Imagine walking into your living room and seeing a piece of furniture that looks like it was just purchased from the store. The fabric is vibrant, the cushions are plump, and the overall look is fresh and new. Even better, you know that this piece of furniture is unique to you, because it was reupholstered by a skilled professional who took the time to understand your needs and create something truly special.

Whether you're looking to repair a damaged piece of furniture, restore an antique to its former glory, or simply give your furniture a fresh new look, an upholsterer can help.

Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about upholsterers, including:

• What tasks they can help with
• Most common issues with upholstery
• The cost of hiring upholsterers
• How to hire a someone reputable
• What to consider when reupholstering
• How to source quotes 

What does an upholsterer do?

Upholsterers are skilled tradespeople who specialise in repairing, restoring and reupholstering furniture. They have a deep understanding of fabrics, textures and construction methods, which allows them to create beautiful and durable pieces that can last for many years.

They can take care of a wide range of tasks, including:

• Repairing damaged furniture, such as rips, tears, and burns
• Restoring old furniture to its original glory, by repairing any damage and refinishing the wood
• Covering furniture in new fabrics, to give it a fresh new look
• Creating custom pieces, such as headboards, ottomans, and benches

Read more: Changing the fabric of your lounge

Most common issues with upholstery repairs

Upholstery repairs may be required as a result of:

• Rips and tears
• Stains and dirt
• Faded colours or sun damage
• Loss of tacks
• Loose or sagging fabric

How much does it cost to hire an upholsterer?

The cost of hiring upholsterers depends on the size of the item, any special features or techniques you want, and the material you choose. However, for a straightforward piece of furniture like a chair, you can expect to pay between $80 and $250.

Prices vary significantly based on the furniture you are looking to upholster. See below for a rough breakdown of how much upholstery services can cost for different furniture types: 

• Retro armchair: $1,200
• Standard dining chair: $75
• High-back dining chair: $215
• Tub chair: $445
• Armchair: $885
• Deep-buttoned armchair: $1,060
• Outdoor cane setting: $2,160.

Read more: How much does upholstery cleaning cost?

How to hire an upholsterer

When hiring an upholsterer, it's important to choose a professional who understands your design needs and budget, and who has the skills and experience to bring your vision to life.

Here are a few questions to ask to gauge whether they are right for your job:

• What types of furniture do you specialise in?
• What is your process for working with clients to understand their design needs?
• Can you show me examples of your previous work?
• What are your rates and turnaround time?
• Do you offer a warranty on your work?

In addition to these questions, it's also important to ask about their experience with specific fabrics and materials. For example, if you're interested in using a high-end fabric, such as leather or velvet, you'll want to make sure that they have experience working with these materials. You should also ask about their experience with any special features or techniques that you're interested in, such as tufted upholstery or button-down cushions.

What to consider when reupholstering

When reupholstering furniture, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

The type of furniture

Different types of furniture require different techniques. For example, reupholstering a chair is different from a sofa. It's important to choose an expert who has experience with the type of furniture you need help with.

The condition of the furniture

If your furniture is in good condition, you may be able to get away with simply replacing the fabric. However, if your furniture is damaged or worn, you may need to have the cushions and foam replaced as well.

The style of your home

When choosing a fabric for your furniture, it's important to consider the style of your home. You want to choose a fabric that will complement your décor and create a cohesive look.

Getting quotes from upholsterers

At hipages, we recommend getting at least three quotes before making a decision on an upholsterer to hire. This will help you compare prices and choose the best option for your needs. 

When getting quotes, be sure to ask about:

• The cost of the reupholstery, including labour and materials
• Any additional fees, such as a call-out fee or travel fee
• The warranty on the reupholstery
• The timeline for the reupholstery.

When choosing, it's important to find someone who understands your design needs and budget, so you can be confident that you'll be happy with the results. After all, reupholstering furniture is a personal investment, and you want to make sure that the finished product is something you'll love for years to come.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.