[commodor47]

I had my sofa reupholstered a few years ago. The armrests on my sofa are secured by 2 screws through a long, narrow piece of plywood which extends all the way up the front of the armrest, and are hidden under the fabric. In my case, the fabric was held in place by many staples. It may take some careful looking, but you should be able to find out how the fabric is attached along the left and right front areas of the center skirt. Once those 2 screws are removed you should be able lift up the arm rest.

Dick