover. I do not know whether I should be sewing the cover using the old pieces as a template/pattern or I should get the shape right by pinning the cuts and piping in place around the chair. I hope this makes sense .....

If the material seam really stretched out and not a good pattern then I would do it by pinning and marking or making your own patterns.
If the cover seems good just cut it apart and use it for a pattern.

Thank you so much John, that is a great help. I have been agonising over it. Another really quick one if you don't mind. You can see from my photo that I have covered the chair with cotton batting (similar to the original). I think I should be attaching it to the springs with twine but my needle won't go through the layers. Should I just get a thinner needle or am I doing something wrong doing this?

I agree with John here. The original cover was made to fit and it looks in good shape. Now if you have a lot of time and the desire to put more $ into the project and want practice go ahead and make a pattern. I would also try to match the same type of fabric to what you are taking off.

That's great, thanks. The original cover is in fine shape so I will do that. My first go at piping too. Just need to decide on the fabric and I will take your advice.

I'm not an expert on furniture but I dont think you need to attach the batting with twine. I always just use cheep spray can glue to attach it.

Thanks John. The original batting was sewn to the springs but I don't think it is necessary either. It is great to have a forum to ask questions and for them to be answered too!!

Happy to help!!