How to Repair a Porch Swing Lining

Keep the porch swing pretty and comfortable by repairing the lining if it rips.

Some porch swings have fabric linings, making them soft and comfortable. As with any pillow, cushion or fabric lining, porch swing linings may tear. Ignoring a small tear is a bad idea because it will probably keep getting bigger. It is better to repair the porch swing lining as soon as you notice a rip and keep the swing in good condition. Repairing this is the same as repairing other cushions and fabric linings.

Things You'll Need

• Fray solution
• Extra material (optional)
• Heavy-duty thread
• Upholstery needle
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Stop the fray of fabric or vinyl lining along the tear. Buy a liquid solution in a notions department and in sewing supply stores that you apply along the fraying edge. It dries within minutes to a clear, hard finish and prevents further fraying.

2. Place a piece of extra fabric or cover material inside the tear of the porch swing lining. If you do not have extra cover fabric, you may skip this step or use a fabric scrap that looks similar. The fabric scrap must be bigger than the tear and cover any stuffing that shows while the tear is still open.

3. Get a heavy-duty nylon thread in the same color as the porch swing lining. Thread an upholstery needle to repair lining. An upholstery needle is also called a mattress needle and is curved. Start at one end of the tear in the lining, pull thread through and knot. Continue to sew along the tear, and knot again when you reach the end of the rip in the lining.

Tips & Warnings

• If the cushion lining of the porch swing is detachable, consider turning it around so the scar from the repair is less visible.

References

• Craftzine: How-To: Mend Torn Upholstery
• Southern Living: Set Up A Porch Swing: Perfect for Socializing