Expert: Kirk Ryan - 7/13/2009

Question
I have six dining room chairs that I am assisting in reupholstering. The seat cushion is no problem for me. My problem is that I've never done a chair back like this.  Could you please give me some direction as to how to remove and redo the backs of these chairs?  I am not sure how they are attached and have not attempted to take them off yet.  It almost looks like they are a type of mini pillow that is stapled into the frame.  These have some give and do not seem to have any board inside them.  The fabric is visible through the back as well.  Also I am wondering if it is possible to redo this part of the chair without putting the welting back on it.  Also, is it best to remove the existing fabric or can I reupholster over it?
I am also willing to slightly change the look if there is an easier way to do these chairs.  I have more pictures if that would help out.
Any advice you can offer would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
It is recommended to remove the existing fabric when reupholstering.

Does the chair back have wooden pegs on the side of it? If so, you need to use a punch and break these pegs out. They will reveal a crucial bolt that is holding that back in.

If there are no pegs, you may just be dealing with glue and dowels, which is a bit trickier. You may want to seek professional help here, you don't want to break the chair or the dowels.