How to Calculate How Much Fabric You'll Need to Reupholster

Reupholstering can add years of life to an old chair or sofa. But it's not an inexpensive process. One of the biggest expenses--and the one that's most easily overlooked--is the cost of the fabric. A common sofa can require as little as 10 yards of fabric or as much as 20 yards. For a fabric costing $100 a yard, that can mean a difference of $1,000.

To help you decide if the project is worthwhile, take a look at the design calculator devised by the folks at Domino magazine. Choose the piece of furniture you want to reupholster--either a sofa, loveseat, chair, lounge or ottoman--and then select from an array of typical styles for that piece. (There are 20 varieties of chairs alone.) You'll be told approximately how many yard of fabric you'll need to re-cover the piece. The calculation is designed for estimation purposes only--you'll want to consult with an upholsterer for a more exact count.

Besides listing the quantity of fabric you'll need, the calculator also offers advice on the best textiles to use for that particular piece, and suggests details that might enhance the finished product.