Cushion Slipcover Tutorial

I hope these tutorials aren't overly boring, I've seen some "creative" sewing around blogland, so thought I'd put my two-cents worth in on making a cushion slipcover.   (Remember, I am not a professional!)  The problem we are solving in this instance is my friend has a leather sofa that isn't particularly old, but some spots of it had worn poorly.

This is a shot of a spot that has a coin imprint on it.  She decided she wanted to slipcover the bottom cushions only, while leaving the top cushions and main body of the sofa the same since they are still in good condition.  Together we selected a beautiful woven fabric that closely matches the leather color.

I always, always start out with a sketch.  (However, I don't always start out with the best paper.)  I write down the measurements of the fabric that is visible, THEN add my seam allowances.  I always write "Cut" at the measurements I want to actually CUT the fabric at -- I know, I'm stating the obvious.  I just don't want to accidentally cut out pieces without a seam allowance.  I also want to know which measurements are which -- did I add a seam allowance, or no?  This keeps me straight.  (I also did this for the narrower back pieces with the zipper, for some reason the sketch didn't make it in the photo.)

A zipper goes in the back for slipping off when they need to be cleaned.

 (It is not the fault of your monitor, this is a blurry photo!)

Next you will need to join your zippered end with the wrap-around piece, checking that it fits around your cushion with the amount of snugness you would like. 

(click on photos to enlarge)

Next, I assemble by adding the top and bottom to the side band.  I always pin the centers of the pieces I need to match up.  You can pin the front center only, or the centers on all of the sides.  I generally just do the front unless I really have some concerns about how much the fabric might shift.

Match up the centers.  From there I pin outward in either direction.  This will help you keep everything lined up, because no matter how carefully you think you are sewing, there is always some give to the fabric.

Here it is shown with all of the sides pinned and ready to sew.

You will need to repeat the steps to put the other side of your cushion slipcover on.  When you are pinning, make sure you match up the corners, so the box shape will turn out correctly.  UNZIP your zipper at least partially before you sew the side on so you can get it open later!  When you are done sewing, trim and clip corners, the turn right side out and then slip your cushion in.  We covered right over top of the existing leather.  Note:  This sofa did not have welting, that is why there is none on the slipcover.  See my welting tutorial if you're interested in adding it.

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My friend put her cushions in place, I just don't have photos of them yet!


P.S. My pantry contents are still in my Darling Husband's garage bay. I will not be working on it until Sunday or Monday, as I'm helping my mom pack boxes for her move... Thank you to those of you who left helpful suggestions on my Pantry Predicament.


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