About Cushion Slipcovers

Slipcovers are a popular and cheap method of decorating a room while protecting delicate pieces of furniture. They can be tailored to fit anything from a single cushion to an entire couch, and protect against undesirable elements ranging from dust to pet fur.

History

The term "slipcover" is relatively new, but the idea dates to the 17th century. Slipcovers were first used to cover delicate pieces of furniture to protect them against wear and tear. Delicate pieces such as silk were very costly and prone to damage. As the cover grew more popular and in demand, it branched out to other areas, including tailor-made pieces for couches.

Function

Slipcovers serve one of two functions, often both at the same time. The most obvious is to protect. If you have pets in your home or are using delicate fabrics, a slipcover will keep the dirt, hair and grime off your furniture. This will extend the life of the piece and make your home seem cleaner. Slipcovers are easy to care for because you can throw them in the washing machine without any hassle. The second function is to decorate. Some people use a slipcover as a cheaper way to reupholster their furniture. This saves money and completely changes the look of a room. Best of all, it's not permanent.

Considerations

Slipcovers completely transform a room. The best way to choose which kind to use is to consider what will be covered, and what is the existing pattern in the room. For cushion slipcovers, find a color that complements the couch or chair. Use a fabric that is machine washable and sturdy. Pick a color that will also match the other colors in the room. This will make the room look unified. Also consider using a cushion slipcover if you are buying furniture from a yard sale and have to buy the cushions separately.

Misconceptions

Some may think slipcovers are cheap or tacky, but a quality slipcover is anything but. The reason most slipcovers look unfinished is because they are poorly made. The trick is to keep them looking clean and have the person who sews it to get the seams even. It is also very important to measure properly to give a snug fit without being too tight or hanging loosely. Some of the best slipcovers make it almost impossible to tell whether they are a cover or the original fabric of the cushion. It's also important that the cushions match the rest of the furniture.

Potential

How can cushion slipcovers help in your own home? If you have pets or children, use them to protect your expensive furniture from messes. If you're decorating on a budget, this trick is great to save money and time. You can go through as many slipcovers as you want without ever changing the cushions themselves. Or get several different versions made, and switch them out with the season. You can also continue and make a cover for the rest of the furniture later on. Test the fabric on the cushions first, and proceed if you still like it a few weeks later.