How to Make a Bean Bag Chair

Creating your own bean bag chair is a fun and rewarding DIY project that allows you to customize both the design and comfort of your seating. Whether you’re looking for a cozy addition to your living space or a unique gift for someone, making a bean bag chair is simple with the right materials and a bit of creativity. This guide will walk you through the steps of how to make a bean bag chair.

Why Make Your Own Bean Bag Chair?

Making your own bean bag chair comes with several advantages. First, it allows you to customize the chair to suit your personal style and preferences, from the fabric and color to the size and shape. Additionally, creating your own bean bag chair can be more cost-effective than purchasing a pre-made one, especially if you use materials you already have or shop for budget-friendly options. It’s also a rewarding DIY project that lets you take pride in crafting something both functional and comfortable.

Plus, by making it yourself, you can ensure the quality and durability of the chair, giving you a finished product that lasts for years to come.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

To create your own diy bean bag chair, you’ll need a few essential materials and tools. Here’s a handy list to get you started:

Materials

• Fabric: Choose a durable fabric like cotton, denim, or upholstery material for the outer cover. For an inner liner, lightweight polyester or muslin works well.
• Filling: Bean bag filling options include polystyrene beads, shredded memory foam, or recycled materials like old clothes or fabric scraps.
• Thread: Use strong, high-quality thread that complements your chosen fabric.
• Zipper or Velcro: A zipper or Velcro strip helps make the outer cover removable and washable.

Tools

• Sewing Machine: A reliable sewing machine speeds up the process and ensures sturdy stitching.
• Scissors: Sharp fabric scissors are essential for cutting the fabric with precision.
• Measuring Tape: Ensures accuracy in fabric measurements.
• Pins or Clips: Keeps your fabric in place while sewing.
• Chalk or Fabric Marker: To mark patterns and guidelines on the fabric.

Having all the materials and tools ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable. With these in hand, you’re well on your way to crafting the perfect bean bag chair!

10 Methods How to Make a Bean Bag Chair

1. Choose the Right Fabric for Comfort and Durability

Before you begin making a bean bag chair, selecting the right fabric is crucial. The outer layer of your bean bag should be both comfortable to sit on and strong enough to handle frequent use. Popular choices include cotton, denim, faux leather, microsuede, and upholstery-grade polyester. For kids or pets, consider stain-resistant and machine-washable materials. If the chair is meant for outdoor use, waterproof or weather-resistant fabric is ideal. Think about texture, flexibility, and color to match your room’s aesthetic. A durable yet soft fabric ensures your homemade chair is as functional as it is cozy.

2. Decide on the Shape and Size That Fits Your Space

Bean bag chairs come in various shapes and sizes—from round poufs to structured loungers. Before you start cutting fabric, decide what shape best suits your needs. Round or pear-shaped chairs are the most common and ideal for casual lounging. For reading or gaming, a teardrop or lounger shape with a backrest offers better support. Measure your available space and determine how much room the bean bag will take up when filled. Keep in mind that larger bean bags require significantly more fill material, which can affect both cost and weight.

3. Draft or Find a Simple Sewing Pattern

Creating or using a reliable sewing pattern makes the process easier and more precise. If you’re experienced with sewing, you can draft your own pattern using basic geometry—often, six panels shaped like wide triangles sewn together into a dome-like shape will do. For beginners, numerous free and paid bean bag chair patterns are available online. Patterns usually include cutting templates and step-by-step sewing instructions. Ensuring that all pieces are symmetrical and proportional will help your final chair look neat and professional.

4. Cut and Prepare the Fabric Panels Accurately

Once your pattern is ready, lay it on your chosen fabric and carefully cut each panel using sharp fabric scissors or a rotary cutter. Accuracy during this step is key to making a symmetrical and stable chair. You will need an outer cover and, ideally, an inner lining that holds the filling. This inner layer allows you to remove and wash the outer fabric when needed. Mark each piece for reference and ensure you’re cutting with the fabric’s grain for better structure. Double-check that you have the correct number of panels, plus circular top and bottom pieces if your design requires them.

5. Sew the Fabric Panels Together with Reinforced Seams

Using a strong thread and a sewing machine, begin sewing the fabric panels together. Start with pairs, then sew those pairs together until all panels are connected into a single, rounded shape. Reinforce the seams with a double stitch or zigzag stitch to ensure the chair holds up under pressure and weight. If you’re adding a zipper for the outer cover (which is highly recommended for easy cleaning), insert it near the bottom seam before fully closing the circle. Take your time during this step to prevent uneven seams or weak points that might split later.

6. Make an Inner Liner for Filling Containment

A bean bag chair works best when it has a separate inner liner that holds the filling. This liner can be made from muslin, lightweight cotton, or polyester—something inexpensive yet durable. Using the same shape as your outer shell, sew a duplicate inner bag and install a strong zipper or tightly sewn opening that allows you to add or remove filling as needed. The inner liner allows you to wash the outer cover without spilling the fill material and also helps maintain the shape and safety of the chair.

7. Choose the Right Fill Material for Comfort and Support

Filling your bean bag chair properly is what gives it shape, comfort, and structure. Traditional bean bags use expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads—lightweight, cushiony, and moldable. Alternatives include shredded memory foam for a plusher, denser feel or even recycled materials like old fabric scraps or packaging peanuts. Each material changes the texture and comfort level of the chair, so consider testing different fills if you’re unsure. For a standard adult-sized chair, you may need between 4–10 cubic feet of filling, depending on your desired firmness.

8. Carefully Fill the Liner and Close It Securely

Filling a bean bag can be messy if not done carefully. It’s best to use a funnel and pour the filling slowly into the inner liner—preferably over a tub or large bin to catch any stray pieces. Having a second person help hold the bag open can make this step easier. Fill the liner until it’s comfortably full but not overly stuffed; you want the chair to be malleable enough to mold to your body. Once filled, securely zip or stitch the liner shut. Avoid overfilling, which can make the chair too rigid and prone to seam stress.

9. Insert the Liner into the Outer Cover

After filling and sealing the inner liner, place it carefully into the outer cover. Align the liner to sit evenly inside, smoothing out any wrinkles or folds. Zip up the outer layer, and your bean bag chair is nearly ready for use. Adjust the inner filling as needed to shape the bag and ensure it sits properly. This two-layer system not only extends the life of the chair but also makes future maintenance much simpler, whether for cleaning, repair, or refill.

10. Add Final Touches and Enjoy Your Custom Chair

To finish, inspect your bean bag chair for any loose threads, uneven seams, or zippers that need reinforcement. Give it a few test sits to let the fill settle naturally and adjust for comfort. You can even personalize your chair with embroidery, patches, or a removable slipcover in fun prints. If you want extra versatility, sew on carrying handles or add a waterproof base. Now that your chair is complete, place it in your favorite corner and enjoy a personalized, cozy spot that you built with your own hands.

Things to Consider When Making a Bean Bag Chair

1. Fabric Choice 

  Select a durable and easy-to-clean material that fits your aesthetic. Cotton, polyester, or faux leather are popular options, but consider a waterproof fabric if your chair will be used outdoors.

2. Proper Fill Material 

  Decide on the right type of fill for your chair. Polystyrene beads offer a lightweight feel, while shredded foam gives a more supportive structure. You can even try a mix of materials for a custom comfort level.

3. Size and Shape 

  Determine the ideal size and shape of your bean bag chair. Larger chairs are perfect for lounging, while compact designs are more suited for limited spaces.

4. Safety Features 

  If the chair will be used by children, ensure the zippers are childproof to prevent accidental opening. Double stitching can also enhance durability and avoid spills.

5. Maintenance Requirements 

  Consider how easy it will be to keep your chair clean and in good condition. A removable or machine-washable slipcover can save you time and effort.

Conclusion

Making a bean bag chair at home is a rewarding DIY project that blends creativity, comfort, and functionality. From choosing the right fabric and shape to carefully sewing, filling, and finishing the chair, each method helps ensure a durable and cozy final product. Thanks for reading our blog post on how to make a bean bag chair! We hope you found it helpful and informative.