reupholstering info needed

[idea888]

I have a chair which belonged to my grandparents - I doubt it was expensive when it was bought, but it's comfortable and a nice small size and of course it has sentimental value. I would like to get it reupholstered and I wondered if anyone has a rough idea how much I could expect to pay for this? It's a small armchair with wing back.

Also how much could I expect an upholsterer to do? I mean would they check that the frame is all still fixed/glued adequately, or is it just the fabric and stuffing they would replace?

Reupholstery is expensive - you would be better off contacting a few and speaking with them.

Thanks wowfudge. I don't mind if it costs up to what I'd pay for a new chair, as I need to either reupholster this or buy a new chair. There's only one upholsterer anywhere near me on a professional list I found online, so I was going to go and see them, but just want to know what sort of price would be realistic. I'm guessing around £300? Is that realistic?

I was quoted £320 plus fabric costs for a similar sounding chair. That was to include checking and strengthening joints etc (although they said if any major remedial work was needed to the frame, I'd be charged for it).

Some uphosterers hold courses/workshops where you can bring in a piece, strip, repair and reupholster under their tutelage. Which would work out cheaper, and a nice thing to do for a sentimental piece if you have the time?

Origamiwarrior - thanks, I did think about doing it myself but have had it for 3 or 4 years and not got round to it. Maybe I should check and see if there are any classes nearby. I do like DIY and craft but thought this might be a bit too ambitious, but maybe I could give it a go.

I had a Laura Ashley chair recovered for my daughter's room about a year ago. It was either £230 or £280, I can't remember which. I supplied the fabric, he collected and re-delivered. You'd need to speak to them about checking frame - am sure it's something they'd be able to do. It's beautiful, I love it and definitely better than a generic new one.

My guy charged me £200 (Victorian style armchair with buttoning) and I provided the fabric - that was just covering it though, not replacing any of the cushioning, mending the frame etc. Upholstering complex shapes - wingback chairs, those that have buttoning etc - is really hard to do well, I think you would be better off leaving it to a pro.

Thanks Lalalonglegs and namechangedtoday15. I've googled and found a couple more upholsterers nearby so I think I need to get quotes and see what the options are. I know I will love this chair if I have it done so I would rather do that than buy a new one, even if it's more cost effective, and I like the idea of supporting a local business and skilled people.

Did you find an upholsterer? My sister just got an old chair reupholstered and it is BEAUTIFUL I'll find out who did it if you still need a recommendation

Just adding my bit idea888 My parents gave me a sofa and chair, old Gplan and I had them recovered last year, cost about £3000 but the local guy was great, and I got a quote first, he replaced everything, stuffing, checked the joints, and now they look lovely. I'm not ashamed of them any more They date from 1956 and were last recovered in the 70's. Basically it's the same as just buying new, but if it's sentimental value it's worth it. Get quotes. A good idea too to choose exactly the material you want, to fit in with your room.

Be aware that mid century is very desirable now so if you ever get fed up with your g plan stuff, don't give it away!

Also stuff before 1988 could have the lethal foam inside so well worth doing anyway.