DIY Network

Glider Cushions Rejuvenate an old rocking chair (or customize a new one) with new cushions. From "Uncommon Threads" episode DUCT-118

Sarah Lewis re-covers cushions for a rocking chair. She shows how to use the cushion to create a pattern and then how to assemble the cushion.

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Materials:

Glider Cushions

1.5 yds. 54" upholstery or other durable, machine-washable fabric (actual yardage depends on size of cushion and width of chosen fabric)
matching thread
1 yd. sew-on hook-and-loop tape (3/4" wide)
notions: pins, scissors, measuring tape, sewing machine, iron and ironing board

You can use the existing cushions, or if your chair doesn't have them, buy foam/pillows at a craft store and cut to fit the seat and back of the chair.

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Prewash fabric if you have any concerns about it shrinking.

1. Fold fabric with right sides together. Trace cushion outline on wrong side of fabric. Measure the thickness of your cushion and, using a ruler, draw a second line half of that thickness, plus a 0.5" seam allowance away from the traced outline on the front and sides of the cushion (figure A). At the back of the cushion, add 1" (total 2.5") for the hook-and-loop closure.

2. Cut along the second line to create 2 pieces, the top and bottom of the cushion cover.

3. At the edge of each piece where the hook-and-loop closure will be, fold and iron a 0.5" hem (right sides together).

4. Cut a piece of hook-and-loop tape 1" shorter than the hemmed edge. Separate tape and pin to each piece, covering the raw edge and leaving a 0.5" gap from each end of fabric (figure B).

5. Secure tape to fabric by sewing along each side and ends.

6. Fold tape edge back (wrong sides together), iron flat and topstitch right at the edge of the fold (figure C).

7. Pin edges (wrong sides together) on remaining 3 sides, sew together 0.5" from the edge.

8. Turn right side out and insert cushion to check fit. Adjust as needed.

9. Repeat for second cushion, inserting ties at top corners in step #7 (figure D).