How to Reupholster a Recliner with Wooden Arms

Do you need new furniture for your living room? If so, then this post is perfect for you. We will discuss how to reupholster a recliner with wooden arms and give some tips on how to choose the right fabric. You’ll also learn about how to take care of it afterward.

 

How to Reupholster a Recliner with Wooden Arms

How To Reupholster A Lazy Boy Recliner

Do you have a Lazy Boy recliner that has seen better days? With this project, it will look like new again.

You can reupholster the chair with an inexpensive fabric and save yourself some money! If you need to get rid of odors or stains on your furniture, there are some great tips in this post as well!

Step 1. Before you start, make sure that the chair is clean. Vacuum it and wipe off any dirt or grime with a damp rag.

Step 2. Remove all of the old fabric by cutting along each side seam until there’s nothing left but the frame. You can also remove the foam padding to save time later on if your new fabric is the same color.

Step 3. To make sure that your chair won’t sink, you need to put some plywood or a piece of MDF on top of the frame and secure it in place with wood screws (at least three). You can also use old shelving boards too! Cut each board so they are at least three inches wider than the frame of your chair.

Step 4. Soak up any excess glue with a damp cloth or brush, then use painter’s tape to secure your fabric in place on top of the wood.

Step 5. Use a staple gun to attach two pieces of foam padding over each area where you put down plywood or MDF boards and staple them to the back of your fabric.

Step 6. Flip over and secure the other side with staples, then use a staple gun to attach any loose seams.

Step 7. If you’re reupholstering an old chair that has arms on it (or if you just want cushions for armrests), sew some rope or webbing loops on each side and use fabric ties to tie them onto the arm.

Step 8. Finally, take a can of paint that matches what was there before (or go with something new!) and paint over any exposed wood or staples so they blend in perfectly. Sit back on your newly upholstered chair!

 

Steps on Reupholstering a Recliner With Wooden Hand Arms

Step One: Remove the padding and old fabric from the recliner

Step Two: Cut out new pieces of upholstery to fit in place

Step Three: Sew together seams on the backside or use staples. Add any extra details like buttons, if desired

Step Four: Stuff with polyester fiberfill for added support

 

Tips on How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Reupholstered Chair

#1. Consider how much wear and tear you’ll put the fabric through. If it’s going to be used a lot, like in an office chair, then do not choose delicate fabrics

#2. Soft textures are typically better than rough ones because they feel nicer to the touch

#3. Always purchase extra fabric so you can have a backup in case of any accidents. It’s also helpful for when you need to repair damage from use or age since it will take less time and effort if some already exist

 

How to Prevent Damage on a Wooden Recliner Arm

Step 1. Clean your arm periodically with a soft, lint-free cloth and furniture polish

Step 2. If necessary, apply a wood preservative to prevent cracking or splitting of the surface. There are many types available so it’s best to consult an expert for specifics on which one is right for you

Step 3. Never use oil or other chemicals on the arm. This can make it slippery and even result in a dangerous fall

 

How to Paint Your Arm Yourself

Step 1. Purchase high quality, acrylic paint that is specially formulated for wood surfaces or contact your furniture manufacturer for recommendations

Step 2. Tape off any areas you don’t want to be painted (such as the arm’s joints) with masking or other tape and paper

Step 3. Apply the paint in thin, even strokes. Make sure you smooth out any rough edges as you go along to get a professional finish

Step 4. Allow your painted piece of furniture to dry overnight before removing all the tape

Step 5. After 24 hours have passed, apply two coats of furniture lacquer or wax to the arm, using a soft cloth

Step 6. Allow it to dry for 24 hours before applying another coat. Allow 48 hours after the final coat has been applied before changing upholstery fabric and stuffing

 

How to Fix a Recliner that Won’t Recline

If you have a recliner that won’t recline, there are several possible reasons why.

Step 1. Check the positions of the handles on either side. If they’re in an upright position and not horizontal then your problem is likely solved

Step 2. Pull up on one handle until it moves horizontally across the furniture arm and try to recline the chair.

Step 3. If it still won’t recline, your problem is likely a broken or disconnected wire that’s attached to the footrest

Step 4. Your issue may also be as simple as needing new nylon rollers for the arm of your furniture

Step 5. If you’re still unsure how to fix this problem on your own, contact a professional to help with the project.