How to Sew a Futon Cover

One of the easiest ways to sew a custom futon cover is to use flat sheets. Sheets come in a wide variety of colors and styles, and they’re large enough to cover the mattress without using any seams. Make sure to buy sheets that are the right size for the futon mattress you have. If you prefer, you can sew together pieces of fabric to make your own sheets. Measure the length of the futon mattress and check the width of the fabric to determine how much you’ll need. This futon cover closes with hook and loop tape (commonly sold under the brand name Velcro), but you could use buttons or ribbon ties for a more decorative look, or a zipper if you prefer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring tape
• Paper and pencil
• Two flat sheets
• Matching thread
• Scissors
• Straight pins
• Sew-on hook and loop tape
• Sewing machine

1. Measure the width and height of the futon mattress. Write these measurements down. Measure the thickness of the futon mattress. Divide this measurement in half and write it down.

2. Add 2-1/2" to each measurement.

3. Trim the sheets, if needed, to match the numbers from Step 2, to make sure the cover will fit snugly. Make sure to leave the hem (pre-finished edge) on one of the short ends of each sheet intact.

4. Place the sheets right sides together and pin them together along three sides, leaving the hemmed short ends open.

5. Sew the sheets together along three sides using a 5/8" seam allowance. Turn the sheets right-side out.

6. Cut strips of hook and loop tape about 3" long. Cut enough pieces to cover the open end of the cover, with no more than 3" between the pieces.

7. Position the hook sides of the pieces along one of the open edges and pin them to the sheet. Position the loop sides of the pieces along the other edge, making sure to line them up with the hook sides. Pin the loop pieces to the sheet.

8. Stitch around the edges of each piece of hook and loop tape. You may want to use a zigzag stitch if your sewing machine has one, so that the stitches will overlap the edges and hold the hook and loop tape in place.

9. Slide the cover over the mattress. Fasten the open end together using the hook and loop tape.

Tips & Warnings

• Some stores sell flat sheets separately, so you can buy just what you need. However, if you can only find sheets that come as a set, you can save the fitted sheet for when you use the mattress.
• Use caution when working with scissors, pins and sewing machines.

Resources

• Here's a technique for futon cover corners.