Couch Uses

• Breathe new life into a battered and broken down couch with some extra cushioning and a new slipcover. If the couch feels uncomfortable or the springs are poking through, use quilt batting and quilt stuffing to give the couch more padding. Cover the torn or dirty fabric with sheets, old quilts, new fabric or any other type of fabric you have on hand.
  
  

Reuse the Fabric

• Old couches can still be in good condition. Check the fabric carefully, looking for signs of damage or dirt. If the fabric is still in good condition, remove it. Use a craft knife to gently cut through the fabric. Cut along the frame of the couch, pulling the fabric off in large sheets. Use larger pieces to make new curtains, valances or window dressings for your home. Smaller pieces can be used for a set of throw pillows for a bed or new couch.
  
  

Stuffing Uses

• If your older couch dates to 1988 or later, save the padding and foam cushioning for future craft projects. Before 1988, some couches were made with hazardous materials that were susceptible to fire. You shouldn't use the stuffing from older couches in crafts or other projects. Use safe stuffing and padding to fill throw pillows, stuffed animals and other decorative items you make. You can even use the stuffing inside weather-resistant fabric and make cushions for use outside.
  
  

Donation

• For old couches that are still in good condition, consider donating the couch to a charity or organization in your area. Shelters and youth organizations often need furniture in good condition. Contact schools in your area that might have a need for the wood and fabric on the couch. You can also donate the couch to a thrift store or organization with its own store. Tax write-offs are sometimes available for such donations.