Diy Recover Outdoor Chair Cushions

DIY Recovering Outdoor Chair Cushions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Outdoor chair cushions, while designed for resilience, inevitably succumb to wear and tear from prolonged exposure to the elements. Fading colors, mildew stains, and fabric fraying are common issues. Replacing all outdoor cushions can be a significant expense. A cost-effective and environmentally conscious alternative is to recover existing cushions, giving them a new lease on life and refreshing the look of outdoor furniture.

The process of recovering outdoor chair cushions is manageable for individuals with basic sewing skills and access to essential materials. This article provides a comprehensive guide to effectively recovering outdoor chair cushions, detailing the necessary tools, fabric selection, and step-by-step instructions.

Key Point 1: Gathering Essential Materials and Tools

Successful cushion recovering hinges on having the right materials and tools readily available. This preliminary step ensures a smooth and efficient workflow, minimizing interruptions during the project.

The primary component is the fabric. Selecting the appropriate fabric is crucial for outdoor use. Look for fabrics specifically designed for outdoor applications, characterized by their resistance to water, fading, and mildew. Common choices include spun polyester, acrylic canvas (like Sunbrella), and solution-dyed acrylic. Consider the fabric's weight and durability based on the cushion's intended use and expected wear.

Beyond the fabric, the following materials and tools are required:

Measuring tape: Essential for accurately determining fabric requirements.
Scissors or rotary cutter: For precise fabric cutting. A rotary cutter, used with a cutting mat, provides cleaner and faster cuts, especially for large pieces of fabric.
Seam ripper: Used to carefully remove the old cushion cover without damaging the cushion insert.
Pins: To hold fabric pieces together securely before sewing. Ball-head pins are recommended for ease of handling.
Sewing machine: A sewing machine is necessary for creating durable seams. A heavy-duty machine is beneficial for thicker outdoor fabrics, but a standard machine with an appropriate needle can also suffice.
Thread: Select a thread specifically designed for outdoor use. Polyester or nylon thread is resistant to UV damage and moisture. Choose a color that closely matches the fabric for a seamless finish.
Zipper (optional): If the original cushion cover had a zipper, consider replacing it or adding one for ease of removal and cleaning. Measure the existing zipper length if replacing it.
Cushion insert: The existing cushion insert is reused. Examine it for any signs of damage or deterioration. If the insert is significantly compressed or damaged, consider replacing it before recovering the cushion.
Paper or cardboard (optional): For creating a pattern based on the old cushion cover.
Marking pen or chalk: For tracing patterns onto the fabric. A fabric marker that disappears with water or air is ideal.
Iron and ironing board: For pressing seams and creating crisp edges on the fabric.

Prior to commencing the project, inspect all tools and ensure they are in good working order. A dull needle or improperly functioning sewing machine can lead to uneven seams and a less-than-professional finish.

Key Point 2: Preparing the Existing Cushion and Creating a Pattern

Careful preparation of the existing cushion and the creation of an accurate pattern are essential steps in ensuring a well-fitting and aesthetically pleasing recovered cushion.

Begin by carefully removing the old cushion cover using the seam ripper. Take care not to damage the cushion insert. Once the cover is removed, inspect the insert for any damage, mold, or mildew. If necessary, clean the insert according to the manufacturer's instructions or consider replacing it if it is beyond repair.

The old cushion cover can serve as a template for the new pattern. Carefully flatten the cover and trace its outline onto paper or cardboard. Consider adding seam allowances to the traced pattern. A standard seam allowance of 1/2 inch is typically sufficient. Ensure all pattern pieces are clearly labeled, indicating the top, bottom, and sides of the cushion. If the old cover is heavily damaged or distorted, take precise measurements of the cushion insert and create a pattern based on these dimensions, adding appropriate seam allowances.

Alternatively, for simpler cushion shapes like squares or rectangles, direct measurement of the cushion insert and calculation of fabric dimensions can be used instead of creating a pattern. Remember to add seam allowances to all calculated dimensions.

Once the pattern is created or dimensions are calculated, carefully cut out the fabric pieces according to the pattern or dimensions. Ensure the fabric is laid out flat and taut before cutting to prevent uneven edges. If the fabric has a pattern, pay attention to pattern placement to ensure the design is visually appealing and consistent across the finished cushion.

Key Point 3: Sewing the New Cushion Cover

The sewing process requires precision and attention to detail to achieve a professional-looking and durable cushion cover. This step involves assembling the cut fabric pieces according to the pattern and creating strong, secure seams.

Begin by pinning the fabric pieces together, right sides facing each other. This ensures that the seams will be hidden on the inside of the finished cover. Align the edges of the fabric pieces carefully, matching corners and curves. Use a generous number of pins to hold the fabric securely in place during sewing, preventing slippage and distortion.

Using the sewing machine, stitch the fabric pieces together along the pinned seams. Maintain a consistent seam allowance throughout the sewing process, adhering to the previously determined seam allowance (typically 1/2 inch). Use a straight stitch and ensure the stitch length is appropriate for the fabric thickness. A shorter stitch length is generally recommended for thicker outdoor fabrics to create stronger seams.

Backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitches and prevent unraveling. This is especially important for outdoor cushions, which are subjected to significant stress and wear.

If the cushion cover requires a zipper, install it according to the zipper manufacturer's instructions. Typically, the zipper is inserted along one edge of the cushion cover, allowing for easy removal and insertion of the cushion insert. Ensure the zipper is securely sewn in place, reinforcing the stitches at the ends to prevent tearing.

After sewing all the seams, trim any excess fabric from the seam allowances. This reduces bulk and allows the seams to lie flat. Grade the seams by trimming one layer of fabric closer to the seam line than the other. This further reduces bulk and prevents the seams from showing through the finished cover.

Turn the cushion cover right side out. Use a point turner or a similar tool to push out the corners and create sharp, clean edges. Press the seams with an iron to create a professional finish. Pressing the seams flattens them, reduces bulk, and enhances the overall appearance of the cushion cover.

Finally, insert the cushion insert into the recovered cover. Ensure the insert fits snugly within the cover, filling out the corners and curves. If a zipper was installed, close the zipper to secure the insert. Inspect the finished cushion for any imperfections, such as loose threads or uneven seams. Trim any loose threads and reinforce any weak areas.

By following these steps carefully and paying attention to detail, individuals can successfully recover their outdoor chair cushions, extending their lifespan and enhancing the aesthetics of their outdoor spaces. The resulting cushions provide a comfortable and visually appealing addition to any patio or deck.