How To Recover Outdoor Patio Furniture Cushions From Scratch

How to Recover Outdoor Patio Furniture Cushions From Scratch

As summer approaches, it's time to bring new life to your outdoor patio furniture. If your cushions have seen better days, recovering them is a great way to refresh their look and extend their lifespan. With a little effort, you can recover your cushions in a few hours, giving them a custom-made feel that complements your outdoor décor.

Materials You'll Need:

New outdoor fabric (enough to cover your cushions with seam allowances)
Upholstery foam (if your cushions need extra cushioning)
Fabric scissors
Measuring tape or ruler
Chalk or fabric marker
Heavy-duty thread
Sewing machine or needle and thread
Zipper or hook-and-loop tape (optional but recommended for ease of removal)

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Fabric

Measure the length, width, and depth of your cushions. Add 2-3 inches to each measurement for seam allowances. Cut out two pieces of fabric for each cushion, one for the top and one for the bottom.

Step 2: Add Upholstery Foam (Optional)

If your cushions need extra cushioning, cut upholstery foam to fit the size of your fabric pieces. Place the foam between the two pieces of fabric, centering it evenly.

Step 3: Pin and Sew the Sides

With the right sides of the fabric facing each other, pin the sides together. Sew a straight stitch along each side, leaving a small opening for the zipper or hook-and-loop tape.

Step 4: Insert the Zipper or Hook-and-Loop Tape

Fold over the edges of the opening and insert your chosen closure. Sew it securely in place, leaving enough overlap on each side for the closure to function properly.

Step 5: Sew the Bottom

Fold under the edges of the bottom fabric piece and pin it to the bottom edge of the cushion. Sew a straight stitch around the entire perimeter, closing the bottom and completing the cushion cover.

Step 6: Finish the Seam Allowances

Trim any excess fabric or foam from the seam allowances. You can also use a serger or pinking shears to neaten the edges and prevent fraying.

Step 7: Insert the Cushions

Place the recovered cushions back onto your patio furniture and enjoy your renewed outdoor relaxation space. By following these steps, you can easily recover your outdoor patio furniture cushions from scratch, giving them a fresh and updated look that will last for seasons to come.