Cost to Reupholster a Couch – Simple Guide

If your sofa looks tired but you don’t want to buy a new one, reupholstering can be a good fix. Most people wonder how much it will cost and if it’s worth the money. In this guide we break down the biggest price drivers, give you realistic price ranges, and share tricks to keep the bill low.

What Affects the Price?

The first thing to realize is that the price isn’t a flat number. It changes with four main things: the fabric you pick, the size of the couch, the amount of labor needed, and any extra work like repairing the frame.

Fabric choice. Cheap cotton blends can run $10‑$20 per yard, while designer leathers or performance fabrics may cost $40‑$80 per yard. A typical three‑seat sofa needs about 10‑12 yards, so fabric alone can be $100‑$960.

Size and style. A small loveseat is cheaper than a large sectional. More complex shapes, tufted backs, or removable cushions add extra labor time, which pushes the price up.

Labor rates. Professional upholsterers charge by the hour or per piece. Hourly rates usually sit between $50‑$80. A straightforward reupholster can take 8‑12 hours, meaning labor costs of $400‑$960.

Additional repairs. If the springs are worn, the frame is wobbly, or the padding is flat, those fixes add $50‑$300 depending on what’s needed.

Putting it together, a basic reupholster of a three‑seat couch with a low‑cost fabric typically costs $300‑$600. Mid‑range options land in the $800‑$1,200 bracket. High‑end projects with premium leather and full repairs can exceed $2,000.

Saving Money on Reupholstery

Don’t assume you have to spend a fortune. Here are simple ways to trim the bill.

Buy fabric yourself. Upholsterers often add a markup on material. If you shop online or at a local fabric store and bring the fabric to the shop, you can save $50‑$150.

Choose a fabric with less waste. Fabrics that have a simple repeat pattern or are sold in standard widths reduce the amount you need to buy.

Do minor repairs yourself. Tightening loose screws, gluing small tears, or swapping out cheap foam cushions can be done with a screwdriver and some foam. This cuts out the extra labor charge.

Combine projects. If you have more than one piece that needs work, ask the upholsterer for a bulk discount. Two sofas reupholstered together often cost less per piece than doing them separately.

Consider DIY kits. For a very simple couch with removable cushions, you can buy a reupholster kit that includes fabric, batting, and basic tools. Expect to spend $150‑$300, plus your time.

Before you sign a contract, ask for a written estimate that lists fabric cost, labor hours, and any extra fees. Compare a couple of local upholsterers – prices can vary a lot even in the same town.

In the end, the decision comes down to how much you love the couch and your budget. If the couch is a solid piece and you find a fabric you like, reupholstering is often cheaper than buying a brand‑new sofa of the same quality. Use the tips above to keep the cost under control and give your living room a fresh look without breaking the bank.