When Reupholstery Makes Sense: Heaton and Co's Guide to Making the Right Choice
As an interior designer, I'm often asked whether it's better to reupholster a beloved piece of furniture or simply buy something new. The answer depends on several factors—cost, time, quality, and emotional attachment. Here's how to think it through before making the decision.
A floral chair and ottoman, one of several pieces we reupholstered for our recent "Today's Traditional" project, gets a complete transformation with elegant linen upholstery and tailored skirting.
Understanding the Costs
Reupholstery can be an investment, and prices vary widely depending on where you live, the complexity of the piece, and the materials you choose.
Some of the main cost factors include:
Labor – Skilled upholsterers charge based on the size and complexity of the piece, as well as the quality of work.
Fabric – Prices range dramatically, from budget-friendly options to premium designer textiles. The amount you'll need depends on the size of the furniture, and custom patterns or specialty materials can increase the total.
Piece Type – A simple dining chair is far less expensive to reupholster than a sectional sofa or tufted armchair.
Because of these variables, it's always best to get a few quotes before deciding—especially if you're weighing reupholstery against buying new.
A basic wooden stool gets a professional upholstery makeover with custom fabric as part of our "Cool and Colorful in San Francisco" project, transforming it from simple to sophisticated.
Timeline Considerations
Unlike ordering something online, reupholstery is a hands-on, multi-step process—stripping old fabric, repairing any structural issues, cutting and sewing new fabric, and securing it all to the frame. Depending on your upholsterer's schedule and the complexity of the work, expect the process to take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a few months.
When Reupholstery Makes Financial Sense
The "50% Rule"
A common guideline is that if reupholstery costs approach or exceed half the cost of buying something new, replacement might make more sense. However, there are important exceptions—especially for well-made or sentimental pieces.
Quality Indicators
Reupholstery is often worth it if:
The piece has solid construction and is heavy for its size.
The frame is made of hardwood and is in good condition.
It's a vintage or custom-made piece that would be expensive to replace with similar quality today.
When to Skip Reupholstery
If a piece was inexpensive to begin with, poorly made, or structurally damaged, it's often more cost-effective to replace it. Reupholstery can't turn "fast furniture" into heirloom quality—it simply gives it a new look.
Beyond the Numbers: Emotional & Design Value
Sentimental Attachment
If a piece has been in your family for years or has special meaning, the emotional value may outweigh the financial cost.
Customization
Reupholstering lets you choose the exact fabric, color, and details you want—something you might not get when buying new without paying a premium.
Sustainability
Giving new life to an existing piece keeps it out of landfills and reduces the demand for new resources—a win for the planet. This sustainable approach aligns with the growing circular economy movement, where platforms like Chairish have kept over 1,050,575 gently loved items in circulation since their founding, with 85% of their inventory being vintage pieces.
The same dining chairs get a bold transformation with rich navy leather upholstery as part of our "City Chic in San Francisco" project, creating a dramatic and contemporary look that elevates the entire space.
Smart Shopping for Reupholstery Candidates
If you're buying a piece specifically to reupholster, look for:
A sturdy frame with no wobbling.
Quality materials and construction.
A reputable brand or maker known for craftsmanship.
When shopping for vintage pieces that might be perfect reupholstery candidates, consider browsing curated marketplaces like Chairish or 1stDibs. Chairish's expert curators screen every item to ensure exceptional quality, and their platform is particularly great for finding unique pieces to reupholster—connecting over 12,000 small businesses, practicing artists and makers with design lovers worldwide. 1stDibs, with over 25 years of experience capturing the magic of the Paris flea market, connects seekers of the most beautiful things on earth with highly coveted sellers specializing in vintage, antique and contemporary furniture. Both platforms make it easier to discover those one-of-a-kind, well-built vintage gems that are worth the reupholstery investment.
Ways to Save
Select simpler fabrics without complex patterns or tufting to reduce material and labor costs.
Reupholster multiple pieces at once to take advantage of possible volume discounts.
Handle your own pickup and delivery if possible to avoid transport fees.
The Bottom Line
The decision to reupholster is part practical, part personal. If the piece is well-built, fits your space perfectly, or holds sentimental value, it can be well worth the investment—especially if you want something uniquely yours. But if it's structurally unsound, low quality, or the cost rivals replacing it, new might be the smarter choice.
In the end, the right answer is the one that balances your budget, your design vision, and your values. A beautifully reupholstered piece can become a cherished focal point in your home for years to come.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
At Heaton and Co, we're always happy to assist with reupholstery projects and help you make the best decision for your home and budget. Whether you're weighing the pros and cons of reupholstering a beloved piece or looking for guidance on finding the perfect vintage candidate, our team brings years of experience to every project.
Ready to get started? Fill out our inquiry form today and let's discuss how we can bring new life to your furniture and create something truly special for your space.
