Reupholster or Replace? How to Decide What’s Worth It

One of the questions we hear all the time in our Utah design studio is:

“I have this sofa (or these dining chairs, or that heirloom bench)… should I reupholster it, or just buy something new?”

Great question—and the answer isn’t always what people expect.

Reupholstery Myth: “It’s always cheaper than buying new.”

Reality: Once you add up quality fabric, new foam or inserts, and the labor of a skilled upholsterer, the price tag can match or exceed the cost of brand-new furniture. So how do you know which route is best? Let’s break it down.

Reupholster When…

1. The Piece Has Sentimental Value

   • Grandma’s wingback, your parents’ first sofa, a flea-market find from a special trip—if it tells your story, it’s worth renewing.

   • We can often reduce cost by re-covering only the seats or backs if the rest is in good shape.

2. It’s High-Quality and Structurally Sound

   • Solid hardwood frame, eight-way hand-tied springs, or premium craftsmanship? A new fabric can make it feel brand-new for decades more use.

   • Not ready for a full makeover? Swap cushion covers for a quick refresh.

 Skip Reupholstery & Buy New When…

1. The Frame Is Broken or Cheaply Made

   • Loose joints, sagging springs, or particleboard frames = money pit.

   • You’ll spend more fixing it than replacing it—and still end up with subpar comfort.

2. It Wasn’t Built to Last in the First Place

   • Mass-produced, lower-end pieces often can’t handle the investment of high-quality fabric and labor.

   • Instead, upgrade to something new that fits your style and delivers long-term durability.

Still Unsure? Ask Yourself:

• Sentimental weight: Does it have a story you’d hate to lose?

• Structural integrity: Is the frame strong and solid?

• Perfect fit: Is the size/shape hard to find in stores?

• Budget reality: Does reupholstery truly make financial sense once you price materials and expert labor?

If you answer “yes” to the first three—and the numbers work—reupholster. If not, it’s probably time to treat yourself to something new.

The Bottom Line

Reupholstering can breathe fresh life into beloved furniture, but it’s not always the budget shortcut people expect. Weigh emotional value, craftsmanship, and total cost before you commit.

Ready for a Furniture Glow-Up?

• Love the bones but hate the fabric? We’ll help you choose durable performance textiles and handle the reupholstery start-to-finish.

• Time to start from scratch? Browse our showroom or let us design a custom piece that fits your space and style perfectly.

Book a complimentary design consultation or stop by Hamilton Park Interiors in Utah to explore your options. Together, we’ll decide whether to save it or skip it—and make sure you end up with furniture that feels just right for years to come. Make sure to check out our Instagram page @hamiltonparkinteriors!