how to fix a wobbly upholstered chair

Upholstered chairs are an excellent addition to your home, providing you with both style and comfort. However, after prolonged use, they may develop a wobble, which can be an eyesore and make you feel uncomfortable. This problem often occurs due to loose joints or screws, a damaged frame, or unbalanced legs. Luckily, fixing a wobbly upholstered chair is usually an easy task that you can do yourself. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to fix a wobbly upholstered chair.

Step 1: Inspect the Chair

The first step in fixing a wobbly upholstered chair is to inspect it and determine the cause of the wobble. Start by sitting on the chair and identifying which part is causing the wobble. Check whether the legs are even, if any screws are loose or missing, or if the frame is damaged. By identifying the cause of the wobble, you can plan accordingly and save time and effort.

Step 2: Tighten Loose Screws

One common cause of a wobbly chair is loose screws. Check all visible screws, especially those that connect the legs to the frame or those holding the chair arms in place. Use a screwdriver to tighten them, turning clockwise until each screw is securely in place. If any screws are missing, replace them with similar-sized ones to maintain stability. Tightening the screws can effectively solve the wobble, but if the problem persists, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Fix Damaged or Loose Joints

A damaged or loose joint can cause a wobbly chair. If the joints connecting the legs to the frame are loose or damaged, gently pry off the cover from the bottom of the chair using a flathead screwdriver or a pry bar. Once you have access to the chair's interior, tighten the joints using a drill and wood glue. For loose joints, brace them by using wooden blocks or metal braces. If the joints are severely damaged beyond repair, replace them entirely.

Step 4: Balance the Legs

If none of the above steps worked, assume that the legs may be uneven, causing the wobble. To balance the legs, place the chair on a flat surface and test each leg separately. If any leg is unbalanced, use a wrench to fold or add padding material to level the feet. If the chair has adjustable feet, use these to balance the chair. Once all the legs are level, test the chair to ensure it's stable.

Step 5: Reattach the Upholstery Cover

After you're done with the repair, reattach the upholstery cover, making sure that it's properly aligned and securely in place. Use a staple gun for re-attaching the cover, beginning from the bottom and stretching as you go to ensure a smooth and wrinkle-free finish.

Conclusion

Fixing a wobbly upholstered chair can be easy with the right tools, patience, and the willingness to get your hands dirty. You don't need to be an expert to perform these steps, but you do need to pay attention to detail when inspecting and repairing the chair. By following these steps, you can successfully fix any wobble in your upholstered chair and enjoy the comfort and style it brings to your home.