Do-it-yourself sofa failed. How to repair or restore an old sofa with your own hands

Buying new furniture is always accompanied by significant costs, which may not be affordable for everyone. Restoration will help keep your budget safe and sound. Let's figure out how to repair an old sofa with your own hands, and what tools may be required for this.

Many citizens are suspicious of restoring old furniture, although it has a lot of undeniable advantages. These include:

• saving money;
• independent choice of design;
• preserving memories associated with an antique item;
• revision weak points designs to increase ease of use.

Budget savings

The main plus for which many decide to restore the sofa. Updating parts that have exhausted their service life costs much less, and the remaining money can be spent on more pleasant needs.

Antique Preservation

Old, antique things have always been valued. Why throw away a good, sturdy sofa that has a lot of memories attached to it? Easier to refresh it appearance and continue to use it for your pleasure. Perhaps in the future, the money saved on buying a sofa will be better used.

Choice of colors

When buying new furniture, the problem of choosing the right one often arises. color scheme, harmoniously fitting into the current interior of the room. In case of restoration, it is much easier to buy fabric of the desired color, and this saves not only money, but also time.

Independent selection of material according to quality

Another undoubted advantage is the ability to choose the quality of the material used for restoration. An old sofa can be covered with more expensive fabric, which will significantly increase its appearance. At the same time, the price of a new product made from the same material will be many times higher.

Strengthening weak points

Buying new furniture always carries the danger of unexpected defects or design flaws that reduce the ease of use. All the disadvantages of old furniture are already known and they can always be eliminated by purchasing a couple more unnecessary details. This way you will update the appearance and strengthen the structure as a whole, with a minimum investment.

Design

The advantages of restoration are more or less clear, now it’s time to understand the design of the sofa. This will allow you to determine the importance of a particular part, the amount of work to be done and the approximate cost of repair.

Frame

The basis of the structure, which bears the heaviest loads. Try not to purchase products made from chipboard. They are too fragile and quickly become unusable. Nice frame It is expensive, but the service life of such furniture is much longer.

Spring block base

An important detail responsible for ease of fit. If it is damaged or fails, the structure becomes inconvenient to use, and its working life is exhausted faster than usual.

Spring block

Base under spring block provides the seat with elasticity and comfort. If it fails, the sofa will begin to make creaking sounds, wear out faster and spoil the upholstery from the inside. You shouldn't let your furniture get into this state. Timely repairs will solve many problems and contribute to further savings.

Felt or thick fabric

Felt is a material natural origin, used in the assembly of sofas. Felt, or thick fabric, is used in old-style sofas as a protective layer and there are usually no problems with replacing them.

Polyurethane foam

Cheap and durable filler, widely used in the furniture industry. Polyurethane foam comes in two types:

• block;
• cast.

Note! To fill sofas, polyurethane foam is used, the density of which ranges from 30 to 40 kilograms per square meter. Fillings with a density below 30 kilograms are used only for the manufacture of decorative pillows.

Sintepon.

Synthetic filler made from non-woven fabric. It is used in budget designs due to its low cost.

Most often, it is not used as a basis for filling upholstery, but is combined with other, higher quality materials.

Upholstery fabric

The upholstery fabric is responsible for the decorative properties of the sofa and protects it from external influences. The higher quality and more expensive the upholstery, the longer the furniture retains its fresh, presentable appearance. Exists a large number of materials for these purposes - you will always have plenty to choose from.

Kinds

The complexity of restoring a sofa and its final cost largely depend on the type of furniture. Some models can be repaired quickly and without problems, while others will require a lot of resources. Let's figure out what types of sofas exist and what to expect if they break down.

Accessories

Regardless of the design of the sofa, the fittings are considered as a separate item. It consists of auxiliary structural elements, which also wear out over time. Sofa accessories include:

• legs;
• wheels.

They come in different sizes and shapes, and strength often depends on the material of manufacture.

Book

Comfortable and practical sofa models that have been popular since Soviet times. Pros of a sofa book:

• variability. Can be used as a sofa and as a bed;
• when assembled it has compact dimensions;
• has additional sections in which you can store bed sheets or things.

• It cannot be placed close to the wall, since in this position it cannot be disassembled.

Eurobook

The sofa from the Eurobook series is considered a leader in terms of structural strength. This effect is achieved due to the simplicity of the design, which reduces the possibility of breakdown to a minimum. Advantages:

• easy to disassemble and assemble;
• large selection of sizes and shapes;
• no need to move away from the wall if there is a need for additional bed space.

Flaws:

• the price is higher than that of a book sofa.

Eurobook "Tick-tock"

The difference from the basic model is the mechanism for converting the sofa into a bed. You won't have to pull out the folding module by scratching flooring. The transformation process is carried out by weight, which makes the procedure silent and practical.

The only drawback of this design is the need to remove special pillows during transformation, which come with the sofa.

Accordion

A compact and practical sofa, which got its name due to the mechanism of transformation into a bed, reminiscent of the bellows of an accordion. Advantages of the model:

• small dimensions when folded;
• high orthopedic qualities;
• ease of use.

Flaws:

• There are many complex parts in the mechanism, some of which rub against each other during transformation. This significantly increases wear on the upholstery and the structure itself.

Click-clack

A type of sofa-book, equipped with a modified disassembly mechanism. The model has three working positions:

• sitting position;
• lying position;
• "chaise lounge" position.

The name comes from the characteristic sounds made by the furniture during transformation.

Dolphin

Universal furniture with an elongated corner part. It is used in the interior of spacious living rooms, but, if necessary, fits harmoniously into small rooms. Advantages of the model:

• the sleeping place is level, without changes;
• easy to disassemble and assemble.

Flaws:

• If low-quality, cheap materials are used during the assembly process, the product will quickly become unusable.

Materials

When buying a sofa, first of all, pay attention to the upholstery and filling. These materials are most subject to mechanical stress, which reduces the shelf life of the product.

Polyurethane foam

A material with high strength and low price. Not used as a main filler. In most modifications of sofas, both old and new, polyurethane foam acts as a gasket, combined with other fillers.

Holofiber

Synthetic material with the following distinctive features:

1. Easily restores its original shape due to the porous structure of the substance.
2. No harmful chemicals are used in the production process, making the material classified as environmentally friendly.
3. Lasting.
4. Long lasting.

Flaws:

1. Requires proper care, otherwise it quickly loses its properties, becoming unusable.

Sintepon

Common synthetic material, used, among other things, in the production of furniture. Among the advantages of synthetic winterizer are:

• cheap;
• when deformed, quickly returns to its basic shape;
• the fibers of the material are strong and strong influence They don't tear, they stretch.

• may have a negative impact on health if manufactured using the adhesive method;
• When rubbed, it creates a static charge of electricity.

Vatnik

Used as flooring, combined with other fillers. Material Features:

• soft, pleasant to the touch;
• does not harm health;
• cheap;
• allows air to pass through well.

Flaws:

• not suitable as the main filler, since the fabric fibers have low elasticity. Because of this, a product made from quilted jacket does not restore its original shape well, which affects its appearance.

Periotec

Non-woven material of increased comfort, used as a filler in:

• mattresses;
• furniture;
• pillows;
• blankets

• quickly recovers even with repeated deformation of the canvas;
• makes the furniture more comfortable;
• hypoallergenic;
• allows air to pass through well.

Flock

Textiles, passed chemical treatment, the front side of which is covered with a small pile. Many people confuse it with velor. Advantages:

• dense;
• soft;
• increased wear resistance;
• allows air to pass freely.

Negative qualities:

• substances that contain alcohol have a destructive effect on flock;
• highly electrified.

Velours

A budget alternative to velvet used in production room furniture. It has a pleasant, soft fiber structure. The material is dense, which increases its wear resistance.

Jacquard

Expensive material made from various fabrics. Its main feature is considered to be its exceptional appearance and labor-intensive manufacturing process. A product covered with jacquard will decorate any home.

Chenille

A type of jacquard fabric that differs from regular fabric in the complexity of the thread weaving. Used for upholstery:

• chairs;
• armchairs;
• sofas

Tapestry

Fabric for upholstery, the threads of which are intertwined in a special way, creating a certain pattern on the surface of the material. Among the advantages are:

• beauty;
• durability;
• wide selection of colors and patterns.

Required materials and tools

In a situation where you have decided to independent restoration sofa, do not forget to prepare properly. For repair you will need:

• electric jigsaw;
• construction adhesive;
• stapler for furniture;
• screwdriver;
• pliers;
• upholstery material and filler.

Tapestry, velor or suede

Professionals who have been involved in furniture restoration for a long time advise choosing one of the following materials for upholstery:

• tapestry;
• suede;
• velours.

They have best characteristics in its price segment, and everyone will find an option to suit their pocket.

Simple plain fabric

Used to create a fastening cover. Any fabric you can afford will do.

Special furniture foam rubber

Used as a filler for a sofa. It is considered the best option in terms of price and quality ratio. If you have ample financial resources, you can purchase other, more expensive material.

Thick fabric

Thick fabric, such as carpet, is used to protect the box spring. You will need a large piece of fabric, since protection is required on both sides.

Note! Try to buy high-quality materials, otherwise another restoration will soon be required.

Construction adhesive

Glue from any manufacturer will do. During the restoration process, no more than one tube of the substance will be useful, so there is no need to make large supplies. Glue is used to carefully fix the material.

Furniture stapler

A furniture stapler is used to secure the upholstery of a sofa. The stapler must come with at least one clip of staples.

If you don’t have a stapler, you’ll have to buy it in a store or ask your neighbors for the tool.

Durable nylon thread

A sofa cover made from the upholstery material of your choice will be sewn with nylon thread. The thread should come with a strong needle.

Spanner, pliers and screwdriver

Useful when working with mechanical parts sofa, in case of replacement or adjustment. Any set of these tools sold at a hardware store will do.

Jigsaw

An indispensable thing when working with wooden parts of the sofa. If you need to saw off, trim or correct something - better tool can not found.

It is advisable to purchase it for permanent use, as it will come in handy many times in the future.

Instructions

After all the materials for restoration have been purchased and the tools have been prepared, it’s time to move on to the repair itself. This process is not complicated, you just need to be careful and consistently follow all the steps described in the instructions.

Checking and repairing upholstered furniture frames

The first step in restoring a sofa is to check all its components for integrity and functionality. If any boards are rotten or cracked, try to replace them.

This approach will allow for quality repairs. old furniture, after which it will serve for many more years.

Dismantling and inspection

After checking the frame, the process of dismantling individual structural elements begins, such as:

• armrests;
• sofa backs;
• upholstery;
• filler;
• springs

Side armrests

In most models, the fasteners are located with inside, and to get to it you will need:

• hex socket wrench;
• pliers.

If these tools are available, there will be no difficulties with dismantling.

Seats and backrests

The seats and backrests are fixed using special fasteners to the lower frame of the sofa. The tools you prepared before starting the repair of the product will help you cope with the fasteners.

Old upholstery, staples

The old upholstery is attached to the wooden parts of the sofa using special staples. They must be carefully removed, after which removing the upholstery will not be difficult.

Old filler

Once the upholstery is removed, access to the sofa filling will open. It is advisable to immediately replace it with a new one, but if it is in acceptable condition, you can leave the old filling.

Springs, checking their condition

Once the filler is removed, we move on to evaluating the springs. If the inspection result shows a satisfactory condition, it is enough to clean and coat the old parts with lubricant.

If some springs are damaged, be sure to replace them with new ones.

Checking the condition of the chipboard

Often it is the chipboard sheets that become unusable first. Replace damaged parts of the structure or leave the old ones if their condition allows reuse.

Repair and replacement of old elements

After all the components of the sofa have been dismantled, you can proceed to repair and replacement of old parts. Subject to inspection:

• base for a spring block;
• spring block;
• mechanisms responsible for disassembling the sofa;
• slats.

Spring block base

The base for the spring block is completely changed if any defects or malfunctions are detected. Fastening to the block is carried out using a stapler. If you couldn’t find a stapler, take:

• thin cloves;
• steel wire.

We make brackets from them and attach the springs.

Spring block

To repair a spring block, you must:

• replace faulty springs;
• cover each side of the block with thick fabric, which is attached to the part using a nylon thread.

Note! The edges of the fabric are folded inward.

Case and cover

Fastening the cover and covering the frame with upholstery is carried out using construction glue and a stapler. Don't forget to return the old filler or replace it with a new one.

Mechanism repair

Repairing sofa mechanisms has its own nuances, depending on which operating principle is used:

• folding;
• roll-out

In withdrawable ones, the roller most often fails, and in folding ones, the springs fail, which over time lose their shape and burst.

Lamels

Reasons for lamella failure:

• poor quality of material;

Decoration

Decorating the sofa is done using:

• creating beautiful pillows;
• carriage screed;
• figured solid wood.

Beautiful pillows

Pillows are made independently, from leftover material, or purchased in a store. It all depends on your financial capabilities.

Carriage tie

The back of the sofa is decorated with a carriage tie. To do this, small circles are cut out of the foam rubber during stuffing, after which buttons will be sewn in their place. This will help prevent the material from curling. Afterwards the frame is covered with fabric and decorative elements are sewn on.

Figured solid wood

Wooden armrests can be decorated by sticking them on solid wood. Such a sofa will look much more beautiful and will last longer than usual.

Features of choice

When choosing fabric for lining and padding, it is worth considering some nuances, which we will discuss below.

Upholstery fabrics

When choosing your upholstery fabric, keep the following details in mind:

• the fabric should be easy to clean from dirt;
• the fabric should look attractive;
• Resistant to exposure to ultraviolet radiation and moisture.

Filler

When constantly using furniture for its intended purpose, choose:

• latex;
• durafil;
• spring block;
• holofiber.

Operating rules

TO basic rules The use of sofas includes:

1. When moving furniture from place to place, do not drag the sofa along the floor, but lift it.
2. Periodically check the reliability of the fasteners, as over time they become loose.
3. Do not exceed the permissible load capacity specified by the manufacturer.
4. Sofas with a built-in mattress are laid out at least once a month.

Any thing becomes unusable over time and cushioned furniture not an exception. But in the case of furniture, it is possible to restore it original appearance and properties. This article will discuss self-upholstery sofa How, what and in what order should be done, what materials should be used.

Damage and types of repair

Damage to a sofa or other upholstered furniture can vary in severity. Depending on the existing injuries, a different range of work is required. Here's what can happen to your furniture:

So reupholstering a sofa can involve different jobs. From simply replacing the upholstery to a complete renovation, including part of the frame. The most troublesome part is with the spring blocks. This is long and painstaking work. If the “historical accuracy” of your furniture is not important to you, it is easier to replace a failed spring block with foam rubber or (better, but more expensive) furniture silicone. If everything is done correctly, the sofa will become even more comfortable: incorrectly tightened springs cause a lot of inconvenience.

Types of "soft part"

IN general outline Let's talk about what the seat and back of the sofa can be made of. There are options:

• Without springs:
  • High-density foam rubber (polyurethane foam, also called PU foam) (also called furniture foam).
  • Foamed latex. In terms of quality and convenience, it is better than foam rubber, but also much more expensive.
• With springs:
  • with classic springs connected into one block;
  • snake springs that support the foam/latex filling.

These are the most common types of sofa seats. In more expensive models, the spring block can be supplemented with a layer of polyurethane foam or latex, which makes the seat more elastic and comfortable at the same time. When reupholstering, they then look at the condition of both parts, replace or leave them - depending on desire and capabilities.

But that's not all the layers. In addition to springs, polyurethane foam/latex, padding polyester or thermal felt (or regular felt) are also laid. This is if the sofa is more or less modern and not too expensive. Older exhibits may contain matting or burlap, batting (or something very similar), horsehair, dried seaweed and other now almost exotic materials for sofa stuffing. When repairing a sofa, they will need to be replaced with the same ones (if you want to look) or similar in thickness and properties. So, to understand how a sofa should be reupholstered, first understand what’s inside it.

We disassemble the sofa and assess the scale of the work

Reupholstering a sofa begins with disassembling it. During the process, you will be able to assess the extent of the damage and decide what exactly you need to do. For this part of the job you will need:

• a large screwdriver to unscrew visible bolts (if any);
• a small flat-head screwdriver, pliers or staple remover - to remove the staples that secure the upholstery.

The main thing is to remove old upholstery. Then everything will become clear

Actually, that's all. First, remove the individual pillows, if any, and remove the side panels. It’s difficult to suggest here - there are many designs. Look carefully, you are sure to find something. If you have retractable parts, you can try starting with them.

Separating the upholstery

The next step is to separate the fabric from the frame. It is attached with staples to wooden blocks frame. We pry the staples with a flat screwdriver and pull them out. Some may fit very tightly; it is easier to pull them out by grabbing them by the raised back with pliers or pliers.

We remove the fabric carefully, trying not to damage it too much. We will then use it as a sample for new sofa upholstery. There are several layers underneath the upholstery fabric. Maybe felt, padding polyester, some kind of fabric. If the sofa repair was started only to replace the upholstery, look at the condition of these materials. If there are signs of wear, it is better to replace. After all, it will be a shame if in a few months the sofa needs to be reupholstered again, but this time because the layers of the lining have been removed.

Once the fabric is removed, it's time to evaluate which parts you'll need to replace. Everything is clear with the upholstery and lining underneath. It is advisable to keep the pie in the same composition. If old materials were used that are not currently on sale or are too expensive, replace them with modern analogues. The main thing for folding sofas is to reach the same height of the seat and back that were before, since folding mechanisms are designed for certain parameters of the “pillows”. In order not to be mistaken with the thickness of materials, find unworn (or least worn) areas and measure the thickness.

Assessing the damage

This stage is needed if the sofa seat is uneven, there are humps and depressions, protruding springs (and from below too). In seats that consist only of foam rubber, everything is simple: they are usually replaced. They can be made from high-density foam rubber by folding several layers; you can order ready-made foam rubber at a store that sells furniture spare parts. It is wise to order a latex mattress according to exact dimensions (measure after removing the fabric and all layers).

If the sofa has springs, remove all the covering layers to get to them. If there are no burst springs, the frame and its connections are strong, without play or cracks, the backing for the springs is in good condition, you can stop there. We change the covering layers, sew a new cover, stretch it and fasten it. This completes the reupholstery of the sofa.

One of the common defects of spring blocks is a broken spring. There are also sofas with spring snakes that are attached to the frame and give elasticity to the foam mattress standing on top

If there is any damage listed above, the spring unit will have to be separated. It is attached to the frame frame using U-shaped brackets or nails. Now you have completely disassembled your sofa into its components. Next is the replacement and repair of damaged parts, and then reassembly.

Classic sofa pie with a spring block and possible problems

To understand how to repair a sofa at home, you need to know what layers of materials are needed and in what order. For example, in a sofa seat with a spring block the sequence will be like this (from bottom to top):

1. Frame made of plywood or wooden blocks. A plywood frame is more reliable, but it takes longer and is more difficult to make. Therefore, pine bars are usually used. They are connected according to the tenon-groove principle, gluing the joint with wood glue. If desired, the connections can be strengthened with dowels or corners (aluminum).

   

2. Spring block base. There may be options: lamellas (straps of elastic material), fiberboard, plywood. Most a budget option- Fiberboard, the most expensive - lamellas. The lamellas are attached to special stops (lamella holders). When using plastic stops, there is a risk of them breaking. At the same time, low-quality lamellas can bend (in normal condition they are curved slightly upward) or break - to reduce cost they are often placed at large intervals. All this leads to the fact that the sofa seat is pressed through. Instead of wooden slats, there may also be snake springs. They also have sufficient elasticity, but cost less. The problems with them are the same.
3. The spring block itself. The block can be with independent or dependent springs. The first one is cheaper, the second one supports the body well. Such mattresses are also called orthopedic.
4. Felt or thick fabric(teak or other similar dense fabric will do). This layer is needed so that the springs do not push through the foam rubber located above.

   If the fabric is thin, it will tear, and then the foam will begin to crumble. But this is not the saddest thing - the lamellas were bent in the opposite direction. In normal condition they should be curved upwards

5. Polyurethane foam(PPU, foam rubber - all names of the same material). Special dense foam rubber is used. If you choose, in addition to density, look at such an indicator as the durability coefficient - the higher the number, the better (and more expensive). This indicator reflects how long the foam will take to restore its original shape after removing the load. Its thickness is taken from the original factory cake. You can make it thicker without restrictions only on upholstered furniture that does not fold out (banquette, sofa, armchair).
6. Sintepon. It is necessary so that the fabric does not “wash” the polyurethane foam. It is usually glued to a layer of foam rubber so that it does not bunch up during use. The glue is taken in a can.
7. Upholstery fabric. The best are tapestry, chenille. They don't fray and it's easy to sew with them. Flock and jacquard are good fabrics, but some of them “creep” at the seams. Therefore, when you sew, the seams need to be strengthened. By the way, it is better to sew upholstery for a sofa with special Tytan brand threads. Regular ones, even thick ones, will quickly tear.

These are all the layers and their features. You can add something (for example, a double layer of padding polyester), but removing it is highly undesirable.

The design of a sofa on snake springs and options for its restoration

Snake springs in expensive models are used as an additional means to increase elasticity. In budget models, a foam block can be placed on this base. They are attached to a wooden or metal frame across the seat - each spring separately. The installation step depends on the planned load. If your sofa begins to sag, or the springs have lost their elasticity or are broken, the solution is to replace them.

To increase elasticity and extend service life, when reupholstering a sofa, the number of “snakes” can be increased. Another option is transverse reinforcement with rigid corsage ribbons (which are used for straps on bags and backpacks).

The tape is nailed on one side to the frame. Professional furniture makers then stretch it using special tool, but you can replace it with a regular block wrapped around the middle sandpaper with large grains. You wrap a couple of turns of tape around this beam, pull with both hands (make sure that the frame does not bend), secure the tape with staples or nails, release and cut off the excess. The same method is also suitable for increasing the service life of a mattress with slats.

An example of sofa repair with step-by-step photos

The old sofa became completely uncomfortable, began to sag in places and creak. There is no way to buy a new one, it was decided to reupholster and change the upholstery. As usual, reupholstering a sofa begins with disassembly. The legs were removed first. The railings were fastened with two large bolts; they were unscrewed and removed without any problems. Further disassembly is also not difficult - we unscrew the bolts that appear one by one.

When all the components were separated, the old upholstery was removed. The staples were easy to remove - the frame was made of pine timber. The spring block itself turned out to be without defects, but there was a crack in the frame, one of the frame beams sagged, the fiberboard sagged, although there were no cracks.

Frame repair

Since the frame bears the main load, it is better to replace damaged elements. We carefully measure them, draw them schematically, and put down the dimensions in millimeters. With the drawing we go to the carpentry shop. Please pay Special attention: the wood must be dry, preferably kiln drying. If you know how to work with wood yourself, you can do it yourself.

It was decided to connect the frame, as it was, with a tenon/groove, coated with wood glue. But to prevent it from coming loose, the connection was reinforced with metal dowels.

First, the connections are glued and clamped in a vice. A hole is not drilled under the dowel large diameter, the dowel is hammered in. The frame stands in a vice until the glue dries.

We will use 4 mm thick plywood as the base for the spring block. The sheets are standard, a little more than 1.5 meters, and the length of the sofa is almost two. It turns out two pieces. It is better to make the joint of the pieces on a jumper, it is more reliable. We cut out rectangles of the required size, coat the frame with wood glue, lay plywood, and nail it with small nails. The length of the nails is so that they do not stick out outside the frame. We additionally support the joint with a plank (50*20 mm).

The updated sofa will serve in the country house, so we try to keep the budget to a minimum; we use an old blanket instead of a backing for the springs. We stretch it well and fasten it with staples using a hand tool.

The base for the springs is an old fleece blanket

If possible, it is advisable to put thermal felt here. It is more reliable and not so expensive. It is cut to size, straightened and nailed around the perimeter. You can use staples or nails with large heads.

Repairing and fixing the spring block

To fasten the spring block, you can use powerful U-shaped brackets, and it is better if their legs are sharpened. But the stapler does not work with these, so we cut staples from steel wire with a diameter of 1.5 mm and hammer them in with a hammer.

In addition to being attached to the frame, the springs are also secured with nylon straps. Twine was taken, folded in two layers, secured with the same wire staples. We tighten the constriction so that it does not press down on the springs, but the tension should be sufficient so that the block “does not move.”

On top of the springs you should put some kind of dense material, usually it's felt. In this case, old flooring was used. Something like felt. It is quite dense and durable. Fold in two layers, cut to size. This layer must be attached to the spring block. The coating is dense, you can’t pierce it with a needle, even a gypsy one. A large diameter awl would be suitable, but there isn't one. We pierce the coating with a nail, which we push through with the handle of a screwdriver. We thread a thick thread into the holes made. The stitch pitch is about 3.5 cm. To speed up the process, we use several nails at once.

Next “according to plan” there should be foam rubber, on top of which a padding polyester is placed. In this project, it was replaced with two layers of densely elastic material, which had been stored in the attic for a long time. Instead of padding polyester, another old blanket was used. To prevent the blanket from moving around, it was tied around the perimeter with threads (in conventional technology The synthetic winterizer is glued to polyurethane foam or latex using glue from a can).

Case and cover

Upholstering this sofa turned out to be easy: the shape is simple, without decoration. The old cover was ripped open and a pattern was made from new, not very expensive upholstery fabric. In the place that falls on the corner of the sofa cushion/seat, a thick tape was sewn from the inside to prevent the fabric from fraying. The fabric is inexpensive, so the edges had to be rolled up to prevent fraying. They are often left unprocessed.

The finished cover was laid out on the floor, and the restored part of the sofa was placed in it. At this stage it is important that the fabric is stretched evenly and does not wrinkle. We started nailing the cover from the middle, moving towards the edges. Staples with thick backs were used to avoid damaging the fabric.

The back of the sofa was restored in the same way, the armrests were covered, then all the parts were screwed to the folding mechanism. The thickness of the pillows matched, so there were no problems.

The reupholstery of the sofa is finished. The result has been verified :)

According to the test results: the seat turned out to be a little hard, but it’s just right for a tired back. For the home, of course, it is better to use foam rubber, and for those who like comfort - latex.

During use, upholstered furniture wears out and loses its original appearance. Dents in the seat, failure of the spring unit and damaged upholstery are the most common problems. You can solve them without serious expenses by repairing the sofa yourself, without resorting to the help of professionals. The work does not require special skills, but it must be done carefully and consistently.

All upholstered furniture, regardless of design, includes basic elements. This:

• frame consisting of solid wood, metal or chipboard;
• soft part (foam rubber filler, spring block);
• upholstery, which uses furniture fabric, natural or artificial leather.

The sofa can be a sleeper or intended exclusively for sitting. The folding one, in addition to the listed elements, has a special transformation mechanism with which you can organize a place to rest at night. Failure of its elements - main reason why the sofa is not functioning well. For restoration, you will have to determine the type of mechanism in order to repair it or install a new one. The most popular are:

1. "Book". The most common. To recline the sofa, you need to raise the seat until you hear a click and then lower it.
2. "Eurobook". The seat moves forward and the backrest lowers into the resulting space.
3. “Click-clack.” Models with this mechanism have metal carcass, in this case, you can transform the sofa in 2 ways - completely or in a reclining position.
4. "Accordion". The back of the sofa is double-sided. It rises, extends, both parts straighten. Most often, due to high load, the elements of the mechanism are deformed; they cannot be repaired; replacement is necessary.
5. "Dolphin". Most often found in corner models. The lower part of the sofa moves forward, which is leveled to the height of the seat using pillows or filler.

If the mechanism is not broken, but it is difficult to transform or the sofa does not fold out, it is necessary to inspect the structure and find out what is interfering with normal operation. Perhaps some furniture elements are bent or rusted. In this case, you can try to solve the problem without completely changing the mechanism. Other common breakdowns and methods for eliminating them are presented in the table.

Eurobook

Click-clack

Accordion

Required Tools

Before you begin home renovations, the furniture needs to be disassembled. Should be prepared necessary tools, consumables and new materials to replace those that have become unusable. To repair a sofa yourself you will need:

• screwdriver;
• flat screwdriver;
• open-end wrenches (diameter 10, 12, 14 mm);
• pliers;
• corner key.

To troubleshoot problems you will also need:

• self-tapping screws;
• wood glue;
• furniture stapler and staples;
• construction knife;
• roulette;
• pencil.

To replace the upholstery, you will need furniture fabric or leather, to restore a dented sofa - a new spring block, filler (foam rubber or polyurethane, as well as padding polyester or batting). To repair the frame you will need bars and sheet material(plywood, chipboard). When performing repairs corner sofa equipped with a dolphin retractable mechanism, new rollers may be required. In cases where the metal frame is bent or cracked, you will not be able to straighten it yourself; you will need to replace the elements.

Tools

Repair materials

How to disassemble a sofa yourself

Repair work begins with disassembly. As you work, it is recommended to photograph each step so that during assembly you can see if everything is being done correctly.

1. Procedure: Removing the armrests. They are fixed to the frame using bolts on the sides wooden frame
2. . To open access to them, pull out or lift the seat (depending on the design of the furniture), then unscrew the fasteners with keys of the appropriate diameter. Removing the transformation mechanism. It is attached to the sides of the frame, backrest and seat. Using a screwdriver or Phillips screwdriver
3. , unscrew the fasteners.
4. Removing the backrest and seat. Both elements are connected to each other by a transformation mechanism. After removing the latter, they are easy to detach from each other and from the frame. In some models, the backrest may be screwed to the frame, then you need to remove the bolts holding it.
5. Removing the upholstery. The back and seat are turned upside down, and using a flat-head screwdriver, the staples holding the fabric to the frame are carefully pulled out. Each piece of material is signed or marked so as not to get confused when re-stretching.

Removing the filler and spring block. Between the upholstery and the foam rubber there is usually a layer of batting or padding polyester. Carefully remove it, unfastening the staples, then inspect the filler. If there are noticeable indentations, dirt or signs of destruction on it, remove it. Assess the degree of damage to the block. If there are burst springs, broken connections, or bent areas on the frame, you will have to replace it with a new one. The old one is removed by removing the nails or staples from the frame. Removing the upholstery and further actions are performed only if the upholstered part of the sofa is repaired or the upholstery is changed. If there are problems with the frame or transformation mechanism full analysis

How to repair it yourself, taking into account the type of damage

The sequence of repair actions depends on the type of breakdown. Often it is necessary to perform several operations at once. For example, along with changing the spring block, you can replace the foam rubber in the sofa.

Soft part

If the sofa sags and when you press on the seat, dents remain on it, then change the filling. After disassembling the furniture, removing the upholstery and internal contents, they begin cutting out parts from the new material. In a sofa, replacing foam rubber is done as follows:

1. Spread a piece of new foam rubber on a flat surface and place the old one on top. Using a pen, trace the contours and cut out with a construction knife.
2. Apply the workpiece to the frame, check for any protruding parts, and if necessary, cut off the excess.
3. The lower part of the part is coated with wood glue.
4. Place the workpiece on the frame and press firmly evenly.

After the glue has dried, a layer of batting or synthetic padding is laid on top of the filler, attaching the edges of the material to bottom side frame with a stapler. The sofa is then covered with new upholstery. To increase the service life of furniture fabric, a non-woven lining can be additionally used.

Place the old one on the new piece of foam

We trace the contours with a pen

Cut along the contour with a construction knife

We attach the workpiece to the frame

Coat with wood glue

Place the workpiece on the frame and press firmly

Spring block

Replacing the spring block is not always necessary - if the main part is intact, then you can try to repair the problem areas. To do this you will need pliers, wire cutters and small diameter hardened wire. They start by inspecting the block. Bent springs can be returned to their original position using pliers without dismantling or disassembling the structure. If elements are damaged, they are replaced with new ones. To do this, carefully cut off the problematic spring with pliers, and install a new one in its place, tying it to the block with wire.

If there are a lot of broken springs in the sofa, you will have to completely dismantle the unit and install a new one.

Scheme of the spring block “snake”

Use pliers to straighten the bent spring

Damaged spring

We connect the springs to the block with wire

In budget models, instead of a spring block, a “snake” can be used - a structure made of individual thick springs attached to the sides of the frame at an equal distance from each other. The repair in this case is simple. Usually the loss of elasticity of the seat is caused by the detachment of one or more elements from the frame, so it is enough to fasten the spring back. If these products are cracked and there is no way to find new ones, textile belts are used. Procedure for repairing a spring block in a sofa:

1. The tape is wound on a wooden block.
2. The free end is applied to the place where the removed spring was located. Bend the tip and use furniture stapler securely attached to the frame.
3. Apply the tape to the opposite end of the frame. To ensure high-quality tension, pull the block and nail it textile sling staples, cut off the fixed piece from the main skein.

In this way, you can not only solve the problem of missing springs, but also additionally cover the entire frame in order to extend the life of the “snake” and give the seat greater elasticity.

Using textile tape we strengthen the “snake” spring block

Frame

To repair the frame, the armrests, upper and lower parts of the structure are dismantled. Inspect parts and identify damage. If there are cracks in the frame, the structure is completely disassembled, measurements are taken of the broken element and a new part is made. For its manufacture, only dried wood is used - raw wood is deformed in the process, which will lead to new problems. If you don’t have the skills to work with the material, order a part according to your dimensions in a carpentry shop, then reassemble the frame. If necessary, strengthen the frame by installing additional transverse joists, screwing in furniture bolts or self-tapping screws at the joints of parts, and coating areas with a tongue-and-groove joint with wood glue.

Crack in the sofa frame

Cutting out a new one wood block and fasten with self-tapping screws

Transformation mechanism

Repair of a folding sofa most often involves replacing the transformation mechanism or its individual parts. Rust on the sofa may prevent you from laying out the sofa normally. this element. To remove it, use special anti-corrosion sprays, for example, WD-40. The liquid is sprayed onto problem areas, and after the time indicated on the package has passed, wiped with a dry cloth. After this treatment, all parts are lubricated. Repairing the mechanisms of sofas with damaged (bent, cracked) elements is useless; a complete replacement is necessary. You need to purchase a structure of the same type and install it in place of the old one.

Sofa transformation mechanism

Lubricate individual parts of the mechanism with anti-corrosion agents

Case and cover

After disassembling the sofa, carefully remove the upholstery from all parts. Then:

1. Spread out on the floor furniture fabric face down, straighten out all the folds.
2. Lay old covers on top of it. Trace the contours with tailor's chalk, making allowances of 5-7 cm on each side.
3. Cut out patterns with scissors.
4. The cut fabric is spread on a flat surface with the wrong side on top. The part to be covered is placed on it, face down.
5. The edges of the upholstery are brought to the back side and secured to the frame using a furniture stapler. The fabric should be stretched enough so that folds or wrinkles do not form on the surface of the product.
6. First, the material is secured with 2 staples on each side, then, straightening it evenly, they are driven in along the entire perimeter of the frame.

Repairing sofas on your own is not a technologically complicated process, but it requires care and precision. With the right approach, you can return furniture to its functionality and original appearance at minimal cost. The restoration time will depend on the skills of the master and the amount of work.

We spread new furniture fabric on the floor, put old covers on it and make patterns

An important detail of the interior is the sofa; most people spend a considerable amount of time on it. Over time, it becomes unusable, and the paradox is that no matter how you sit or lie on it, it will sag in the middle. The casing and some parts also wear out.

When such a moment comes, there are two options. Either throw it away and buy a new one, or breathe into it new life, repair the subsidence area yourself. It won't take much time and will save the family budget.

We will tell you how to fix a sofa yourself if it has fallen in the middle.

Materials and tools for work

• Upholstery material (if necessary to completely change).
• Filling: foam rubber, padding polyester, etc.
• Strong thread for re-upholstery (if necessary).
• Furniture stapler with staples.
• Flat head screwdriver for removing old trim.
• Furniture belts. If they are unavailable, strips of durable fabric are used.
• Wooden blocks (In case of frame failure).

How to fix a sofa

First of all, it is necessary to determine the location and extent of the damage. To do this, you need to look at the root of the problem. Pull the sofa to the center of the room and look inside. Perhaps the breakdown is hidden inside.

Often in such cases, the frame bar breaks or the filling in the pillows is pressed through. If the sofa has a spring base, this may be the problem, but do not despair.

Once we have identified the problem, we move on to repairs.

How to replace the filling of sofa cushions

There is nothing easier to repair a sofa than replacing the filling.

And sometimes you don’t need to change it completely; simply adding filler inside the pillow can save you. This happens if the pillows have been washed several times. During washing, the filler clumps or simply becomes softer. This gives the feeling of the sofa sagging.

Fixing the pillows will not be a problem. We carry out the work in this sequence.

• Carefully open the seam on the side of the pillow.
• Add filling, being careful not to overfill, otherwise the pillows will become hard and uncomfortable.
• If necessary, replace the filler completely.
• Don't forget to sew the seam carefully.

Important! Try to use the same filling that was used in the pillows.

If the casing becomes worn, it must be replaced. Choose a color similar to the original, or use a contrasting combination.

How to repair a spring block

Sometimes it happens that, in addition to squashed pillows, springs break.

In this case, it is necessary to remove the casing without damaging it, unless it is worn out and requires replacement.

After this, you need to find the broken springs, carefully remove them and replace them.

Furniture springs can be found in hardware stores, or you can use an old mattress that has become unusable.

In some cases, the springs are simply compressed, and their repair consists of re-tensioning the spring.

After replacing the spring, make sure to secure it correctly, otherwise you risk getting an injection when using the furniture.

If the trim does not need replacing, simply put it back on and secure it with a furniture stapler.

Advice! To avoid injury, use pliers to replace the spring.

How to fix a frame

If, after looking inside the sofa, you find that a part of the frame is broken, do not panic. Any damage can be repaired with your own hands.

To replace a broken frame part, make required material the same. Disconnect the broken part, if necessary, replace the fasteners; sometimes moisture causes the fasteners to rust.

Advice! Do not use raw material. During the drying process, it will lead, after which another repair may be required.

Install the new part. Carefully inspect the entire frame; there may be cracks in other parts. Therefore, they also need to be replaced.

Regardless of the quality of furniture in the room, sooner or later it becomes unusable. Then you need to carry out, for example, repairing a sofa yourself. To perform such work, you need to stock up on a set of attributes for installation, personal desire and the ability to interact with different materials.

The success of repair activities directly depends on the condition in which the frame base is located. Moreover, an old-style sofa made of chipboard is much more difficult to fix than can be done with a more modern analogue made of wood.

Having studied in detail design features this piece of furniture, you can get to work.

Design features of the sofa

Restore old sofa possible by repairing or replacing the main elements in the form of legs, supports, locks and reupholstery layer. All of the above types of work require special attention.

There are many models of sofas, but each of the varieties has only its own inherent details:

• armrests are made of wood, metal, MDF or chipboard, providing softness or hardness;
• unevenness of upholstery fabrics, represented by leather or leatherette;
• inner layer made of padding polyester, batting or furniture foam;
• the use of polyurethane foam to improve shock absorption properties;
• installation of a spring block;
• the use of burlap to prevent squeaks during operation;
• The frame is made of natural wood or chipboard.

Attention! The quality and duration of use of the sofa depends on the use of high-quality materials for the construction frame structure and correct installation. Significant importance is attached to the internal filler, which affects comfort and safety.

Remember! You need to disassemble the sofa from the sides, then remove the back and seat.

Types of mechanisms:

• the sofa book is used most often;
• the Eurobook is transformed by moving the seat and folding the backrest;
• the Eurobook “tick-tock” moves, occupying a circular position;
• the “accordion” appears to be in 3 parts, which are repaired in rare cases;
• the “click-click” device is represented by the following positions: assembled, half unfolded and completely;
• The “dolphin” design can be seen in corner-type mechanisms.

Return to contents

To understand how to repair a sofa, you need to understand the characteristics of the breakdown. If the transforming structure fails, you need to replace it in the model under consideration with similar parts.

The best examples of sofas will be mechanisms on a spring frame covered with burlap or batting. However, such designs will be expensive. Often, to reduce the price, manufacturers use calico and foam rubber. In cheaper versions of sofas, blocks on springs are not installed. To fill the inside of the sofa, polyurethane foam is taken and laid in a thick layer.

Repairing an old sofa should be carried out using only quality materials, which will significantly extend its service life. Thus, the thickness of the polyurethane foam should not be less than 40 cm. The holofiber used allows you to wash the structure, the padding polyester can emphasize the relief pattern of the sofa, and does not absorb moisture. Periotec has a high base strength and is not afraid of high temperatures. For spring varieties, it is best to use a 5 cm padded jacket, trimmed with a layer of hard material.

You can replace the outer upholstery yourself. For this, fabrics are taken: leather, velor, flock, tapestry, jacquard, chenille. Leather covering is performed by specialists due to the complexity of such work. Other types of matter allow you to carry out repairs on your own.

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What may be required for work

Having studied the design features of the sofa and choosing the appropriate fabric, you can begin work on restoring its previous appearance. To do this, you need to prepare a number of attributes:

• screwdrivers;
• pliers;
• stapler;
• wood glue;
• hammer, scissors;
• screwdriver and screws.

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Procedure for replacing upholstery fabric

Before carrying out the main work, the sofa must be disassembled. To avoid any difficulties with assembly in the future, it is important to remember the order of the parts. To do this, they are numbered or captured on camera. After disassembly, the mechanisms are inspected. Severe wear indicates the need to replace them.

1. First, the side parts are removed, the seat is raised and the bolts are unscrewed. Then the main device responsible for transforming the model is removed. The seat, backrest and frame should be unscrewed. The other elements of the sofa are also removed, leaving only the skeleton.
2. Old upholstery must be removed very carefully to avoid damage. This canvas will be used as a pattern for the new coating. To remove the pillows, they are disconnected from the folding device. The old screws are unscrewed from each side.
3. To remove the old one upholstery fabric, you can use a flathead screwdriver. The bracket is hooked onto it, the part gradually swings and is finally removed with pliers. Next, the casing is removed and the quality of the lining material is checked. If it is in good condition, it can remain in the same place, after which a new skin is stretched on top.
4. Next, the cover is sewn. To do this you need to have skills to work on sewing machine. The finished coating is secured with staples. When identifying the fabric on the surface, it is important to ensure its evenness; there should be no folds or wrinkles on it. Manual upholstery replacement involves strapping front side, at the fixation points the fabric is folded 2 times. Then you can move to the other side and subsequently to the corners.

In the same way, you can repair other elements of the device. Before starting work, you can put an additional pad under the fabric, which helps to increase the life of the sofa. Attachment points can be processed special glue, which will give the fabric the necessary hardness, and the fastener will be made reliably.