Reupholster a drop-in chair seat

Before you start

Turn the chair over on a protected surface and confirm that the seat comes away as a single piece. This method keeps the existing sound base and padding. Check that the frame, seat board and fixing holes are firm before buying fabric. Photograph how the existing fabric folds at each corner.

Tools and materials

• Upholstery fabric
• Staple remover and stapler
• Suitable short staples
• Scissors and screwdriver

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Remove the seat and old cover

   Label the front edge on the underside and set the mounting screws aside. Lift the staples with a remover and take off the old cover. Keep it in one piece to use as a template. Check the seat board and padding before continuing.

2. 2

   Align and cut the new cover

   Lay the fabric face down and centre the old cover over it. Check that the pattern runs straight across the front. Leave enough wrap at each edge to reach the staple line with the fabric held snug.

3. 3

   Staple from the centre out

   Staple the middle of the front edge first, then the back. Repeat on the two sides. Work out from each centre towards the corners, alternating sides and checking the face often to keep the fabric even.

4. 4

   Fold the corners and clear the fixings

   Fold each corner in the same direction and check the visible folds before stapling. Trim bulky excess a little at a time. Keep fabric and staples clear of the mounting holes and any edges that sit in the chair frame.

5. 5

   Refit the seat

   Trim surplus fabric clear of the mounting holes. Reattach the seat with its original fixings and check it cannot shift.

Check the result

Set the chair on a level floor and press the seat near each corner. It should stay firmly attached without creaking or lifting. Check the fabric for loose staples, sharp points or folds that interfere with the chair frame.