How to Sew Slip Covers for Chairs
Sewing a slipcover is a cost-effective way to give an old chair a new look and it can be done in one afternoon. Solid fabrics are easiest to work with when designing a slipcover because they eliminate the challenge of matching patterns or lines. It's also cheaper than detailed fabric; one of the least expensive fabrics available is 100 percent white cotton duck. Save even more money by buying entire bolts of fabric, which stores may offer at a discount. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Fabric
- Scissors
- Pins
- Needles
- Thread
- Sewing machine
- Iron or dryer
Instructions
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1
Measure the dimensions of the chair, beginning with the the back to figure out the height. Record the widths and heights of each arm, as well as the cushion dimensions. The number of pieces needed will vary depending on the type of chair being covered, but a standard chair will likely require six pieces.
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2
Drape the fabric over the back of the chair inside out so it reaches from the floor to the inner seat. Pin and cut it, leaving at least 1 1/2 inch for seams. Tuck the fabric into the crevices of the chair to guarantee enough for the finished product.
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3
Drape fabric from the inner cushion to the bottom of the front of the chair. Continue draping fabric around the rest of the chair, beginning at the inner cushion and guiding the fabric to the floor. Leave at least 1 1/2 inch on all sides to avoid cutting fabric too small.
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4
Measure and cut the fabric for cushions by laying the fabric on the floor, putting the loose cushion directly on top of it and cutting around it, allowing 2 inches for seams. Use this piece of fabric as a pattern for a duplicate; sew the two together inside out, leaving an opening in the back to easily turn it rightside out and slip the cover on and off.
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5
Darn all around each piece on the chair, removing pins along the way to create an outline. Carefully slip the cover off and take it to the sewing machine.
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6
Sew the inside back, side back and outside back sections together.
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7
Sew each arm section to the back section.
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8
Iron the slipcover or toss it in the dryer to remove wrinkles before being turned rightside out and slipped over the chair.
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Tips & Warnings
The more you wash and dry your slip cover, the softer it gets, creating a worn-in, cozy cottage look and feel.
Always leave extra room for seams; It's better to measure too long than too short.
Measure from corner to corner when working with cushions.
Measure from the highest point on each side of the chair all the way to the floor when working with sides, front and back.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
