Upholstering dining chairs is a great way to give them a new lease on life and add a touch of personal style to your dining room. However, before you can start reupholstering, you need to know how to measure your dining chairs correctly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of measuring dining chairs for upholstery, ensuring a perfect fit and a stunning finished product.
1. Gather Your Tools:
Before you begin measuring, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Measuring tape
- Pen or pencil
- Paper
- Camera (optional)
2. Measuring the Seat:
1. Seat Width: Measure the width of the seat from left to right at its widest point.
2. Seat Depth: Measure the depth of the seat from front to back at its widest point.
3. Seat Height: Measure the height of the seat from the floor to the top of the seat cushion.
3. Measuring the Back:
1. Back Height: Measure the height of the back from the seat to the top of the backrest.
2. Back Width: Measure the width of the back at its widest point.
3. Back Thickness: Measure the thickness of the back at its thickest point.
4. Measuring the Arms:
1. Arm Length: Measure the length of the arm from the point where it meets the seat to the end of the arm.
2. Arm Width: Measure the width of the arm at its widest point.
3. Arm Height: Measure the height of the arm from the seat to the top of the arm.
5. Measuring the Legs:
1. Leg Length: Measure the length of the legs from the bottom of the seat to the bottom of the foot.
2. Leg Width: Measure the width of the legs at their widest point.
3. Leg Shape: Note the shape of the legs (e.g., round, square, tapered).
6. Additional Measurements:
1. Welt Cord: If you plan to use welt cord, measure the circumference of the seat and the back where the welt cord will be sewn.
2. Skirt: If you’re adding a skirt to your chair, measure the desired length and width of the skirt.
7. Taking Photos:
Taking photos of your chair from different angles can be helpful when you’re reupholstering. This will allow you to refer back to the photos if you need to remember how the chair was originally constructed.
Perfecting Upholstery Measurements:
1. Consistency: Ensure consistency in your measurements by taking them from the same point on each side of the chair.
2. Accuracy: Double-check your measurements to ensure they’re accurate. Even a small error can lead to an ill-fitting upholstery job.
3. Notes: Take notes of any unique features or details of your chair that may affect the upholstery process.
Summary: Measuring for Upholstery Success
By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can accurately measure your dining chairs for upholstery. Remember, precise measurements are crucial for a successful reupholstery project. With careful measuring and a bit of patience, you’ll be well on your way to giving your dining chairs a beautiful and comfortable new look.
Top Questions Asked
1. Q: Can I measure my dining chair without disassembling it?
A: Yes, you can measure your dining chair without disassembling it. However, it may be more challenging to get accurate measurements, especially for the seat depth and back thickness.
2. Q: What should I do if my dining chair has an unusual shape?
A: If your dining chair has an unusual shape, take additional measurements to capture its unique features. You can also take photos from different angles to help you remember the chair’s original construction.
3. Q: How can I ensure my measurements are accurate?
A: To ensure accurate measurements, use a reliable measuring tape and double-check your measurements before proceeding. You can also ask a friend or family member to help you take the measurements.
