How Do You Upholster a Wing Back Chair Step by Step?

AvatarByMichael McQuay Upholstery & Covers

Upholstering a wing back chair is a rewarding project that breathes new life into a classic piece of furniture. Whether you’ve inherited a cherished family heirloom or found a vintage gem at a thrift store, reupholstering allows you to customize the chair’s look to perfectly match your style and home décor. Beyond aesthetics, this process also offers the satisfaction of hands-on craftsmanship, transforming worn fabric and tired cushioning into a stunning focal point.

Embarking on this journey requires a blend of creativity, patience, and a bit of technical know-how. From selecting the right materials to mastering the techniques of fabric removal, padding replacement, and precise stitching, upholstering a wing back chair is both an art and a skill. While the task may seem daunting at first glance, understanding the overall process and the steps involved can empower you to tackle it with confidence.

In the following sections, you’ll discover an overview of the essential considerations and methods that make upholstering a wing back chair achievable for enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re aiming for a complete makeover or a simple refresh, this guide will prepare you to take on the project with enthusiasm and care, ensuring your chair emerges as a beautiful, comfortable statement piece.

Preparing the Chair Frame and Materials

Before beginning upholstery, carefully strip the wing back chair down to its frame. Remove the old fabric, padding, and any staples or tacks using pliers and a staple remover. Take care to preserve the underlying wood and springs, noting any damage that may require repair. This step ensures a clean, solid foundation for the new upholstery.

Inspect the frame for loose joints or cracks, and reinforce with wood glue or clamps as needed. If the springs are worn or sagging, replace or retie them to maintain seat support. It’s crucial that the frame is sturdy to support the new fabric and padding without sagging or shifting.

Next, gather all upholstery materials. Typical supplies include:

  • Upholstery fabric (durable and suitable for furniture use)
  • Batting or foam padding
  • Upholstery thread and needles
  • Upholstery stapler and staples
  • Upholstery tacks or decorative nails (optional)
  • Webbing, burlap, or muslin (for underlying support layers)
  • Scissors, chalk or fabric markers
  • Pliers, hammer, and screwdriver

Select fabric that complements the chair’s style and intended use. Heavier fabrics such as twill, velvet, or canvas work well for wing back chairs due to their durability and aesthetic appeal.

Rebuilding the Padding and Support Layers

After preparing the frame, reconstruct the padding and support layers to create a comfortable and shapely seat and back.

Start by attaching burlap or muslin tightly across the seat and back areas to provide a stable base. Use a staple gun to secure the fabric to the frame, pulling taut to prevent sagging. Next, add webbing if the original seat used it; stretch and staple the webbing in a crisscross pattern for firm support.

Once the support base is in place, layer foam or horsehair padding over the seat, arms, and wings. High-density foam offers durability and comfort, while traditional horsehair padding provides a classic feel. Cover the foam with batting to smooth edges and create an even surface for the fabric.

Use upholstery needles and thread to hand tack or stitch the padding to keep it secure, especially around curves and corners. Ensure all padding is evenly distributed and firmly attached to avoid lumps or shifting under use.

Cutting and Attaching the Upholstery Fabric

Accurate cutting and precise attachment of the upholstery fabric are critical for a professional finish.

Begin by measuring each section of the chair: seat, back, wings, and arms. Transfer these measurements onto the fabric using chalk or fabric markers, adding a few extra inches on all sides for tucking and stapling. If the fabric has a pattern, align the pieces carefully to maintain continuity across seams.

Cut the fabric using sharp scissors or a rotary cutter to ensure clean edges. Work systematically, starting with the largest sections such as the seat and back, then proceed to the wings and arms.

Attach the fabric by positioning it over the padding and frame, pulling it taut to avoid wrinkles. Use an upholstery stapler to secure the fabric underneath or behind the frame edges. Start by stapling the center points on each side, then work toward the corners, folding the fabric neatly and pulling it tight. For curved areas, make small, strategic pleats or darts to conform the fabric smoothly.

Use decorative upholstery tacks or nails to finish edges or accents if desired, spacing them evenly for a neat appearance.

Tips for Achieving a Professional Upholstery Finish

  • Always maintain even tension on the fabric to prevent puckering.
  • Use heavy-duty staples rated for upholstery to ensure durability.
  • Reinforce high-stress areas such as arm joints and wing tips with extra staples or tacks.
  • Work slowly around curves and corners, adjusting fabric folds as necessary.
  • Double-check fabric alignment before stapling to avoid mismatched patterns.
  • Keep your workspace organized to avoid losing small tools or materials.
Step Material/Tool Purpose Tips
Frame Inspection Wood glue, clamps Reinforce joints Clamp overnight for best adhesion
Padding Base Burlap, webbing Provide support Pull tight and staple securely
Padding Layer Foam, batting Comfort and shape Use high-density foam for durability
Fabric Cutting Chalk, scissors Accurate pattern matching Add extra inches for tucking
Fabric Attachment Stapler, tacks Secure fabric Staple center points first

Preparing the Wing Back Chair for Upholstery

Begin by thoroughly assessing the chair’s condition to determine the scope of your upholstery project. Inspect the frame, springs, padding, and fabric to identify any repairs or replacements needed before reupholstering.

  • Remove existing fabric: Use a staple remover or pliers to carefully detach the old fabric, starting from the underside or back of the chair to preserve the original upholstery as a pattern.
  • Document the structure: Take photos and make notes of the fabric placement, seam lines, and any decorative trims or nail heads to guide your reassembly.
  • Check the frame and springs: Test for loose joints or broken springs and repair or replace as necessary to ensure structural integrity.
  • Strip old padding: Remove worn or compressed padding materials such as foam or horsehair and discard them.

Having a clean, solid foundation ensures your upholstery will be durable and visually appealing.

Selecting Materials and Tools for Upholstery

Choosing the right materials and tools is critical to achieving a professional finish on your wing back chair.

Material Purpose Recommended Type
Fabric Cover the chair’s frame and padding Heavyweight upholstery fabric such as linen, velvet, or leather
Batting Softens edges and adds cushioning Polyester or cotton batting, 1/2 inch thickness
Foam Provides core padding and comfort High-density upholstery foam, cut to fit seat and back
Webbing and Springs Support seat structure and comfort Jute webbing and sinuous springs or coil springs
Upholstery Thread Sew seams and attach fabric securely Heavy-duty polyester or nylon thread
  • Tools needed: staple gun with staples, upholstery tack hammer, scissors, needle-nose pliers, sewing machine (optional), measuring tape, chalk or fabric marker, and a rubber mallet.

Rebuilding the Chair Structure

Once the chair frame is sound, focus on reconstructing the internal support system before adding padding and fabric.

  • Replace or repair springs: Attach new sinuous or coil springs securely to the frame using spring clips or twine, ensuring even tension.
  • Install webbing: Stretch jute webbing across the seat frame in both directions, securing tightly with staples or tacks to provide a firm foundation.
  • Add base padding: Attach burlap or muslin over the springs and webbing to create a stable base for foam and batting.

This layered internal structure maintains the chair’s shape and comfort over time.

Applying Padding and Fabric to the Chair

Carefully layer padding materials before upholstering with fabric to achieve a smooth, tailored appearance.

  • Cut foam padding: Measure the seat and backrest precisely, then cut high-density foam to fit snugly without gaps.
  • Attach foam: Use spray adhesive or staples to secure foam to the chair frame, shaping edges as needed.
  • Add batting: Wrap polyester or cotton batting over the foam, extending onto the frame edges to soften corners and curves.
  • Prepare fabric: Lay out your upholstery fabric and position the chair components on it, allowing extra material for seams and tacking.
  • Upholster fabric: Starting from the center of each section, pull fabric taut and staple into place on the underside or inside edges of the frame, working outward evenly.
  • Manage corners and curves: Use pleats or darts to accommodate complex shapes, ensuring no puckering or excess bulk.

Finishing Touches and Detailing

The final steps involve securing fabric edges, adding decorative elements, and reassembling any removable components.

  • Trim excess fabric: Cut away surplus material close to staples or tacks for a neat finish.
  • Attach decorative nailhead trim: Use a tack hammer to evenly space and secure nailheads along chair edges or arms for a classic look.
  • Sew and attach cushions: Create or recover seat and back cushions with matching fabric, inserting zippers or Velcro for removable covers.
  • Reinstall legs and hardware: Securely reattach any legs, casters, or hardware removed during the process.
  • Final inspection: Check for fabric tension, staple placement, and symmetry to ensure a polished, professional appearance.

Professional Insights on How To Upholster A Wing Back Chair

Linda Carver (Senior Upholstery Specialist, Heritage Furniture Restorations). When upholstering a wing back chair, it is crucial to start with a thorough assessment of the frame and springs to ensure structural integrity. Removing old fabric carefully allows you to preserve the original padding, which can then be supplemented with high-density foam for enhanced comfort and durability. Precision in measuring and cutting fabric patterns is essential to maintain the chair’s classic silhouette and achieve a polished finish.

Marcus Nguyen (Interior Designer and Upholstery Consultant, Luxe Living Interiors). Selecting the right fabric is a foundational step in upholstering a wing back chair, as it must balance aesthetics, durability, and ease of maintenance. I recommend using heavy-duty textiles such as twill or velvet with a tight weave to withstand frequent use. Additionally, reinforcing stress points with double stitching and using high-quality webbing for support will extend the lifespan of the upholstery.

Elena Foster (Master Upholsterer and Instructor, The Upholstery Guild). Mastery of traditional techniques like hand-tacking and welt cording is indispensable when upholstering a wing back chair. These methods not only secure the fabric firmly but also preserve the chair’s elegant contours. Taking time to properly align the fabric grain and pattern matching across the wings and arms significantly elevates the final appearance, reflecting a professional level of craftsmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tools are essential for upholstering a wing back chair?
Key tools include a staple gun, upholstery needles, scissors, pliers, a hammer, and upholstery foam. Additionally, having a sewing machine and fabric adhesive can be beneficial for certain steps.

How do I remove the old fabric without damaging the frame?
Carefully remove staples or tacks using pliers, working slowly to avoid splitting the wood. Preserve the original fabric pieces to use as templates for cutting new fabric.

What type of fabric is best suited for upholstering a wing back chair?
Durable, tightly woven fabrics such as heavy cotton, linen blends, or leather are ideal. Choose materials that can withstand frequent use and complement the chair’s style.

How should I prepare the foam and padding before reupholstering?
Inspect the existing foam for wear and replace if necessary. Cut new foam to fit snugly, then cover with batting to create a smooth, cushioned surface before attaching fabric.

What is the recommended method for attaching fabric to the chair frame?
Use a staple gun to secure the fabric, starting from the center and working outward to ensure even tension. Fold and tuck fabric neatly around corners and curves to maintain a clean finish.

Can I upholster a wing back chair without professional experience?
Yes, with patience and attention to detail, beginners can upholster a wing back chair by following step-by-step guides and practicing basic techniques. Starting with simpler projects can build confidence.
Upholstering a wing back chair is a detailed process that requires careful planning, patience, and precision. The main steps involve removing the old fabric and padding, inspecting and repairing the frame if necessary, cutting and attaching new padding, and carefully measuring and fitting the new fabric to ensure a smooth, tailored finish. Attention to detail in each phase, from securing the fabric with staples to finishing edges and adding decorative elements, is essential to achieve a professional and durable result.

Key takeaways include the importance of selecting high-quality materials that complement the chair’s design and intended use. Proper tools such as staple guns, upholstery needles, and webbing stretchers are crucial for efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, understanding the chair’s structure, especially the wings and curves, helps in cutting fabric patterns that fit seamlessly without excess bulk or tension. Taking time to methodically work through each step reduces errors and enhances the overall aesthetic and comfort of the chair.

Ultimately, upholstering a wing back chair is a rewarding project that combines craftsmanship with creativity. Whether restoring a cherished antique or customizing a modern piece, mastering the techniques involved can extend the life of the chair and elevate its style. With patience and attention to detail, even those new to upholstery

Author Profile

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Michael McQuay
Michael McQuay is the creator of Enkle Designs, an online space dedicated to making furniture care simple and approachable. Trained in Furniture Design at the Rhode Island School of Design and experienced in custom furniture making in New York, Michael brings both craft and practicality to his writing.

Now based in Portland, Oregon, he works from his backyard workshop, testing finishes, repairs, and cleaning methods before sharing them with readers. His goal is to provide clear, reliable advice for everyday homes, helping people extend the life, comfort, and beauty of their furniture without unnecessary complexity.