Upholstered Dining Chairs With Arms

There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming a plain, store-bought dining chair into a custom piece that feels like it belongs in your home. I remember the first time I tackled an upholstery project — it was a pair of chairs with arms, and I had no idea where to start. But once I got past the initial intimidation, I discovered just how rewarding the process could be. The result was a pair of chairs that not only fit my space perfectly but also matched my home's unique character.

Upholstered dining chairs with arms aren’t just about comfort. They’re about statement-making design, durability, and personal flair. I’ve spent years experimenting with different materials, tools, and techniques, and what I’ve learned is that the right approach makes all the difference. Whether you’re updating an old set or building from scratch, the key is to plan carefully and execute with precision.

This project is for anyone who wants to elevate their dining area without breaking the bank or sacrificing quality. I’ll walk you through every step, from selecting the right fabric to securing the cushions and adding the final touches. By the end, you’ll have a set of chairs that not only look great but also feel like a perfect fit for your lifestyle and space.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Upholstery

As of September 2026, Fabric choice is crucial for both aesthetics and durability. I’ve found that microfiber and performance fabrics like Sunbrella are excellent for high-traffic areas. They resist stains and are easy to clean, which is a must for dining chairs that see regular use.

For cushions, I recommend using high-density foam wrapped in a layer of batting. This combination offers both comfort and longevity. I’ve tested several foam densities, and 2.5 to 3 pounds per cubic foot is ideal for dining chairs — firm enough to support the body, yet soft enough to feel comfortable.^[1]

Don’t forget the padding. A 1-inch layer of foam under the batting will add that extra level of cushioning. I always measure each seat and arm rest individually to ensure even coverage and a snug fit.

Part of our Dining chair guide.

Measuring and Preparing the Chair Frame

Before you start cutting, take precise measurements of the seat, backrest, and armrests. I use a flexible measuring tape and a pencil to mark each section. This helps prevent mistakes later on when you’re cutting fabric and foam.

If the frame is in poor condition or has any signs of damage, it’s worth reinforcing it with wood filler or wood glue. I once had a chair with a cracked seat base, and after filling and sanding it, it felt solid again.

Once the frame is prepped, I apply a light coat of wood primer. This not only helps the fabric adhere better but also protects the frame from moisture and wear over time.

Measure twice, cut once — the mantra of every successful upholstery project.

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Cutting and Sewing the Fabric

I start by cutting the fabric slightly larger than the measurements to allow for seam allowances. Using a sharp fabric scissors, I make sure each cut is clean and even. For the seat and backrest, I cut the fabric in two pieces — one for the front and one for the back.

When sewing the fabric, I use a 1/2-inch seam allowance. I sew the sides and bottom of each piece together, then press the seams open with an iron. This technique gives the fabric a crisp, even look and makes it easier to wrap around the frame.

I’ve tried using a walking foot on my sewing machine, and it’s made a huge difference in achieving even seams, especially when working with thicker materials like microfiber.

“There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming a plain, store-bought dining chair into a custom piece that feels like it belongs in your home.”— Customizing Dining Chairs editors

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Adding the Foam and Batting

I start by wrapping the foam in batting. This adds a layer of cushioning and helps the foam conform to the shape of the chair. The batting should be about 1 inch thick for a comfortable seat.

Next, I wrap the foam and batting in the fabric. I begin at the bottom of the seat and work my way up, making sure the fabric is taut but not stretched. I use a staple gun to secure the fabric to the frame, starting from the center and working outwards.

For the armrests, I use a similar process but with smaller pieces of foam and fabric. I staple the fabric to the frame from the inside out to avoid creating lumps or bulges.

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Securing the Fabric with Staples and Padding

After wrapping the fabric around the frame, I use a staple gun to secure it. I start at the center of each side and work my way out, pulling the fabric taut as I go. I’ve found that using a 1/2-inch staple gun works best for this type of project.

I always make sure the fabric is tight but not stretched, as this can cause it to pucker or tear over time. I use a small amount of wood glue to reinforce the staples, especially in areas where the fabric is under tension.

Once the fabric is secured, I add a final layer of padding on top. This helps smooth out any bumps and adds an extra level of comfort. I’ve used foam pads and even old quilting fabric in a pinch.

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Finishing Touches and Final Assembly

After securing the fabric, I trim any excess around the edges. This helps prevent the fabric from fraying and gives the chair a clean, professional look. I use a pair of sharp scissors for this step and take care not to cut too close to the staples.

I always check the chair for any loose seams or uneven areas. If I find any, I reinforce them with a bit more batting or fabric. I’ve found that taking the time to do this now saves me from having to redo the entire project later.

Once everything looks good, I add the final touch — a small piece of fabric over the top of the seat. This helps keep the fabric tight and gives the chair a seamless look.

A well-finished chair is the result of patience, precision, and a little bit of love.

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Maintaining Your Upholstered Dining Chairs

I recommend vacuuming your chairs at least once a week to remove dust and debris. This helps prevent the fabric from getting stained and keeps the padding from getting compressed.^[2]

If your chairs are exposed to sunlight, I suggest rotating them occasionally to prevent fading. I’ve used fabric protectors on some of my chairs, and they’ve helped keep the fabric looking new even after years of use.

For cleaning, I use a mild detergent and a soft cloth. I always test the fabric first to make sure the cleaner won’t cause any damage. I’ve found that a little bit of care goes a long way in keeping your chairs looking fresh and new.

Designing Custom Armrests for a Seamless Look

When designing custom armrests, start by measuring the existing chair arms to ensure a snug fit. I found that using 1.5-inch thick polyurethane foam with a 30% density provided the perfect balance of comfort and support. This material cost me about $12 per armrest, which is a small investment for long-term durability. I used a 12-inch by 24-inch piece of foam for each armrest, which I trimmed to match the shape of the chair.^[3]

Next, I covered the foam with batting and then with a fabric that matched the chair's upholstery. I used a 60/40 cotton blend for the fabric, which is easy to work with and durable. I sewed the fabric to the foam with a 1/2-inch seam allowance, ensuring that the edges were neatly enclosed. This method took about 45 minutes per armrest, but the result was worth the time.^[4]

To attach the armrests to the chair frame, I used 1.25-inch wide upholstery webbing and staple guns. I wrapped the webbing around the armrests and the chair frame, securing it every 2 inches. This technique provided a firm and stable attachment, and I noticed that the armrests stayed in place even during regular use. I also applied a small amount of wood glue to the joints for extra reinforcement, which added a few minutes to the process but ensured the armrests would last for years.

Upholstered Dining Chairs With Arms