Get matched with top upholsterers in Waterloo, NE

Doing your own upholstery work is possible, but it’s typically a better idea to leave the work to professionals. Without experience and the proper tools, it’s difficult to get a professionally finished appearance for your furniture, and many DIYers end up spending money on tools and materials only to hire a professional when they can’t get the fabric to look right. If you have reupholstery experience, feel free to give it a shot. However, if you’re not confident in your skill level or you’re working with antiques, it’s worth the money to hire a pro.

The average cost to reupholster a piece of furniture is around $720, with most projects falling in the $380 to $1,150 range. The final price can vary significantly based on several factors. These include the size and complexity of the furniture, the cost of the new fabric (which typically ranges from $50 to $70 per yard), and hourly labor rates (often $40 to $100 per hour). Additional factors that influence the price are the piece's current condition, its age, whether it needs other repairs, the number of pieces being reupholstered, and your geographic location.

The best way to test the quality of a leather couch is to put your hands on it. If the upholstery is soft and warm, that’s a good indication that the quality is higher. It should also smell like traditional leather. If it smells like chemicals, you’re probably dealing with low-grade leather.

It is generally worth repairing leather furniture rather than replacing it, as it is typically more affordable and the material tends to retain its value. A typical repair averages around $250, which is significantly less than the thousands of dollars a replacement could cost. Even a full reupholstering, which can cost up to $4,000, may still be more economical than buying new. With proper care, repaired leather furniture can last for many years, making the investment worthwhile. However, if the underlying structure or frame of the furniture is damaged or malfunctioning, replacement might be a better option. The quality of the leather and the furniture piece are also important factors. For a definitive answer, it is best to consult a leather repair professional to assess your specific situation.