craftgrrl | Re-upholstering(?) furniture.

Having never lived completely alone before, i have never needed furniture. I am getting my very own, very own place next month, however, and therefore need some furniture. Being a penniless student, i will have to second-hand it. So if i find something affordable but fugly, how difficult would it be to cover it with different fabric? Would i be able to simply staple the new fabric onto the old? Or should i resign myself to abominable floral prints? Any tips, advice, etc. would be greatly appreciated.
Please and thank-you!
♥