How to Make Arm Chair Covers: A Complete Guide to Refresh Your Furniture Stylishly

Do you have an old armchair that needs a little TLC? Maybe it’s seen better days, or you just want to refresh your living space without breaking the bank. Making your own armchair covers can be a fun and creative solution that not only protects your furniture but also adds a personal touch to your home.

Key Takeaways

• Protect and Refresh: Armchair covers safeguard your furniture from damage while significantly updating your living space’s decor.
• Cost-Effective Solution: Instead of replacing old furniture, creating custom covers offers a budget-friendly alternative that revitalizes your chairs.
• Material Matters: Selecting the right fabric, such as cotton, polyester, or stretch options, is crucial for comfort, style, and durability.
• Precise Measurements: Accurate measurements of your armchair ensure a snug fit for your covers, maximizing both protection and aesthetics.
• Customization Options: Personalize your armchair covers with patterns, embroidery, or embellishments for a unique touch that reflects your style.
• Maintenance Made Easy: Most armchair covers are machine washable, making routine cleaning straightforward and ensuring your covers stay looking fresh.

Understanding Arm Chair Covers

Armchair covers serve multiple purposes. They protect your chairs from stains, wear, and tear. They also offer an easy way to update your décor. You can choose from various fabrics, colors, and patterns, making it simple to match your interior style.

Benefits of Arm Chair Covers

• Protection: Armchair covers guard against spills, scratches, and pet damage. This extends the lifespan of your furniture.
• Aesthetics: Change the look of your chair with minimal effort. A fresh cover can transform a room.
• Cost-Effective: Instead of buying new furniture, invest in covers. They’re often much cheaper and provide similar visual results.
• Easy Maintenance: Most covers are machine washable. This makes upkeep straightforward and hassle-free.

Selecting the Right Material

• Cotton: Soft and breathable, cotton provides comfort. It’s also easy to clean.
• Polyester: Durable and wrinkle-resistant, polyester is great for busy households.
• Linen: Offers a natural look and feel. However, it may require more care.
• Stretch Fabric: Fitted and flexible, stretch options conform to different chair shapes.

Determining the Size

Measure your armchair to ensure a proper fit. Note the following dimensions:

• Width: Measure across the seat.
• Depth: Measure from the front to the back.
• Height: Measure from the ground to the highest point.
• Arm Height: Measure from the seat to the armrest.

This information helps you select the right size cover, ensuring it fits snugly without excess fabric.

Customization Options

You can personalize your armchair cover. Consider these ideas:

• Patterns: Choose bold prints, subtle textures, or solid colors to match your style.
• Embroidery: Add initials or designs for a unique touch.
• Piping or Trimming: This can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your cover.

1. Clean Your Chair: Remove dust and dirt to prepare for the cover.
2. Align the Cover: Position the cover over the chair, ensuring the label indicates the back.
3. Smooth the Fabric: Pull any wrinkles and adjust the fabric for a snug fit.
4. Secure with Ties or Straps: If the cover features ties or straps, secure them to prevent slipping.

By understanding these key aspects of armchair covers, you can make informed decisions that benefit your home and personal style.

Materials Needed

Gathering the right materials is crucial for making effective armchair covers. The following sections outline the essential fabric types and additional supplies required for your project.

Fabric Types

Choosing the right fabric ensures durability and style. Consider these common options:

• Cotton: Soft and breathable, cotton offers a range of colors and patterns. It’s easy to wash and maintain.
• Polyester: This fabric is strong and resistant to wrinkles and fading. It’s ideal for busy households.
• Linen: Linen provides a natural look and feel. It’s lightweight but may require more care than other fabrics.
• Stretch Fabric: Stretch fabric molds to your chair’s shape. It’s a versatile choice that adds comfort and ease of fitting.

Select a fabric that suits your taste and complements your living space.

Additional Supplies

Along with fabric, you’ll need a few more items to complete your armchair cover:

• Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements ensure a proper fit. Measure the width, height, and depth of your armchair.
• Sewing Machine: A sewing machine simplifies the construction process. If you lack one, hand-stitching works too.
• Thread: Choose thread that matches your fabric for a seamless look. Use heavier thread for sturdier fabrics.
• Fabric Scissors: Sharp scissors improve cutting accuracy. They help create clean edges for your cover.
• Pins: Use pins to secure fabric pieces before sewing. This prevents misalignment during the stitching process.
• Iron: An iron smooths out fabric wrinkles. It also helps press seams for a professional finish.

By gathering these materials, you’re set to create beautiful and functional armchair covers.

Measuring Your Armchair

Measuring your armchair accurately ensures a perfect fit for your covers. Follow these steps to obtain precise measurements for your project.

Accurate Measurements

1. Width: Measure across the widest part of the seat. This usually includes the armrests.
2. Depth: Measure from the front edge of the seat to the back.
3. Height: Measure from the floor to the highest point of the backrest.
4. Arm Height: Measure from the seat to the top of the armrest.
5. Arm Width: Measure the width of the armrest itself to ensure coverage.
6. Seat Cushion Thickness: For added comfort, measure the thickness of the seat cushion.

Make sure the measurements are in the same unit, either inches or centimeters, to avoid confusion. Always double-check each measurement for accuracy.

Designing a Pattern

Designing your pattern starts with a clear layout based on your measurements.

1. Create a Template: Sketch the armchair’s shape on paper or use a digital tool. Include all dimensions.
2. Add Seam Allowances: Incorporate 1-2 inches for seams to ensure the fabric fits well.
3. Consider Style: Decide if you want a loose fit or a snugger style. A looser fit is easier to put on and take off.
4. Incorporate Details: Add design elements like piping, pockets, or ties into your pattern for a custom look.
5. Test with Muslin: Use inexpensive muslin fabric to create a mock cover. This allows you to test fit and adjust before cutting your final fabric.

By following these steps, you’ll tailor your armchair cover to your specifications, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.

Sewing Instructions

Follow these sewing instructions to create your armchair covers easily and effectively. This section breaks down the process into manageable steps.

Cutting the Fabric

1. Measure accurately. Use your previously gathered measurements to ensure proper fit.
2. Lay out the fabric. Place it on a flat surface, ensuring it’s wrinkle-free.
3. Cut each piece. Use fabric scissors to cut according to your pattern, remembering to add seam allowances—typically 1 inch for seams.
4. Mark the fabric. Use tailor’s chalk to mark any necessary notches or design elements like pockets or buttons.

1. Pin the pieces together. Align the edges of each fabric piece and secure them with pins to prevent shifting.
2. Sew the seams. Use a sewing machine to stitch along the pinned edges. Use a straight stitch for standard seams and a zigzag stitch on edges to prevent fraying.
3. Reinforce corners. For extra durability, sew an additional stitch on corners and high-stress areas.
4. Turn the cover inside out. Carefully flip the assembled cover so the seams are inside, creating a neat finish.
5. Fit the cover. Place the cover on your armchair to check for proper fit. Make adjustments if necessary, then press with an iron for a crisp finish.

By following these instructions, you’ll successfully create stylish and functional armchair covers that enhance your home decor.

Finishing Touches

Adding final details enhances the look of your armchair covers. Consider personalization and care instructions to ensure lasting satisfaction.

Adding Trim or Embellishments

Adding trim or embellishments can elevate your armchair covers. Choose from various options, such as:

• Piping: Sew piping along the edges for a tailored look. It adds a pop of color and defines the shape.
• Fringe: Attach fringe for a playful touch. It creates movement and adds dimension.
• Fabric Flowers: Sew fabric flowers onto the cover. This adds a whimsical element to any design.
• Buttons: Use decorative buttons as accents. They may provide charm and character while ensuring functionality.

Experiment with combinations. Lay your chosen trim against the fabric to visualize the final look before sewing.

Care Instructions

Proper care ensures your armchair covers last. Follow these guidelines for maintenance:

• Washing: Check the fabric’s care label. Most cotton and polyester covers are machine washable. Use cold water for lasting color.
• Drying: Air dry or tumble dry on low heat. High heat can shrink your covers.
• Ironing: Iron on a low setting if needed. This removes wrinkles and keeps the cover looking fresh.
• Spot Cleaning: For stains, act quickly. Use a damp cloth with mild detergent to treat spills.

Establish a routine for maintaining your armchair covers. Regular care extends their lifespan and keeps them looking great.

Conclusion

Making your own armchair covers is a fun and rewarding project that can breathe new life into your furniture. With just a few materials and some creativity you can transform your living space while protecting your chairs from wear and tear.

Remember to take your time measuring and cutting the fabric for the best fit. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different patterns and embellishments to truly make the covers your own.

By following the steps outlined in this guide you’ll not only save money but also enjoy a sense of accomplishment every time you see your refreshed armchairs. Happy sewing and enjoy your stylish new covers!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of making my own armchair covers?

Making your own armchair covers allows you to personalize your space, protect your furniture from wear and stains, and breathe new life into old furniture. It’s a cost-effective solution that helps extend the lifespan of your chairs while offering a creative outlet.

How do I choose the right material for armchair covers?

When choosing fabric for armchair covers, consider durability, style, and maintenance. Common options include cotton for breathability, polyester for easy care, linen for a sophisticated look, and stretch fabric for a snug fit. Select a material that fits your needs.

How can I ensure a perfect fit for my armchair covers?

To ensure a perfect fit, measure your armchair accurately. Take measurements of the width, depth, height, arm height, arm width, and seat cushion thickness. Use these measurements to create a pattern, allowing for seam allowances, and test with muslin before cutting your final fabric.

What supplies do I need to make armchair covers?

Essential supplies for making armchair covers include measuring tape, a sewing machine, thread, fabric scissors, pins, and an iron. These tools will help you measure, cut, and sew the fabric correctly for a professional finish.

Can I customize my armchair covers?

Yes! You can customize your armchair covers with various patterns, embroidery, piping, and trim. Feel free to experiment with different design elements to create a cover that reflects your personal style and enhances your home décor.

How do I care for my armchair covers?

To care for your armchair covers, follow washing instructions specific to the fabric used. Regularly spot clean stains, machine wash as needed, and avoid harsh chemicals. Iron the covers as required to maintain a crisp appearance and prolong their lifespan.