How to Make Cushions for Lawn Chairs

Many time you will find that the base of the lawn chair will outlast the cushions. When this happens, don't throw the whole chair out, but make yourself some new cushions. Replacing either the whole lawn chair set or the cushions themselves can be quite expensive. By making your own, you'll not only be saving some money, but you'll be able to choose the type of fabric you desire to cover the cushions in. If you know how to measure and can do basic sewing, you can make your own lawn chair cushions.

Things You'll Need

• Outside fabric
• Foam rubber
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Sewing machine
• Heavy duty sewing machine needle
• Knife

Instructions

1. Measure the dimensions of your old cushions, if still available. If not, measure the area of the chair where the cushion will be sitting. You'll need these measurements when you purchase new foam rubber for the cushions and fabric to cover the cushions with. You will need the width, length and the depth measurements. Remember to add the extra inches of depth when figuring out how much fabric will be needed to cover the cushions with, as well as adding an extra inch for the seams. For instance, if your cushion is 24" wide x 24" long, with a depth of 5", your fabric panel will need to be 27.5" by 27.5".

2. Purchase your foam rubber and fabric at your local fabric or craft store. Foam rubber is generally sold in rolls where you will be able to buy just the amount you'll need to make your cushions. When purchasing your fabric, remember the chair will be outside living in the elements. It's best to consider purchasing fabric that's designed specifically for this purpose. Outside fabric is usually water resistant and can stand the UV rays of the sun. It will not only be easier to clean, but will last much longer than regular fabric that's not been treated.

3. Cut your foam rubber to the size of your measurements for the new cushions. The fabric store may cut them for you to the size you want, but be prepared to do the cutting yourself. If the edges are rough, don't worry because they will be concealed by the fabric once you cover them.

4. Cut out the fabric panels from which you will be making the cushion coverings. Remember to take into account the seams and the allowance for the depth of the cushion. Once you've cut your panels, pin them together with the right sides facing each other. Sew a seam around three of the sides and turn the fabric right side out.

5. Slip the piece of foam rubber cushion into the open seam. Turn the raw edge towards the inside and pin it together. Sew your last seam together, enclosing the cushion inside the fabric. Repeat this step until you've covered all the cushions of your lawn chairs. Place the new cushions in the chairs.