How To Make Sofa Cover

Choosing the Right Fabric

When it comes to making a sofa cover, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right fabric. The fabric you select will determine the overall look, longevity, and functionality of your sofa cover. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing the fabric for your sofa cover:

Material: First and foremost, consider the material of the fabric. Opt for a durable material that can withstand everyday wear and tear. Fabrics like cotton, linen, or polyester blends are commonly used for sofa covers due to their durability and easy maintenance.
Color and Pattern: Think about the color scheme and pattern that will complement your existing furniture and home decor. Choose a color that harmonizes with the overall theme of your living room. Solid colors or subtle patterns are versatile and can easily blend in with different interior styles.
Texture: Consider the texture of the fabric. Smooth and soft fabrics like velvet or microfiber can add a luxurious touch to your sofa cover. On the other hand, if you have pets or children, you might want to opt for a textured fabric that hides stains and scratches more effectively.
Weight: The weight of the fabric is another crucial factor to consider. For a snug and tailored fit, choose a medium-weight fabric that has enough drape without being overly heavy. Too lightweight fabrics can easily shift and wrinkle, while too heavy fabrics may be difficult to work with and may not conform well to the shape of your sofa.
Cleanability: It’s important to choose a fabric that is easy to clean and maintain. Look for fabrics that are machine washable or can be spot cleaned. This will help prolong the life of your sofa cover and make it easier to keep it looking fresh and tidy.

Keep in mind that the fabric you choose should be both aesthetically pleasing and practical for your specific needs. Take the time to browse through a variety of fabrics, and if possible, get fabric samples to envision how they will look in your space. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the right fabric for your sofa cover, resulting in a beautiful and functional addition to your living room décor.

Measuring the Sofa

Before you can start making a sofa cover, you need to accurately measure your sofa. Proper measurements are crucial to ensure a well-fitting cover that enhances the aesthetics of your furniture. Here are the steps to measure your sofa:

Length: Measure the total length of your sofa from one arm to the other. Start from the outermost point of one arm and extend it to the outermost point of the opposite arm. Note down this measurement as it will be vital in determining the overall width of your fabric panels.
Width: Measure the width of your sofa from the backrest to the front edge or seat cushion. Again, measure this distance from one side to the other, ensuring you include any arms or protrusions in your measurement. Make a note of this measurement for reference later.
Height: Measure the height of your sofa from the floor to the highest point of the backrest. This measurement will help you determine the length of the fabric panels that will cover the back of your sofa.
Armrest: Measure the width and height of the armrests if you want to include separate covers for them. Note down these measurements, as you will need them when cutting the fabric for the armrest covers.
Cushion Thickness: If you have removable seat cushions, measure the thickness of these cushions. This measurement is essential for determining the depth of the seat panel fabric that will cover the cushions.

It’s crucial to be precise when measuring your sofa. Use a measuring tape and ensure it remains level and straight for accurate measurements. Additionally, double-check all measurements before moving on to the next step.

Keep in mind that precise measurements will result in a well-fitting sofa cover. If you’re unsure or have any difficulty measuring your sofa, consult a professional or refer to online tutorials for assistance. Taking the time to measure your sofa accurately will ensure that your sofa cover fits like a glove, enhancing the overall appearance and protecting your furniture for years to come.

Calculating the Fabric Yardage

Once you have measured your sofa, the next step in making a sofa cover is calculating the fabric yardage needed. This will ensure that you have enough fabric to cover all the different parts of your sofa. Here’s how you can calculate the fabric yardage:

Width: Start by calculating the width of the fabric needed for the back panel. Take the width measurement of your sofa and add a few inches for seam allowance and tucking in. This will give you the width of the fabric needed for the back panel.
Length: Next, determine the length of fabric required for the back panel by measuring the height of your sofa and adding a few inches for seam allowance and hemming.
Seat Panel: To calculate the fabric yardage for the seat panel, take the width measurement of your sofa and add a few inches for seam allowance and tucking in. Then, measure the depth of the sofa seat cushions and add a few inches for seam allowance and hemming.
Side Panels: Measure the height of your sofa and add a few inches for seam allowance and hemming. Multiply this measurement by 2 to account for both sides of the sofa. This will give you the total length of fabric needed for the side panels.
Armrest Covers: If you plan to make separate covers for the armrests, measure the width and height of the armrests. Add a few inches for seam allowance and hemming to determine the fabric dimensions needed for each armrest cover.

Once you have calculated the fabric yardage for each component of your sofa cover, add these measurements together to determine the total fabric yardage required. It’s always a good idea to add a bit of extra fabric to account for any mistakes or adjustments that may be necessary during the sewing process.

When purchasing your fabric, consider the width of the fabric roll. Standard upholstery fabrics typically come in widths of 54 inches or more. If the width of your required fabric exceeds the width of the fabric roll, you may need to join multiple fabric panels together to achieve the desired width.

By carefully calculating the fabric yardage, you can ensure that you have enough fabric to complete your sofa cover project without any last-minute surprises. This will allow you to proceed with confidence and create a beautiful cover that perfectly fits your sofa.

Cutting the Fabric Pieces

Once you have determined the required fabric yardage, it’s time to start cutting the fabric pieces for your sofa cover. Precision and attention to detail are crucial in this step to ensure accurate and uniform fabric panels. Here’s how to cut the fabric pieces for your sofa cover:

Back Panel: Using the measurements you calculated earlier for the back panel, mark and cut a rectangular piece of fabric accordingly. Remember to include seam allowances on all sides.
Side Panels: Measure and cut two rectangular pieces of fabric for the side panels, using the height and width measurements you obtained during the measuring stage. Allow for seam allowances on all sides.
Seat Panel: Cut a rectangular piece of fabric for the seat panel, using the width and depth measurements you calculated earlier. Be sure to include seam allowances on all sides.
Armrest Covers: Based on the measurements you took for the armrests, cut two separate pieces of fabric for the armrest covers. Include seam allowances on all sides.

When cutting the fabric, use sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter to ensure clean and precise cuts. Take your time and follow the marked measurements to maintain accuracy throughout the cutting process. It’s also a good idea to double-check your measurements before making any cuts to avoid costly mistakes.

Remember, the accuracy of your fabric pieces will directly impact the final fit and appearance of your sofa cover. Taking the time to cut the fabric pieces carefully will result in a professional-looking end product that perfectly covers your sofa.

Adding Seam Allowance

When making a sofa cover, adding seam allowance is a crucial step that ensures proper fitting and allows for sewing seams. Seam allowance refers to the extra fabric left beyond the cutting line, which allows room for stitching the fabric pieces together. Here’s how you can add seam allowance to your fabric pieces:

Back Panel: Determine the desired seam allowance for the back panel. A common seam allowance is 1/2 inch or 1.27 cm. Measure and mark this seam allowance on all sides of the fabric panel. Ensure that the marked lines are parallel to the edges of the fabric.
Side Panels: Add seam allowance to the height and width measurements for the side panels. Again, a standard seam allowance is 1/2 inch or 1.27 cm. Measure and mark this allowance on all sides of the fabric pieces.
Seat Panel: Extend the seam allowance to the width and depth measurements of the seat panel. Use the same seam allowance measurement as before and mark it on all sides of the fabric piece.
Armrest Covers: Add seam allowance to the width and height measurements of the armrest covers. Use the chosen seam allowance and mark it on all sides of the fabric pieces.

When marking the seam allowance, use a fabric marker, chalk, or pins to make clear and precise lines. Ensure that the lines are straight and parallel to the cutting lines. Accuracy and consistency in adding seam allowance will ensure that the fabric pieces align correctly when it comes time to sew them together.

Adding seam allowance to your fabric pieces is an important preparation step that sets the foundation for a well-fitting and professionally sewn sofa cover. Take your time and double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy throughout this process.

Sewing the Side Panels

After cutting the fabric pieces and adding the necessary seam allowance, it’s time to sew the side panels of your sofa cover. This step will bring your cover one step closer to completion. Follow these steps to sew the side panels:

Pin the Panels: Start by pinning the side panels to the back panel. Align the edges of the side panels with the corresponding edges of the back panel, right sides facing each other. Use sewing pins to secure the fabrics in place, ensuring that the corners match up accurately.
Stitch the Panels: Using a sewing machine and a suitable thread, stitch along the pinned edges of the fabric panels. Use a straight stitch or a stitch suitable for your chosen fabric. Sew with a seam allowance of your preference, typically 1/2 inch or 1.27 cm. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seams to secure them.
Finish the Seams: To reinforce the seams and prevent fraying, you can finish the raw edges by either using a serger or encasing them with a zigzag stitch. This will add durability to your sofa cover and give it a neat and professional finish.

Take your time while sewing the side panels to ensure accurate stitching and a smooth appearance. Remove the pins as you sew along the panels, keeping the fabric pieces aligned and preventing any shifting. If needed, use a fabric iron to press the sewn seams flat or in the desired direction.

Once you have completed sewing the side panels, inspect the stitches for any loose threads or irregularities. Trim any excess threads and give the fabric panels a final press if necessary. The completed side panel seams will provide structure and shape to your sofa cover.

With the side panels sewn in place, your sofa cover will start to take shape. It’s an exciting milestone in the process and brings you one step closer to the finished product.

Sewing the Back Panel

After sewing the side panels, it’s time to sew the back panel of your sofa cover. This step will further enhance the structure and functionality of your cover. Follow these steps to sew the back panel:

Pinning the Back Panel: Begin by pinning the back panel to the side panel seams that you have already sewn. Align the edges of the back panel with the corresponding edges of the side panels, ensuring that the right sides are facing each other. Use sewing pins to secure the fabrics in place, paying close attention to align the corners accurately.
Stitching the Back Panel: Once the back panel is pinned in place, use a sewing machine and a suitable thread to stitch along the pinned edges. Use a straight stitch or a stitch appropriate for your chosen fabric. Maintain a seam allowance of your preference, typically 1/2 inch or 1.27 cm. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seams to secure them.
Finishing the Seams: To reinforce the seams and prevent fraying, it is recommended to finish the raw edges. You can either use a serger to overlock the edges or encase them with a zigzag stitch. This will add durability to your sofa cover and provide a neat and professional finish.

While sewing the back panel, ensure that the fabric remains smooth and properly aligned. Remove the pins as you sew along the edges, maintaining the alignment of the fabric pieces. Take the time to inspect the stitches for any loose threads or irregularities, trimming them and giving the fabric a final press if needed.

Sewing the back panel securely to the side panels will provide stability and structure to your sofa cover. It will hold the different fabric pieces together, ensuring a cohesive and functional end result.

Once you have completed sewing the back panel, you are well on your way to completing your sofa cover. The combined efforts of sewing the side and back panels will create a solid base for the rest of the cover, bringing your project closer to the finished product.

Sewing the Seat Panel

Now that the side and back panels of your sofa cover are in place, it’s time to sew the seat panel. The seat panel is an essential component that covers the seat cushions and completes the overall look of the cover. Follow these steps to sew the seat panel:

Pinning the Seat Panel: Begin by pinning the seat panel to the side and back panels that you have already sewn. Align the edges of the seat panel with the corresponding edges of the side and back panels, making sure that the right sides are facing each other. Use sewing pins to secure the fabrics in place, ensuring that the corners match up accurately.
Stitching the Seat Panel: Using a sewing machine and a suitable thread, stitch along the pinned edges of the fabric panels to join them together. Use a straight stitch or a stitch appropriate for your chosen fabric. Maintain a seam allowance of your preference, typically 1/2 inch or 1.27 cm. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seams to secure them.
Finishing the Seams: To reinforce the seams and prevent fraying, it is recommended to finish the raw edges of the seat panel. You can use a serger to overlock the edges or encase them with a zigzag stitch. This will provide durability to your sofa cover and give it a polished and professional finish.

While sewing the seat panel, ensure that the fabric remains smooth and properly aligned. Remove the pins as you sew along the edges, keeping the fabric pieces in place. Take the time to inspect the stitches for any loose threads or irregularities, trimming them and giving the fabric a final press if necessary.

With the seat panel sewn in place, your sofa cover is starting to come together. The seat panel provides coverage for the cushions and contributes to the overall stability and functionality of the cover.

Once you have completed sewing the seat panel, you have successfully completed another important step in creating your sofa cover. The combination of the side, back, and seat panels will create a unified and well-fitting cover that brings new life to your sofa.

Sewing the Armrest Covers

For a truly customized sofa cover, you may choose to sew separate armrest covers. These covers add an extra layer of protection and can elevate the overall aesthetic of your sofa. Follow these steps to sew the armrest covers:

Pinning the Armrest Covers: Begin by pinning the armrest covers to the armrests of your sofa. Use sewing pins to secure the fabric in place, ensuring that it fits snugly over the armrests. Take care to align the edges and corners accurately for a precise fit.
Stitching the Armrest Covers: Using a sewing machine and a suitable thread, stitch along the pinned edges of the fabric to attach the armrest covers to the armrests. Use a straight stitch or a stitch appropriate for your chosen fabric. Maintain the chosen seam allowance, typically 1/2 inch or 1.27 cm. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seams to secure them firmly.
Finishing the Seams: To reinforce the seams and prevent fraying, consider finishing the raw edges of the armrest covers. You can use a serger to overlock the edges or encase them with a zigzag stitch. This will add durability to your armrest covers and give them a polished appearance.

As you sew the armrest covers, ensure that the fabric remains smooth and properly aligned. Remove the pins as you sew along the edges, ensuring that the fabric stays in place. Take the time to inspect the stitches for any loose threads or irregularities, trimming them and giving the fabric a final press if necessary.

With the armrest covers sewn securely in place, your sofa is now beautifully protected and enhanced. The armrest covers add an extra touch of style while providing additional functionality to your sofa cover.

Once you have completed sewing the armrest covers, you are just a few steps away from completing your sofa cover project. The finished armrest covers will seamlessly integrate with the rest of the cover, creating a cohesive and tailored look.

Attaching the Velcro or Zipper

One of the final steps in making a sofa cover is attaching the closures. Velcro or zippers are commonly used to secure the cover to the sofa and ensure a snug fit. Depending on the design and your personal preference, you can choose either option. Here’s how to attach the closures:

Measure and Cut: Determine the length and width of the closures needed to secure the cover to the sofa. Measure the appropriate lengths of Velcro or zipper tape, ensuring they are slightly shorter than the corresponding edges of the cover.
Positioning: Decide where you want to position the closures on the cover. Common placements include along the bottom edges of the back panel and side panels, or on the underside of the seat panel. Consider accessibility, functionality, and aesthetics when determining the best placement.
Attaching Velcro: If using Velcro, sew one side of the Velcro tape to the cover’s edge and the other side to the corresponding surface of the sofa. Ensure that both sides align securely when the cover is in place.
Installing a Zipper: If using a zipper, pin the zipper tape along the desired edges of the cover where the closure is needed. Use a zipper foot on your sewing machine to stitch along the pinned edges, attaching the zipper tape securely to the cover.

Ensure that the closures are sewn securely and aligned properly to allow for easy opening and closing. As you sew, be mindful of any seams or panels they intersect and make any necessary adjustments to maintain the overall appearance and functionality of the cover.

Attaching Velcro or a zipper is crucial for keeping the sofa cover in place and preventing it from shifting. The closures provide a secure and neat finish, ensuring that your cover remains taut and in place for an extended period.

With the closures firmly attached, your sofa cover is nearing completion. The addition of Velcro or a zipper guarantees the cover’s stability and functionality, making it a functional and stylish addition to your sofa.

Hemming the Edges

As you near the final stages of making a sofa cover, it’s time to hem the edges. Hemming not only provides a polished and professional finish but also prevents fraying and adds durability to the cover. Here’s how you can hem the edges of your sofa cover:

Prepare the Fabric: To begin, fold over the raw edge of the fabric about ¼ inch or 0.6 cm towards the wrong side. Press with a hot iron to create a crease, ensuring an even and crisp fold.
Fold and Press Again: Next, fold the fabric over for a second time, this time folding it about 1 inch or 2.5 cm towards the wrong side. Press the fold with an iron to create a clean and secure hem.
Sew the Hem: Pin the folded hem in place to keep it secure. Using a sewing machine and a suitable thread, stitch along the pinned edge of the hem, close to the inner fold. Use a straight stitch or a stitch appropriate for your fabric. Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the hem in place.

Continue hemming the edges of the fabric panels, including the side panels, back panel, seat panel, and armrest covers. Take care to maintain a consistent width for the hem throughout the cover to achieve a professional and cohesive look.

Additionally, if you have any corners or curved edges, you may need to trim excess fabric or create small pleats to ensure a smooth and even hemline. Pay attention to these details to achieve a clean and polished finish.

Hemming the edges of your sofa cover not only adds a refined touch but also helps to prevent fraying and extend the lifespan of your cover. The neatly finished hems will enhance the overall appearance of the cover and contribute to its durability.

With the edges expertly hemmed, your sofa cover is nearly complete. The addition of the hemlines brings a sense of polish and sophistication, transforming your fabric panels into a professionally tailored cover for your sofa.

Securing the Sofa Cover in Place

After all the hard work of creating your sofa cover, it’s essential to secure it in place to ensure a neat and tidy appearance. Securing the cover will prevent it from shifting or slipping, keeping it in place even with daily use. Here are some methods to help you secure your sofa cover:

Tuck and Tuck: One of the simplest ways to secure your sofa cover is by tucking the excess fabric into the crevices of the sofa. Start by tucking the fabric into the gap between the seat cushions and the armrests. You can also tuck it between the backrest and the seat cushions for added stability.
Straps or Elastic: Another way to secure the cover is by attaching straps or elastic to the underside of the cover. Attach one end of the straps or elastic to the cover and fasten the other end to the sofa frame, using hooks or loops. This will provide additional support and keep the cover in place.
Grip Pads or Non-Slip Mats: To prevent the cover from slipping, consider using grip pads or non-slip mats. These adhesive materials can be placed between the cover and the sofa to create friction and keep the cover in place. Make sure to cut them to the appropriate size to fit your sofa’s dimensions.
Tie or Velcro Strips: If your sofa cover has ties or Velcro strips, utilize them to secure the cover tightly. Tie or fasten the straps around the arms, back, or bottom of the sofa to keep the cover from shifting.

Experiment with different methods and combinations to find the most effective way to secure your sofa cover. Every sofa is unique, so choose the method that works best for your particular sofa type and cover design.

By securing your sofa cover in place, you can maintain a clean and snug appearance. This will ensure that your hard work in creating the cover is not undone, and your sofa remains stylishly covered for years to come.

Remember to regularly check and readjust the securing methods as needed, particularly after heavy use or cleaning the cover. This will help to retain the cover’s position and keep it looking fresh and well-maintained.

Optional: Adding Piping or Trimming

If you’re looking to add extra flair and a touch of personalization to your sofa cover, consider incorporating piping or trimmings. Piping and trimmings can enhance the visual appeal of your cover, making it stand out and adding a custom-made look. Here’s how you can add piping or trimmings to your sofa cover:

Piping: Piping is a decorative cord covered with fabric that can be inserted between seams or used as an edging. To add piping to your sofa cover, start by cutting fabric strips on the bias or use pre-made piping. Sew the piping to the edges or seams, right sides together, as you assemble your cover. The piping can highlight the contour of the cover and create a refined finish.
Trimmings: Trimmings such as ribbons, braids, or fringes can be used to embellish the edges, seams, or corners of your sofa cover. Choose trimmings that complement your cover’s color scheme and style. Sew or glue the trimmings in place, being careful to align them neatly and securely. Trimmings can add a decorative touch and elevate the overall look of your cover.

When adding piping or trimmings, take your time to ensure precision and a clean finish. Pin or baste them in place first before sewing or gluing to ensure they are positioned exactly as desired. It may be helpful to use a zipper foot or a trim foot on your sewing machine to sew the piping or trimmings accurately.

Remember, adding piping or trimmings is an optional step that allows you to personalize your sofa cover according to your taste and style. It can transform a simple cover into a statement piece, showcasing your creativity and attention to detail.

Before attaching piping or trimmings, consider the functionality and practicality of your cover. Ensure that they won’t interfere with the functionality of the cover or cause any discomfort when sitting on the sofa.

Adding piping or trimmings to your sofa cover is a creative way to express your style and elevate the overall appearance of your cover. This final touch will make your cover truly unique and a reflection of your personal taste.