By Jenny Smith 
What Is Reupholstering?
Reupholstering involves stripping your sofa down to its frame and replacing the fabric, padding, webbing, and sometimes even the springs. It’s not just a fabric swap—it’s a labor-intensive process that restores the piece inside and out. Because of this, prices can vary significantly depending on size, material, labor, and customization needs.
Average Cost to Reupholster a Sofa in the U.S.
By Size:
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Loveseat (2-seater): $600–$1,200
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Standard Sofa (3-seater): $1,000–$2,000
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Sectional Sofa: $1,800–$4,000+
By Fabric Type:
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Cotton, Polyester: $10–$45/yard
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Linen, Velvet: $50–$70/yard
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Genuine Leather or High-End Synthetics: $70–$150/yard
A typical sofa requires 12–25 yards of fabric, depending on its design.
Other Factors That Affect the Cost
Before deciding on reupholstery, consider whether you’re hiring a professional or attempting a DIY approach. While DIY may save money upfront, it requires tools, skills, and often leads to inconsistent results, especially with complex sofa structures. Professional services, though more expensive, ensure quality workmanship and longevity.
1. Labor and Workmanship
Skilled upholstery work typically ranges from $40 to $100 per hour. In metro areas like New York or San Francisco, rates may exceed $125 due to higher labor costs. More intricate designs with button tufting or nailhead trim can increase labor hours and final costs.
2. Frame Repairs
If your sofa needs structural repairs (like broken springs or cracked wood), you could pay an extra $100–$500.
3. Cushion Filling
Upgrading to high-density foam or feather-down cushions may add $100–$300.
4. Pickup and Delivery Fees
Depending on location, delivery may tack on an additional $50–$150.
When Reupholstering Is Worth It
Reupholstering can also appeal to eco-conscious homeowners. Instead of sending bulky furniture to landfills, restoring a well-built frame supports sustainable living while preserving craftsmanship. You might choose reupholstery if:
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Your sofa has a solid hardwood frame
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It has sentimental value or a unique design
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You want a custom look that fits your current aesthetic
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You’re aiming for eco-conscious furniture reuse
But if the frame is weak, mass-produced, or the total cost surpasses buying a high-quality new sofa—you may want to consider a replacement.
Explore Smarter Alternatives: Povison Sofas
Also, consider the long-term maintenance of your chosen upholstery fabric. While natural fibers like cotton and linen offer comfort and breathability, they may require more upkeep than synthetic blends or treated cowhide leather. If you’re looking for minimal-maintenance beauty and modern function, a new sofa might offer more value.
For some, reupholstering holds nostalgic or environmental value. But if your goal is convenience, consistency, and a long-lasting upgrade, it may make more sense to invest in a new, well-designed sofa—one that offers modern features and requires no wait.
Consider the Minimalist Modular Leather Sofa. With its deep seating, durable cowhide fabric, and modular flexibility, this sofa offers a tailored look without the custom-upholstery cost.
Or go ultra-cozy with the Deep Seat Sofa Set. It’s soft, supportive, and perfect for homes with pets or kids.
Povison Sofas: Designed for Everyday Living
At Povison, every piece is crafted for real life—from movie marathons to lazy Sundays. We’re a U.S.-based brand with a global manufacturing presence, producing in trusted facilities across China, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Mexico. This allows us to ensure consistent quality and accessible design.
As a brand known for quality and convenience, Povison sofas are ready to live in the moment they arrive—no assembly, no stress. Skip the reupholstery wait time and step into comfort right away.
The Smarter Way to Refresh Your Living Room
Choosing between reupholstery and replacement isn’t just about money—it’s about lifestyle. If time, convenience, and design consistency matter to you, buying a ready-to-live-in sofa might be the better path. Visit Povison to explore our curated selection of sofas. Whether you’re replacing a cherished piece or simply seeking something more practical, Povison’s designs are tailored to meet the everyday demands of modern living—stylish, sturdy, and truly ready to live in.
