How to Make a Slipcover for Your Couch

If you have kids or pets, then you know what they can do to your sofa. However, you can make a simple slipcover that will not only protect your couch but disguise any flaws whenever friends and family visit. It is made from outdoor fabric that makes it both stain- and moisture-resistant, and you will be able to remove it for cleaning.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Outdoor fabric
• Electric scissors (optional)
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• Sewing pins
• Upholstery pins

Instructions

Measuring Accurately

1. Start by measuring the inside and outside of the front, back and arms of your sofa. Add an additional 5 inches for tucking and hemming the bottom of the slipcover.

2. Purchase enough outdoor fabric for your project at a fabric store. Today's outdoor fabrics are soft and beautiful and come in an array of colors. Remember to buy matching thread while you are at the store. Fabric stores also carry electric scissors. They are not required for this project, but they do make it easier to cut thick fabrics.

3. Lay the fabric out on a large flat surface such as the floor. The slipcover will be all one piece so you only will be cutting one piece that will fit over the entire front, sides and back of the couch. Use the measurements that you took earlier to cut the correct size.

4. After the fabric has been cut, lay it out flat again on the floor. Turn under and pin a 5/8-inch fold along the entire edge of the fabric. Thread the sewing machine with the matching thread and sew along the pinned edge of the fabric with a simple stitch.

5. Place the slipcover on the couch and adjust the fabric so it is even on all sides. Tuck the slipcover inside the back and sides of the couch. To keep the slipcover from coming off, place upholstery pins inside where the fabric is tucked. If you have a curved arm couch, you also can place pins under the outside of the arm to keep the fabric in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Sew matching pillows and a tablecloth to add a more cohesive look to your room.

References

• How to make a slipcover