Slipcover or Reupholster: What Is The Difference?

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Linda Holich – Babel’s Interior Designer

Whether your furniture is beginning to look worn or you are just searching for a fresh new look, reupholstery and slip covers are easy ways to make your piece look brand new. There are many benefits to deciding to alter the appearance of a piece that you already own, one of which being that it can often be less expensive than buying a new piece. Keep reading as we describe what it means to reupholster a piece, what exactly a slipcover is, and which would be the right choice for you.

What does it mean to reupholster a piece?

Reupholstery is when the current fabric is removed from the piece and new fabric is applied in its place. When the fabric is removed, this gives the workshop the opportunity to make countless changes such as altering the shape of the arms or back, adding or removing padding, repairing springs or wood pieces, removing or adding skirts, and so much more. With all of the customization and craftsmanship required for reupholstery, the cost is often higher and can vary greatly depending on the fabric used and the amount of work done.

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Make My Day Creative

What is a slipcover? 

A slipcover is fabric that fits perfectly over a piece of furniture. Slipcovers are a fast and easy way to change the look of furniture without changing the structure or comfort. Think of it like having a suit custom tailored to fit you. Slipcovers can either fit like a glove or fit loosely, offering a shabby chic look. The ability to take off the slipcover and wash it helps to prolong the life and longevity of the cover, and makes it a great option for homes with children or pets. The slipcover offers you a simple way to change the color palette, and change it back again, as often as you like.

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Joan Behnke & Assoc.

Which should I choose?

There is no right answer as to which is the right choice. A lot depends on the quality of the furniture itself. Since reupholstering removes the original fabric completely, the core structure is already exposed making it easy to make repairs or changes. If the piece is in like-new condition, putting a slipcover over the piece results in a fresh look with less work and therefore a lower cost.

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Photo Courtesy of Duralee

If you are in the market for a new piece of furniture, reupholstering or investing in a slipcover can often be a cost effective way to a one-of-a-kind piece. Visit one of our design showrooms to browse a seemingly endless selection of fabrics and chat with one of our interior designers to get some ideas on how to achieve a completely custom piece of furniture for your home.

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