How to Sew an Outdoor Bench Cushion

Outdoor furniture may be purchased in a wide variety of styles and from a range of price points. Manufacturers often include outdoor cushions along with the purchase of chaise lounges, benches and seats. If you have purchased a piece of outdoor furniture that does not have an accompanying cushion, you may wish to create your own.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Matching thread
• Cording (optional)
• Foam or loose polyester stuffing
• Sewing machine
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Tape measure
• Craft paper or news paper
• Marker

Instructions

1. Choose a fabric. Several companies manufacture fabric for the specific purpose of outdoor use. These fabrics are made with different fibers, often with more nylon, polyester or chemical treatments that resist sun damage which can break down the integrity of the threads of the material.

2. Determine the initial yardage required by measuring the length and width of the piece receiving the cushion. Multiply this by two, allowing for the top and bottom pieces. Calculate any additional yardage necessary for optional cording.

3. Lay a piece of craft paper on the cushion area. Using a marker draw out around all edges, allowing for sides, arms or spindles. Fold the pattern exactly in half with the marked side out.

4. Trim the pattern. Folding it in half will allow you to have a perfect pattern. Lay the pattern on the fabric, folded in half . Pin the pattern to the fabric. Add at least 5/8 inch around the entire pattern for seam allowance. Cut out the pattern.
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5. If you are using optional cording, sew cording all the way around the first piece of fabric. Sew strips of fabric for ties, if desired. Match the top fabric piece to the bottom piece and sew, leaving an opening for the foam cushion or stuffing.

6. Insert the foam cushion, or batting inside. Sew the opening shut on the machine. Tie or lay cushion onto the furniture piece.

References

• eHow.com: Make Cushions for Patio Chairs
• ThriftyFun.com: Making Cushions for Wicker Furniture