How to Make a Swing Cushion

Give your porch swing some extra comfort and color with a handmade cushion.

Sharing a porch swing is a traditional way to end the day, but a bare, hard swing seat may spoil a peaceful, romantic mood. A little fabric, some foam and your sewing machine will save your evening and add a pop of color to your porch or deck.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Foam padding
• Tracing paper or newsprint
• Denim or twill fabric
• Sewing machine

Instructions

1. Measure the swing's length and depth. Record these measurements, as you will need them twice during the project.

2. Cut the foam padding to match the swing seat measurements.

3. Measure the height of the foam. Record it with the measurements you made earlier.

4. Add 1 inch to the swing measurements. Draw a rectangle to match on the tracing paper or newsprint.

5. Add half the height of the foam to each side of the pattern rectangle. For example, if you've chosen 2-inch thick foam, add 1 inch to all four sides.

6. Fold the fabric in half and pin the pattern to it. Cut on the outside line to make two pieces.

7. Pin the fabric pieces together with the wrong sides facing each other.

8. Stitch along the two long sides and one short side, using a 1/2-inch seam allowance.

9. Insert the foam cushion through the open end.

10. Fold a 1/2-inch seam allowance on the open end to the inside. Hand-stitch the end closed.

Tips & Warnings

• Add a zipper to a short side to make your cover removable.

• Denim, twill and other heavy fabric will hold up to weather best. If you prefer a lighter fabric, treat it with fabric protector before making your cushion.

• Unless you make your cushion cover from vinyl, it may be damaged by rain or sun. Protect it from the elements with liquid or spray waterproof fabric protection.

References

• Textile Furnishings Marketplace: How to Make Swing Cushion and Rocking Chair Cushion