How to Make a Fabric Chair Pad

Whether your chair pads are worn out and in need of replacement or you're just changing your decor, new chair pads can breathe new life into a room. Purchasing new ones can be pricey and you can't always find what you're looking for in stores. Fabric chair pads are not difficult to make. If you know basic sewing techniques, can use a pair of scissors and can measure, you can make your own. Read on for some tips in making new ones.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Scissors
• Foam Rubber
• Thread
• Measuring Tape
• Sewing Machine

Instructions

Tips on Making Chair Pads

1. Measure your old chair pads, if you still have them. If not, measure the area of the chair to be covered. Measure the width and the length, adding several inches to all sides to allow for seam allowances and the foam padding. Take into account how thick your foam pad will be when measuring. For instance, if your chair pad is 14 by 14 inches and your pad is 2 inches thick, you'd need two fabric panels that are 17 by 17 inches.

2. Buy your fabric and foam rubber at your local fabric or craft store. You will find a vast array of different fabric colors and styles to suit your needs. You might be able to purchase blank foam chair pads already cut to size. If you cannot, you'll have to have the foam cut from a big roll by a store worker. Remember to purchase any other supplies you'll need while you're at the store.

3. Cut your fabric to the desired size, as well as your foam rubber for the chair pad. Don't worry if your foam pad looks ragged on the edges where you cut it. The fabric will cover it.

4. Place your fabric panels right sides together. Pin the panels together. Sew three of the sides together with a 1-inch seam, leaving the fourth side open. This is the side where the chair pad will be inserted. Turn your panel right side out.

5. Insert your piece of foam rubber into the fabric through the open seam. Fold the raw edge toward the inside and pin together. Sew the seam closed. Repeat these steps until all your chair pads are completed. Place your new pads on the chairs. Enjoy how great they look.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a fabric that is durable and easily cleaned, if chair pads will be heavily used. Spraying a fabric protector on the chair pads will help keep them clean longer and will protect them from stains.