How to Decide How Much Fabric Is Needed to Cover Furniture

Modern sofa

A good couch tends to outlive its fabric. When this happens, consider creating a new slip cover instead of replacing the entire piece. Deciding the amount of fabric needed is as simple as a few measurements and a little math.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Calculator

Instructions

1. Decide which type of slipcover will be created. Typically, a slipcover will either cover the entire couch as a whole, or the frame and cushions separately.

2. Determine whether any decorative pillows will be covered.

3. Measure the couch starting at the back. Measure all lengths, widths and heights. If covering the cushions separately, measure all dimensions of the cushions and make note of how many there are total. If the couch has curves instead of straight edges, measure the longest space, as fabric can be cut back as necessary.

4. Determine the total surface area of the couch and cushions by multiplying the various lengths and widths together. For example, the back of the couch's surface area is measured by multiplying its length and height. Add up all of the surface areas for the total inches of fabric necessary.

5. Choose a fabric. Upholstery fabric typically measures 54 inches instead of the usual 44 inches of regular fabric. Upholstery fabric tends to last longer but typically costs more.

6. Determine the total fabric to purchase by using the following equation: Total surface area of the couch divided by the width of the fabric being purchased equals the amount of fabric to request in inches. To then convert the inches to yards, simply divide the total by 36. If choosing a fabric with a pattern that will need to go a particular direction, such as stripes, add an additional three to four yards to the total to allow for matching lines.

7. Count the total number of corners on the couch, since this is where seams will be placed. Add three inches for every corner as a seam allowance.

8. Round the total fabric to the nearest quarter-yard and purchase the fabric.