Easy Ways To Make Indoor And Outdoor Chair Cushion Covers
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Looking to replace the outdoor chair cushion covers on your outdoor patio, porch or deck seating? Outdoor furniture cushion covers can take a beating from the weather and every few years can use a refresh. Here are 5+ DIY Ideas that will show you how to make new covers for them, some of them dont even require sewing.
In this post I am sharing my step-by-step tutorials that will show you how easy it is to make new covers for those faded, time-worn, covered in bird droppings, outdoor chair cushions!
Even if your outdoor chair cushions are in good shape like mine are, covering them using any of my easy techniques will give you options to change the color and pattern for special occasions or just on a whim.
I wanted to cover my cushions since the solid off-white color gets dirty very quickly.
I found this fabric at JoAnn Fabrics. I waited to buy it until I had a 40% off coupon. It is indoor/outdoor fabric that is easy to clean and maintain.
The pillow back cushions were made using Solarium Rydell Summer. The fabric on the seat cushions is: Solarium Dazzle Ocean
I made these outdoor chair cushion covers the same way I made the covers for the cushions on my DIY slipcovered sofathat I used to have in my living room.
I call it semi-sewing where I still use a sewing machine, but skip the standard box cushion cover that usually has piping and a zipper.
The back cushions are simply big pillows that I made really simple covers for using one long length of fabric.
Is There A Risk To Dyed Cushion Covers
There is always some risk that comes with dyeing anything whether it be an outdoor cushion cover or your hair!
However, there arent any special risks when dying these fabric items as long as you follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure safety during this process.
Just make sure you do not leave the covers outside in direct sunlight after they have been dyed because this can cause damage to them due to sun exposure which may lead to fading over time .
Also keep in mind that if you are using a darker dye, it will take much longer to dry out and the risk of staining other objects in your home increases because this may cause them to bleed onto whatever is nearby.
No Sew Project: How To Recover Your Outdoor Cushions Using Fabric And A Glue Gun
March 3, 2018
Because we are in Southern California, were able to be outside most of the year. We do a lot of entertaining and much of it is on our patio. Its nice to change up the look of our patio furniture, and we can do so pretty regularly with just a little fabric and a glue gun I love a good no-sew project!
This is honestly the easiest project to do! If you can wrap a present, you can re-cover a cushion.
This post contains affiliate links.
Riley Blake Designs has some amazing fabrics and I knew this fun paisley inspired print was just the thing to bring a shot of color to my patio.
We recover our cushions regularly because they were looking a bit worn, but are still perfectly comfortable. Because we use a glue gun we can change the fabric as often as we like. The last fabric we had on our cushions was a black and white combo for a Halloween Party.
Start by measuring the widest part of the cushion and the sides. The width of the cushion was 25 and the sides were about 3 high. 25+3+3 = 31 then I add another 6 to ensure it will wrap around to the back. I cut a total length of 37 inches.
The next step is to pull the old fabric off of the cushion. The fabric always pulls off and the old glue sticks to the cushion. This allows me to toss the fabric into the washing machine and save it for future projects. I love that I am able to use these materials over and over again.
Take the cushion and center it on the new fabric.
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Garden And Patio Furniture Cushions
Gardens and patios are an extension of the home and you’ll want to find outdoor furniture that allows you to maximise this valuable living space. Whatever you choose needs to be soft and comfortable so you can relax and spend as much time outside as possible.
The soft furnishings and cushions you select can make a garden or patio feel homely and comfortable while also reflecting your taste and style. If you’re looking to breathe a new lease of life into tired garden and patio furniture, new cushions are a simple and cost-effective way to update your outdoor space in line with the seasons or latest decorating trends.
How Does Direct Sunlight Harm Patio Cushions
UV rays from the sun can cause your cushions to fade, especially if you live in a hot, dry climate where there are no regular breaks from sun exposure. Dont let your fab colors turn drab due to carelessness. Make sure to store cushions under some type of covering. You can also put them in patio storage boxes when not in use for short-term storage and easy access.
Warm weather and sunlight also means increased heat exposure. For long-term storage, put cushions in an indoor closet if possible, or somewhere with a steady temperature and humidity level. If cushions need to be stored in a shed or garage, put them in a breathable container to prevent trapping heat and moisture. If its a souped-up garage with heating and insulation, just store em near the fridge and below the TV.
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Recycled Plastic Outdoor Furniture
Plastic furniture doesnt have the same problem with moisture as wood furniture does since it doesnt absorb moisture. However, the frigid temperature in the winter tends to make plastic brittle enough for it to crack. One of the benefits of plastic furniture is that its lightweight and easy to maneuver. Additionally, most plastic furniture is easily stack-able. These great features of plastic patio furniture mean that its easier to store away if the weather gets really nasty.
Although outdoor furniture is designed to withstand extreme conditions, it is strongly advised to bring in your outdoor furniture when it snows. For all other conditions, try using furniture covers that protect your sectional and outdoor dining sets from the elements while allowing proper ventilation to prevent mildew. When these best practices are followed, outdoor furnishing can last for many years.
5 Piece Brasserie Arm Dining Set $929.00
Outdoor Cushions A Quick Fix To Improve Your Outdoor Area
makeover doesn’t have to be expensive or extensive a small change can go a long way. By adding, removing or switching out the small things, you can create a whole new look for your balcony, garden or patio.
Adding some cosy outdoor seat cushions and fluffy outdoor pillows can transform an outdoor sofa from a simple piece of furniture to a striking design statement. Decorating with fabrics and colours is a great and cost-effective way to refresh and update your décor.
Some cushions have removable, and replaceable covers. These models make it even easier to switch up your style. Find replacement covers in an alternate colour to update the look without having to buy an all-new cushion set. Or get duplicates in the same style to keep your outdoor room looking fresh as time goes on.
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How To Take Care Of Chair Cushion Covers
One question I always receive when I post about outdoor cushions and pillows is: Do you cover your outdoor furniture when not in use? In the past I have tried using vinyl covers, but found it is easier to just bring the cushions inside my house when not in use. It is not ideal and I am currently looking into purchasing this outdoor cushion storage box. Does anyone have one of these or something similar? Does it make it handy to store cushions in when not in use and easy to retrieve when you want to use them?
If your outdoor chair cushions are in good shape and just need a little sprucing up, check out this post: How To Clean Outdoor Patio Cushions
Im Going To Show You Step
Making new covers made my outdoor furniture look brand new again!
I purchased this set at Target years ago. It came with several pieces and the price was right, only then it was white with light green cushions.
Since then its had two wardrobe changes, not including this one, and a new paint job. I give it another light coat of spray paint each summer to freshen it up.
Maybe some day Ill get a new set, but when it still looks this good, why bother?
The before was really just so saddownright embarrassing:
And the deckgross! Not to worry though, I spent the past three days out there. A little demo and lots of elbow grease and its looking so much better. How does it end up like this??
UPDATE: You can see the deck HERE now!
Ok so here we go!
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Where To Store Patio Furniture And Cushions
Leaving your patio furniture and cushions unprotected can lead to damage so you are doing the right thing if you are planning to store them. But there are some things to take into consideration. Like where to store them? Maybe you dont have enough room in your garden shed or you just dont know if its okay to leave them outside during rainy days. Well, you came to the right place, because in this article we will be covering this topic.
Adding Filling And Closing Cushion
Step 1
Use silk film and cover the cushion on all sides. This is done so that it will be easier to insert the cushion into the cover later on.
Step 2
Using a vacuum, compress the pillow insert until its reduced into half its former size.
Step 3
Insert the cushion with the vacuum still on. Once done, you can turn off the vacuum and watch the pillow slowly expand. You can leave the silk film inside to render your cushion water resistant.
Step 4
To sew the opening, create a folded hem to simulate the rest of the sides of the cushion. Fold the fabric in along with the edges of the fabric and start sewing about ½ from the corner and 3/8 from the folded edge. With the fiber fill stuffing closing, sewing up the opening is not too difficult.
And your cool pillow is done!
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How Do I Protect My Patio From Wind
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How To Make Outdoor Chair Cushion Covers
At the end of this post you will find a listing all my cushion cover posts so you can choose which one will work the best for the seating cushions in your home.
If you are a seamstress or simply a better sewer than I am, then I know you will have your own way of making boxed style cushion covers for seating cushions.
I never learned to sew like a pro. The only instruction I received was in 7th grade Home-Ec class where we didnt learn a lot, only how to make an unflattering skirt that the teacher made everyone in the class make. 🙂
For anyone who may be saying, I cant sew or I dont have the time, I know you can do it and maybe seeing all the different types of cushions I have made may inspire you and give one a try.
supplies needed:
- straight pins
- Scissors
1. Measure your cushion and determine how much yardage you will need. I usually eyeball this and look at the whole process as if I were wrapping a gift box with wrapping paper.
2. Lay cushion on a small table or stool. Place fabric right side down on cushion. This allows the fabric to hang down so you can easily work on all four corners.
3. Bring two sides of the fabric together at one corner. Use straight pins to fit the fabric to the corner. This will become a seam. Repeat on the other 3 corners of the cushion.
4. Cut away excess fabric at each corner, leaving about 2 inches of fabric away from line of pins.
5. Remove fabric from cushion and sew all the seams on a sewing machine. Turn fabric right side out.
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What If My Cushions Are Exposed To Daily Morning Dew
If you have protective, water-resistant covers on your outdoor cushions and the morning dew is minimal, you may not see them taking damage. However, its still best to store them somewhere dry and temperature-controlled overnight, just to be safe. Moisture of any kind can lead to mildew and mold, as well as attract pests. No, thank you!
Can You Dye Outdoor Cushion Covers
Yes, you can dye outdoor cushion covers. If the cushions are natural colors, you will need to use Rit Dye in your desired shade.
If they have been stained from weathering or other factors, it may be impossible to remove those stains and only help them fade with time as well as proper cleaning techniques such as using diluted dish soap on them regularly.
However, if this is not an option for you either because of cost or time constraints then there is no reason why using dye would negatively impact the condition of these types of items that we place outside all year round even during winter months!
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Sewing Mattress Style Seam
Step 1
Sew the mattress style stitch along all sides and even in the corners of the cushion cover. To do this, fold the fabric out flat along each seam and try to position the seam at the extreme center edge of the folded assembly.
Step 2
Position the assembly so the stitch starts about ½ away from the sides corner and about 3/8 away from the folded edge.
Step 3
To keep the first seam centered correctly, sew a few inches then bury the needle and make adjustments to the assembly and repeat.
Step 4
When you reach the next corner, stop about a ½ away and do some reversing. To move on to the next edge, we will not even cut the threads but we will simply remove the needle from the fabric, lift the flute, reposition the assembly and sew on to the next corner.
Step 5
Once the plate and boxing are sewn and now we can move on to the opposite side. When sewing this, do not finish or sew the side that is left open for the insertion of the foam or pillow insert. It will be sewn shut in a later step. And now we are ready to insert the cushion.
What Is The Best Material For Patio Furniture Covers
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Fire Pit Chairs For The Perfect Patio Set
Nothing says summer like spending time in your outdoor space. But before you and your family can enjoy sipping coffee on your porch, barbecuing on your patio, or roasting smores around your backyard fire pit, you’ll need to start by cleaning patio furniture first.
So to help you keep your patio furniture in pristine condition, we’re highlighting the best ways to clean metal, fabric, wood, and plastic outdoor furniture.
Enjoy Total Peace Of Mind With Thecushion Factory Guarantee
There are 9 very good reasons why you should trust Cushion Factory with your custom made cushions. From a lifetime guarantee on workmanship through to keeping in regular communication throughout the process, you will have complete peace of mind with your cushion ordering experience.
DISCOVER THE DETAILS:
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Four: Gather The Fabric
If the cushion is going to have corners, sew in gathering stitches for the 4″ of seam line surrounding each corner on both pieces of fabric. Place the foam piece on top of each piece of fabric individually, with the fabric wrong side up. Adjust the stitches so that they line up with the angles of the cushion but leave about a quarter inch of extra space.