How to Spruce Up an Inexpensive Couch - On a Shoestring Budget
We've all been there. You find an absolute steal on a couch - it's affordable, the right size for your space, and has decent bones. But the fabric looks a bit dull and dated, and the cushions have seen better days. While you don't want to spend a fortune revamping a budget couch, with some creativity and elbow grease, you can give it a whole new look.
First, let's start by taking a closer look at the couch itself. Carefully inspect the overall condition and structure to determine which improvements will have the biggest impact. Are the cushions lumpy and misshapen? Does the fabric have unsightly stains or tears? Take notes on flaws that detract most from the couch's appearance.
Simple Surface Spruce Ups for Under $100
If your inexpensive couch is structurally sound but looks dull or dated, small cosmetic changes can work wonders. With a minimal budget and effort, you can give your couch a fresh new look.
Slipcovers
Slipcovers are an easy and affordable way to overhaul the look of a couch for under $100. When fitted properly, a slipcover can hide worn fabric, dated patterns, and other imperfections. Select a sturdy cotton fabric that complements your room's color scheme. Measure carefully and custom-fit the slipcover to your couch for a smooth appearance. With the right slipcover, you can revitalize a thrift store find or flea market bargain.
Throw Pillows
Nothing updates a couch like some new throw pillows! For just $20-30, you can get 4-6 colorful and patterned throw pillows to give your couch a whole new vibe. Mix and match pillows in complementary hues. Place them at the corners and center to frame the couch. Pro tip: choose pillows approximately 1/3 the length of your couch for ideal proportions.
Cozy Throw Blankets
You can never go wrong draping a few plush throw blankets over your couch. Layer different textures like wool, chenille, and cashmere for an inviting look. Drape them over the arms and back for easy access while watching movies. Throw blankets disguise worn areas and make inexpensive couches look luxe.
Reupholstering and Cushion Refresh
If your bargain couch has rips, stains, or terribly outdated upholstery, reupholstering may be worth the investment. Professionally reupholstering a couch costs around $600, but results in a couch that looks brand new. If you're handy, reupholster it yourself following online DIY guides. You can choose exciting new fabric to customize the look.
Sagging, lumpy cushions can also be refreshed. If possible, remove and replace the old stuffing with new filler that's properly fluffed. Or you can add layers of dacron wrap and quilt batting to plump them back up.
Structural Improvements for Better Ergonomics
Legs and Feet
Replacing squat square legs with sleek, tapered round ones can completely transform a boxy couch. For a few hundred dollars, new wood or metal legs can modernize the look and feel. Make sure to use proper adhesives and reinforcements to attach new legs securely.
Armrests
Over time, upholstered armrests flatten and sag. Reupholster armrests in fresh leather or fabric to restore support and style. Customize the height and shape with extra foam to improve arm alignment.
Painted Couch Makeovers
With the right prep and painting technique, you can transform even the drabbest couch with vivid paint. Lightly sand and use bonding primer so the paint adheres to the fabric. Start with a small accent wall or paint the entire frame a bold color. Add fun geometric patterns or even a custom mural for artistic flair!
Inspiring Budget Couch Makeovers
To recap, let's look at some inspiring before-and-after couch makeovers. With a bit of imagination and some budget-friendly tweaks, people have given new life to thrifted couches and curbside finds. A dated floral sofa gets a boho look with throw pillows and a macrame blanket. Mismatched retro couches are unified with custom upholstery into a midcentury modern sectional. What imagined transformations will you create?
To keep your refreshed couch looking its best, be sure to care for your makeover materials properly. Follow washing instructions for slipcovers and blankets. Vacuum and spot treat upholstery regularly. Use furniture polish to clean painted surfaces gently. With some TLC, your budget-friendly couch makeover will continue sparking joy for years to come!
Revamping a bargain couch takes creativity, effort and patience, but the savings and satisfaction are so rewarding. Hopefully these inexpensive makeover ideas have inspired you to see beyond any couch's flaws to create your dream living room centerpiece. Let your ingenuity run wild to design a custom couch that fits your style, space and budget.