How to Make a Chair Slipcover

Learn how to create slipcovers for chairs that will be distinctive. Select fabrics that will match or complement the color themes in any room.

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Time
Day
Price Range
$250 - $500
Difficulty
Moderate

In this Project you will:

Make a Template
Select Fabric and Stitch the Edges
Align the Fabric Pieces
Sew the Fabric Pieces Together

Step 1: Make a Template

Begin by cutting a paper template from craft paper. Measure the paper against the back of your chair, and be sure to cut out the template large enough to include a seam allowance.

Step 2: Select Fabric and Stitch the Edges

Choose the fabric or fabrics that you want to use. Select fabrics that complement or match the colors in your room. For our demonstration, two different but carefully coordinated fabrics (Image 1) were used for the front and back to give the slipcovers an even more distinctive look. The fabrics selected were both cotton. Since the cut edges of cotton fabrics tend to fray, a zigzag stitch was used along the edges to prevent the fabric from unraveling and give it a finished edge (Image 2). Other options could include serging the edges or using a fabric glue. Finish the bottom edges of the covers by sewing a straight hem (Image 3).

- Image 1
- Image 2
- Image 3

Step 3: Align the Fabric Pieces

To join the two pieces together, use a braided trim with a selvage edge (Image 1). The selvage edge will be used between the edges of the two pieces of fabric. Face the two pieces together, with the right sides together, and place the braided trim between them so that the selvage edge runs between the edges of the fabric. The ribbon trim adds a decorative touch, and will also be used in tying the finished slipcover securely when it's put on the chair. Place the ribbon between the two pieces of fabric, and over the braid (Image 2).

- Image 1
- Image 2

Step 4: Sew the Fabric Pieces Together

With the fabrics, trim and ribbon aligned properly, sew them together with a straight stitch (Image 1). Use a zipper foot in your sewing machine. Since the edge of the braid is so thick, it is sewn in just as a zipper would be. Sew the stitch so that it's close to the braiding. If sewn properly, the braid forms the boundary between the two pieces of fabric, and the ribbon is secured tightly (Image 2). Once you've sewn all the way around the three sides (excluding the finished bottom edge), you can turn the slipcover inside-out to reveal the finished cover (Image 3).