Reupholstering a Glider

[Anonymous]

A family friend is giving us a 10 year old glider and ottoman. It's still in great working condition, but the cushion covers are faded (and ugly). We're expecting our first child in May and I would like to use this glider for a second child.

I can't sew, nor do I have a sewing machine. Is it worth it to have the cushions reupholstered? Suggestions are where to take it? I live in DC and work in Rockville.

[Anonymous]

Reupholstering is expensive if you're getting it professionally done. Depending on the glider, it might not be worth it. If the cushions tie to the glider you can probably find replacement rocking chair type cushions online for less than a re-upholster job. If the entire glider is upholstered it could be worth the money to get it done since a new glider is $600+, but expect it run a few hundred. Try to find a place that you have the option of purchasing your fabric from somewhere else ahead of time and then try to shop the cheaper fabric stores like Joann Fabrics vs. G Street. But price it out if you used a fabric from their store vs. buying elsewhere, sometimes it can be cheaper.

[Anonymous]

If you are not picky about fabric, the manufacturers have clearance cushions for much cheaper. The Dutailier site usually retails their replacement cushions for chairs for $250 but the clearance ones are as cheap as $79.

[Anonymous]

I agree that any quality reupholstering job should wait until the spitup, projectile vomiting and potty training years have passed.

That being said, look into temporary (and washable) slipcovers for chairs or recliners. You could likely find something that fits, or pay a seamstress to fit an off-the-shelf item a little more closely.

[Anonymous]

OP here--these are very helpful suggestions. I didn't think about the baby messes that would ruin a custom job. I'll check the Dutailier site and look into slip covers. I figure I'll be spending a lot of time in that chair and didn't want an eyesore.

[Anonymous]

OP, don't give up. Spending even up to $300 isn't a bad idea if you really like the glider. I have a glider I like just fine -- got it used for $70.

Now I've had it for 5 years, thanks to #2 coming along; and I'll keep it in #2s room for at least another year if not more (we like to rock and snuggle). I wish I'd gotten mine redone -- because looking at that ratty-tatty thing annoys the snot out of me. I throw a blanket over it so I don't see it.

[Anonymous]

Sorry, PP again:

The truth is that even new gliders often come with upholstery that I find not particularly attractive. This way, you have an opportunity to get something you actually like.

Whatever you do, make sure you can wash the fabric or spray it with oxyclean. Get sample swatch and test it out ahead of time.

[Anonymous]

NP here. Is there a particular type of chair cover that would work with a glider?