how to upholster a chair with buttons

Upholstering a chair with buttons may seem like an intimidating task, but with the right tools and some patience, it can be a rewarding DIY project. With this guide, you will learn step-by-step how to transform a chair into an elegant and comfortable piece of furniture.

Preparation

Before starting, you will need a few essential tools and materials. You will need a chair with a wooden frame, fabric, a staple gun, a drill, a button-making kit, and foam padding. It is also recommended to have a pair of scissors, pliers, and a sewing kit. Make sure to choose a fabric that complements the decor of your room and is durable enough to withstand daily use.

Padding the Chair

Once you have gathered all the necessary materials, the first step is to remove any previous upholstery from the chair. Then, cut a layer of foam padding to fit the seat and back of the chair, leaving an extra inch around each edge. Secure the padding to the chair by stapling it in place along the edges of the chair frame. Next, create tufting holes on the padded surface where you want to place the buttons by drilling holes through the foam and the wood frame.

Threading the Buttons

To make the buttons, follow the instructions provided in your button-making kit. Cut small circles of fabric slightly larger than the diameter of your button. Place a button on top of the fabric and push it through the center. Then, use a needle and thread to sew the circumference of the fabric circle around the button, pulling the thread tight to gather the fabric around the button. Tie a knot to secure the thread and cut any excess.

Securing the Buttons

Once you have made all the buttons, it is time to begin securing them in place. Thread a long needle with a double strand of upholstery thread. Starting from the back of the chair, push the needle through the pre-drilled hole in the foam and the wood frame. Thread a button onto the needle and push it down until it is flush with the foam. Push the needle back through the hole and pull it tight to create a tuft. Tie a knot at the back of the chair and cut any excess thread. Repeat this process for all the buttons.

Finishing Touches

Once all the buttons are in place, it is time to finish the edges of the fabric. Pull the fabric snugly around the edge of the chair and staple it securely in place. Use pliers to pull out any staples that are not flush with the wood. Trim any excess fabric with scissors and fold it under before stapling it down. You can also add decorative trim to the edges of the chair for an extra touch of elegance.

Conclusion

Upholstering a chair with buttons may take some time and effort, but the result is a beautiful and unique piece of furniture that you can be proud to say you made yourself. With the right tools, materials, and some patience, you can transform a plain chair into a stylish and comfortable addition to your home.