Making Cushion Covers

Make a cushion cover for any size or shape pillow.

One reason to make a cushion cover is to help decorate a room. It adds a personal touch to furniture due to the range of styles and materials available. Yet new cushion covers don't have to be just a furniture decoration. Consider making cushion covers for pillows used for sitting on the floor, as they can make the floor more comfortable while playing a card game or watching TV. Or bring the covered cushions when you visit a stadium instead of sitting on uncomfortable bleachers. Making cushion covers is a simple project.

Things You'll Need

• Cushion
• Measuring tape
• Fabric
• Pins
• Scissors
• Fabric crayon or pencil
• Needle and thread or sewing machine

Instructions

1. Measure the cushion's width and length using a measuring tape. Purchase your desired fabric according to these measurements. Be sure to allow for at least one seam allowance.

2. Fold the fabric in half with the right side inside. Pin the sides together leaving one side open. Place the cushion through the fabric's open side.

3. 

   Gather all supplies before starting the project.

   Make sure the pinned sides fit tight against the cushion. Adjust the pinned fabric to fit accordingly. Cut off any excess fabric from the pinned sides. Mark with the fabric crayon where the pins should be placed for the open side. Remove the cushion from the fabric's opening and set aside.

4. Sew the two pinned sides together by using a needle and thread or a sewing machine. Once they are finished pull the fabric right side out through the open side. Place the cushion back inside the fabric pocket.

5. Pinch the last side closed and pin in place. If there is a large amount of excess fabric cut it off. Start from the fabric's tip and tightly role the fabric toward the cushion. Sew the small roll in place for a neat finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Sew a stitch of Velcro to the final connecting fabric sides. This will allow removing the cushion for cleaning or to change the cover pattern for a varied look.

• Use hemming tape instead of needle and thread to attach the cushion sides. Place the tape at each side's hems and iron shut.

• Decorate the cushion with iron-on appliques. Other decorating options are tassels, lace and ribbons, which can be attached by sewing or using fabric clue. Lace can also be attached with hemming tape.

• Remove the sewing pins when starting to sew the cover together. This will prevent being pricked by the pins while using the pillow.

References

• Make it and Mend it: How to Make a Cushion Cover