Replacing foam in vintage dining chairs

[Blank_Frame284]

My parents' old dining chairs from the 80s are still sturdy but the seats are flat as a board. I've got clamps, chisels, and other hand tools in the garage but I've never tried re-padding before. What's the most budget-friendly material to use?

 

[thehorsetowater]

I've done this with high density foam which you can buy off ebay. I put a felt pad on the top of the foam and a non-slip mat underneath. I made a few moisture holes in the seat of the chair to allow it to breath.
I covered them with a synthetic leather material and used staples to secure this.

 

[Vanya]

High density foam from a craft or upholstery store works well, and you can cover it with batting to soften edges. It’s easy to cut with a utility knife and attach with spray adhesive, old fabric scraps or a simple drop cloth can work as a cover if you’re keeping costs low

 

[Blank_Frame284]

Thanks for the advice on the foam and layering. I'm heading out to buy the supplies this week. Before I do, is 2-inch high-density foam thick enough for a dining chair, or do people usually go with 3-inch to keep from bottoming out?

 

[HerrFixIt]

If you haven't purchased anything yet, go with high-density polyurethane foam for budget and durability! Choose a high-density rating, like 2.5 PCF or higher, and a firm feel to keep it from flattening out. A 2" firm foam is generally thick enough for a dining chair and is the standard. Going to 3" often makes the seat too high for comfortable sitting at a table. For a clean cut, I suggest using an electric kitchen knife or a long serrated bread knife!