Hi there,

I have 2 large couches each with 3 square-ish cushions on them 85x87cm plus backs .
I was quoted around $2000 each to have them recovered etc which I just cant afford. So I thought I would give it a go myself as pretty simple, boxy design. I can buy material for around $500, new endurofoam for around $1400 - so now I just need a seamstress to recover the cushions for me. Does anyone know anyone who will just sew these 'cushion covers' for me? As soon as one says the words 'upholster' they add a thousand bucks more when really, it is just a cushion cover!. Any replies greatly appreciated.

Tara Van Huizen 0410 451 989, has a studio in Abbotsford and does all sorts of alterations including furnishings as well as being a dressmaker.

Are you saying that you only want to make covers for the cushions, NOT to the rest of the sofa?? What do you mean by "plus backs"??
I can't believe the figures that you were quoted (if it's only for the cushions)! Even if you specified that you wanted a fancy piping on all edges of each cushion ... unless it's the whole sofa, cushions, backrest, armrests, bottom, front, sides, the lot!
If the quotes did include backrest, what do you do with the armrests etc - just leave them uncovered???

JLD...thanks so much for that. Will give her a call
Lex - the back does also have straight cushions. The side has a small round cushion/bolster. It is a wooden sofa with just cushions at the back. Not fancy, no piping at all ... I will give the lady a call that JLD recommended.... I should really have posted a photo....

Oooooh, of course ... I was simply picturing my own sofas (no separate cushions at the back) ...

Just to let you know that I was recommended to an upholsterer in Highett by a friend. So I had Ellie (a guy) from Ellies Upholstery around to quote. He offered very helpful, constructive advice. So bearing in mind I was being quoted $4000 to recover/replace foam on my couches, he quoted around $2400 using fabric he imports himself and a foam which has a 10 year warranty which he says will be good for 15 years plus. We went to his shop today, (354 Highett Road, Highett tel: 9532 0730). However we decided on a Warwick fabric instead which changed the price to $2640. So we will end up with virtually 2 new couches which will last another 25 + years, I am quite sure as we will now have reversible cushions and zip off covers which we can handwash. So I wont go the d.i.y route anymore! (having said that, he would cut and sell foam and fabric by themselves as well). In his shop, you can see furniture he has restored himself and which he has for sale. Actually just seen he has a website...www.elliesupholstery.com.au ... so hopefully this helps someone.