How to Redo the Pillows on Your Couch

Create new options for your couch pillows.

From small-sized throws to more expansive cushions, your couch pillows are a decorative accent that can change the overall feel of your room's visual aesthetic. Redoing the pillows on your couch is a simple way to update your living or family room's look without breaking the bank. Instead of investing in an entirely new sofa, recover the pillows for a completely different look. Go from soft florals to bold solids for a more contemporary update, or choose a different weight of fabric to match the changing seasons.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Fabric
• Scissors
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Self-adhesive Velcro fastener or similar product

Instructions

1. Remove the cover from your existing couch pillow. This step is only necessary if you have a pillow with a cover that comes off. If your pillow does not have a Velcro, snap, button, zip or pull off layer, simply use the pillow as is.

2. Take precise measurements of the height and width of your pillow. Remember that these will not be the true measurements for your pillow cover. The depth or fullness of your pillow will add inches to the overall size. For example, if your pillow measures 10 inches tall by 15 inches wide and is at least 4 inches full in its middle or most fluffy spot, a simple 10-by-15-inch cover will be too snug to fit around the whole cushion. Add at least 1/4 inch on all sides for finishing the edges plus approximately another 2 inches to make the cover large enough to fit over the existing pillow.

3. Choose a decorative fabric that is different from the style that is currently on your couch pillows.

4. Measure and cut your chosen fabric to the pillow's dimensions. Cut two pieces, one for each side.

5. Fold in each edge 1/4 inch, one at a time. Sew using a straight type of stitch to finish the edges.

6. Line the two pieces of fabric up with the print or colored sides facing out. Sew, using a straight stitch, along three of the edges. Leave the fourth side open.

7. Cut two pieces of self-adhesive Velcro, or a similar product, to fit the fourth side. Peel the packing off the Velcro. Attach each piece near the edges of the open side as a closure.

8. Stuff your pillow into the cover. Push the Velcro together to seal in the pillow.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not feel confident in your sewing abilities, use an all-Velcro method as an easier option.

• For a truly simple way to redo your couch pillows, choose a totally no-sew method. Purchase designer looking pillow covers at a home supply or linen store. Remove your pillows from their old covers and stuff into the new store-bought ones.

• Instead of buying pricey fabric, try a low-cost alternative. Use dish towels, bath towels or even a bed sheet to complete your pillow cover.

• Bulky or fluffy pillows may present a challenge in terms of fitting a cover to the cushion. The filling inside of the pillow may shift around, making accurate measurements difficult to gauge. You may need to add extra inches to your measurements or prepare to re-stitch your handiwork, making several attempts to find the proper fit.

References

• Digs Magazine: Make a Throw Pillow Cover
• Cottage Magpie: How to Sew a Throw Pillow Cover in 10 Easy Steps
• Woman's Day: Decorative Throw Pillows Craft Project

Resources

• All Crafts: Sewing