DIY Cushions

You can make cushions with a few tools.

Adding a cushion to a bench or chair can add softness to a room and create extra style and ambience in a space. You can make cushions by hand at home, which is a cost-effective alternative to purchasing similar items at a decorating store, where like items can be pricey. You just need some basic sewing materials and tools and, with some tips and know-how, you can easily create some cushions for your home.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Fabric
• Scissors
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Stuffing

Instructions

1. Measure the surface of a bench or chair that you want a cushion to sit on top of. Take down the measurements of the surface's height and width.

2. Fold a piece of fabric in half widthwise so you now have two layers of fabric. Cut out a shape that is the same height and width as the measurements you took, plus 1/8 inch for seam allowance. You should now have two identical panels of fabric.

3. Sew the two panels together on a sewing machine, keeping the right sides of the fabric facing each other. Create a seam that goes nearly all the way around the edge of the fabric. Leave a 1 inch hole open.

4. Turn the piece inside out through the 1 inch hole so the rough edges of the seams are on the inside and the smooth edge is on the outside.

5. Fill the cushion with cotton stuffing from a fabric store, using the hole to stuff. When full, stitch the 1 inch hole closed on the sewing machine.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a fabric in a color or pattern that matches the decor of your room.

• Make sure seams are sewn tightly to prevent fraying.

References

• Making Cushions Instructions: Alternative Windows