How to Reupholster a Bench

A bench is one of the most versatile and satisfying pieces of furniture to reupholster. Whether it's an entryway bench, a bedroom end-of-bed bench, a piano bench, or a dining bench, the process is straightforward and the results are dramatic. Here's a complete guide.

What You'll Need

• Upholstery fabric: TinaKim Upholstery Fabric, Linen Type, 1 Yard
• Staple gun: Metabo HPT Narrow Crown Stapler, 18 Gauge
• Upholstery foam: GoTo Foam 2" x 24" x 72" Firm Upholstery Cushion
• Batting: PLANTIONAL Natural Cotton Batting
• Putty knife: Rerdeim 5-Piece Putty Knife Set
• Screwdriver set: CRAFTSMAN Screwdriver Set, 8-Piece
• Wood glue: Titebond II Premium Wood Glue

Step 1: Assess the Bench Type

Benches generally fall into two categories: those with a removable padded seat (screwed to the frame from underneath) and those where the fabric is stapled directly to the top of the bench frame. Removable seats are much easier to work with. Check underneath for screws.

Step 2: Remove the Seat or Old Fabric

For removable seats: unscrew from underneath and remove. Use a putty knife to remove all old staples and fabric.
For fixed fabric: pry out all staples from the underside of the bench frame and remove the old fabric completely.

Step 3: Inspect the Frame

Check all joints and legs for stability. Reglue any loose joints with Titebond wood glue and clamp until cured. A wobbly bench is dangerous — fix structural issues before reupholstering.

Step 4: Replace the Foam

Cut new GoTo Foam to the exact dimensions of the bench seat. For a dining bench or entryway bench that sees heavy use, use a firm, high-density foam. For a bedroom bench used mainly for decoration, a softer foam is fine. Attach with spray adhesive.

Step 5: Add Batting

Wrap the foam with cotton batting, pulling it around to the underside and stapling in place. For a long bench, use multiple pieces of batting overlapped slightly at the seams.

Step 6: Cut the Fabric

Cut upholstery fabric 4–5 inches larger than the bench seat on all sides. For a long bench, you may need to join two pieces of fabric — plan the seam placement carefully so it falls at the back or underside where it won't be visible.

Step 7: Staple the Fabric

Center the fabric over the foam. Starting at the center of the long back edge, pull taut and staple with the Metabo HPT stapler. Move to the center of the front edge, pull taut, and staple. Work outward from each center point, stapling every inch. At corners, create neat folds and staple flat.

Step 8: Reattach and Finish

Screw the seat back onto the bench frame. Trim any excess fabric from the underside. Add felt pads to the bottom of the legs to protect your floors.

Pro Tips

• For an entryway bench, choose a durable, easy-to-clean fabric — performance velvet or outdoor fabric works beautifully.
• A piano bench needs firm foam — soft foam compresses too much during playing and affects posture.
• For a long dining bench, consider adding a center support board to prevent the foam from sagging over time.
• Nailhead trim along the sides of the bench gives a very polished, custom look.
• Coordinate the bench fabric with other upholstered pieces in the room for a cohesive look.