Recovering a sofa is often a surprisingly smart way to refresh a space without replacing an entire piece of furniture. For some, it’s about saving money; for others, it’s about keeping a well-loved sofa in service. 

There’s also the appeal of making a choice that’s better for the environment, as you’re reusing rather than discarding. Whatever your reason, knowing the real costs upfront can help you plan properly.

In this guide, we’ll break down fabric prices, tool expenses, and size considerations so you can decide if a DIY approach is right for you.

Why Recover a Sofa Yourself?

Doing the work yourself can bring several advantages. The first, naturally, is cost  –  paying a professional upholsterer will almost always be more expensive than buying your own materials and putting in the time. Then there’s the creative side: you can select an upholstery fabric that matches your exact vision rather than choosing from a limited selection.

It’s also an eco-conscious choice. By keeping a sofa frame in use and replacing only the worn elements, you reduce waste and the need for new manufacturing. For many, the satisfaction of seeing the finished result in their own home makes the hours spent even more worthwhile.

Breaking Down the Costs: Fabric, Tools and Time

When planning, the biggest part of your budget will usually go on fabric. Prices vary widely depending on the type and quality you choose. A basic woven polyester might start from around £8–£10 per metre, while high-end velvets, genuine leathers, or heavy-duty outdoor fabrics can reach £30–£50 per metre or more. Remember that upholstery fabric is often wider than standard craft fabric, which can help reduce the number of seams you need.

Tools are the second main cost. A good staple gun can range from £15 for a basic manual model to £50 or more for an electric version. You’ll also need staples, quality fabric scissors, a tape measure, a screwdriver set, and possibly an upholstery needle with strong thread. Many of these are one-time purchases, meaning you’ll have them for future projects.

Time is a cost in itself. A first-time DIYer might spend several days completing the job, especially if you’re taking care to match patterns or replace padding. Hidden expenses like delivery fees for fabric, extra foam, or dust sheets for covering your workspace can add up, so allow for a little flexibility in your budget.

How Much Fabric Do You Really Need?

Measuring accurately is key. Start by noting the length, width, and depth of the sofa’s main body. Include armrests, back panels, and all cushions. If you have patterned fabric, allow extra to ensure the design aligns neatly across different sections – this is often overlooked, yet it makes a huge difference to the finished look.

A standard two-seater often requires 12–14 metres of fabric, while a three-seater might need 15–18 metres. If you’re new to upholstery, it’s safer to order slightly more than your calculations suggest; offcuts can be used for scatter cushions or matching accessories.

Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Budget

Fabric choice affects both cost and how long your recovered sofa will last. At the more affordable end, polyester blends offer durability with a wide choice of colours. Cotton or linen mixes provide a natural feel but may need protective treatment to handle heavy use.

For a more luxurious finish, velvets and chenilles offer rich texture but come at a higher price point. Leatherette can mimic real leather’s look at a fraction of the cost, with the added bonus of being easy to clean. Outdoor-rated fabrics can be a clever choice if you expect spills or have pets, as they combine strength with weather resistance. Whichever you choose, match the fabric’s durability rating to the level of use your sofa gets.

Tool Checklist for a DIY Sofa Recovery

Having the right tools makes the process smoother and the finish neater. Essentials include:

• Staple gun – to fix the new fabric securely to the frame.
• Staples – heavy-duty, sized to suit your staple gun.
• Fabric scissors – for clean, accurate cuts.
• Tape measure – for precise dimensions.
• Screwdrivers – to remove and reattach any fixings.
• Pliers – for pulling out old staples or tacks.
• Upholstery needle and strong thread – for hand-finishing tricky corners or seams.

You may also want gloves to protect your hands and dust sheets to keep your workspace clean.

How to Estimate Costs for a Two-Seater vs Three-Seater

Let’s put the elements together. A budget-conscious two-seater project might use a £10 per metre fabric, totalling around £130–£150 for fabric alone, plus £30–£50 in basic tools if you don’t own them already. Add a small allowance for extras and you could complete it for £180–£220.

For a three-seater, even with the same fabric choice, the extra metres will increase the cost to around £180–£200 for fabric, with total project costs closer to £230–£270. Higher-end fabrics will raise these figures considerably, but the principles remain the same – fabric is the main driver, followed by tools and extras.

Is DIY Sofa Recovery Worth It in the Long Run?

The answer depends on your priorities. If you enjoy hands-on projects and have the time to invest, the savings can be significant compared to professional reupholstery. You also get the personal satisfaction of creating something unique. On the other hand, it’s worth being realistic about the time, effort, and skill required. If you rush, you risk ending up with a result that falls short of your expectations.

For many, the ideal compromise is starting with a simpler project like a footstool or dining chair before tackling a full sofa – building confidence while still saving money.

Understanding the full cost to recover a sofa helps you plan and avoid surprises. From fabric selection to tool investment, each choice affects your final total. With careful preparation and a reliable supplier, you can balance budget, style, and durability. Take your time, measure well, and explore the range of upholstery fabric options at UK Fabrics Online to find the perfect fit for your project.