How Many Metres Of Fabric To Cover A 2 Seater Sofa

How Many Metres of Fabric to Cover a 2-Seater Sofa

Reupholstering a 2-seater sofa can be a cost-effective way to give it a fresh look and extend its lifespan. However, determining the amount of fabric required is crucial to ensure you have enough coverage without excessive waste. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you calculate the fabric yardage accurately:

Sofa Dimensions

Start by accurately measuring the length, width, and height of your sofa. Note down these measurements in meters or feet and convert them to inches if necessary. The length refers to the back of the sofa, the width to the distance between the armrests, and the height to the top of the back cushions.

Upholstery Type

The type of upholstery fabric you choose will affect the amount of fabric required. Heavier fabrics like velvet or leather require more fabric due to their thickness, while lighter fabrics like linen or cotton require less. Consider the thickness and texture of the fabric when estimating.

Pattern Repeat

If you're using a patterned fabric, check the pattern repeat, which indicates the distance between the repeat of the design. The pattern repeat is usually measured in inches or centimeters. You'll need more fabric if the pattern repeat is large and requires additional matching.

Estimating Fabric Yardage

Once you have all the measurements and factors considered, use the following formula to calculate the approximate yardage:

Length + 2 x Height + 2 x (Length + Width) = Fabric Yardage

For example, if your sofa is 72 inches long, 36 inches wide, and 32 inches high, the calculation would be:

72 + 2 x 32 + 2 x (72 + 36) = 288 inches

Converting inches to yards: 288 inches / 36 inches per yard = 8 yards

Additional Considerations

Remember that this is an approximate calculation. Add an extra 10-15% to account for shrinkage, cutting errors, and additional fabric for the underside of the sofa. If you're not confident in your measuring skills or want a more precise estimate, consider consulting an upholsterer or fabric professional for assistance.

Conclusion

Accurately determining the amount of fabric to cover a 2-seater sofa requires careful measurement, consideration of fabric type, and understanding of pattern repeats. By following the steps outlined above, you can calculate the fabric yardage approximately and ensure you have sufficient coverage for a successful reupholstery project.