Sewing a slipcover for an armchair is easier than you think! Watch this video for this DIY slipcover project:
Materials:
- Fabric: Textured chenille and popular cotton are recommended.
- Thread: Color-matching or complementary thread for sewing.
- Staples: For initial fitting and securing the fabric before sewing.
- Optional fasteners: If not hand-stitching, you can use:
- Decorative studs
- A zipper
- Seam allowance: Extra fabric (about 1 inch or more) for sewing seams.
Tools:
- Sewing machine: For assembling the slipcover.
- Scissors: For cutting fabric accurately.
- Measuring tape: To measure dimensions for cutting the fabric pieces.
- Staple gun: To temporarily hold the fabric in place during fitting.
- Pins or clips: To secure fabric pieces before sewing.
- Marker/chalk: For marking, cutting, and stitching lines.
- Hand sewing needle: For closing the back or making finishing touches.
- Iron: To smooth fabric and seams.
Optional:
- Cushion fabric: If you’re making a matching or contrasting cushion.
- Coordinating fabric: For unique designs or accents.
Steps to Upholster a Low-Sew DIY Slipcover:
1. Measure Your Furniture
- Use a measuring tape to take detailed measurements of your furniture:
- Width, length, and height of the seat.
- Height and width of the backrest.
- Height of armrests (if applicable).
- Add 2–4 inches to each measurement to account for hems and adjustments.
2. Choose and Prepare Fabric
- Select a fabric that matches your style and is durable enough for everyday use.
- Wash and iron the fabric to avoid shrinkage later.
3. Cut the Fabric
- Lay the fabric on a flat surface.
- Cut fabric pieces according to your measurements:
- Base: Covers the seat.
- Back: Covers the backrest.
- Arms: Individual pieces for the armrests, if present.
4. Create Hems (No-Sew or Low-Sew)
- Fold the edges of each fabric piece about ½ inch to create a clean hem.
- Secure the hems using fabric glue, iron-on hem tape, or a quick hand stitch.
- For a more durable hem, consider sewing with a straight stitch.
5. Attach Fabric to Furniture
- Drape the base fabric over the seat, ensuring it lies flat and snug.
- Use straight or safety pins to secure them, tucking excess fabric neatly.
- Attach the backrest fabric in the same way, pinning or tucking the fabric into crevices for a snug fit.
- If your furniture has arms, wrap the armrest pieces around and secure underneath or on the sides using Velcro or pins.
6. Adjust and Secure
- Make final adjustments to the draping for a polished look.
- For loose areas, use fabric ties, safety pins, or Velcro strips to hold the fabric in place.
- Add elastic bands or ties at the bottom edges to keep the cover taut if desired.
7. Optional Decorative Touches
- Add piping or trim using fabric glue for a tailored look.
- Use complementary fabric for contrasting accents, such as cushion covers.
Tips for Your DIY Slipcover:
- Choose a stretchy fabric for easier fitting and fewer adjustments.
- If you’re working with patterned fabric, match patterns at seams for a cohesive look.
- Test your no-sew adhesive on a scrap fabric to ensure it holds well.
This approach balances ease and functionality while allowing for creativity! If you’re comfortable sewing, tiny stitches in high-stress areas (like corners) can increase durability.