How to Make a Recliner Cover

Creating a custom recliner cover is a simple yet rewarding project that can breathe new life into an old piece of furniture. Whether you’re looking to refresh your living room’s aesthetic, protect your recliner from wear and tear, or simply add a personal touch, a handmade cover can meet your needs.

This guide on how to make a recliner cover will walk you through the process, from selecting the right fabric to the final stitching, ensuring a perfect fit for your recliner. Whether you’re a seasoned sewer or a complete novice, these step-by-step instructions will help you achieve professional-looking results.

What is a Recliner Cover?

A recliner cover is a protective layer that is placed over a recliner to prevent it from getting dirty or damaged. It can also be used to change the appearance of the recliner, making it look like a new piece of furniture.

Recliner covers come in various styles and materials, ranging from simple slipcovers to fully tailored covers with intricate detailing. Making your own recliner cover allows you to customize it according to your preferences and needs.

You can choose from a variety of fabrics, patterns, and colors to match your decor or create a statement piece. Additionally, creating your own recliner cover is more cost-effective than purchasing one, making it a budget-friendly option.

Materials You Will Need

To make a recliner cover, you will need:

Fabric of Your Choice:

Select a durable yet comfortable fabric for your cover. Consider the color and pattern of the fabric to complement your decor.

Measuring Tape:

You will need precise measurements to ensure a proper fit.

Scissors:

Sharp scissors are necessary for cutting fabric accurately.

Sewing Machine:

A sewing machine will make the process faster and more efficient, but you can also hand-sew if you prefer.

Thread:

Choose a thread that matches or complements your chosen fabric.

Pins:

Pins are used to hold the fabric in place while sewing.

8 Step-by-step Guides on How to Make a Recliner Cover

Step 1: Measure Your Recliner

Before you begin cutting your fabric, it’s crucial to take accurate measurements of your recliner to ensure a proper fit for your cover. Start by measuring the height, width, and depth of the backrest. Then, measure the seat, including its width and depth. Don’t forget to measure the length and width of the armrests, as well as the footrest, if your recliner has one.

It’s helpful to write down all these measurements on a piece of paper for easy reference as you proceed with your project. Accurate measurements will help you cut the fabric precisely and avoid any fitting issues later on.

Step 2: Create a Pattern

Creating a pattern for your recliner cover is an essential step that ensures all pieces will fit together perfectly. Start by using the measurements you took in Step 1 to draw out the individual sections of the cover on pattern paper or any large pieces of paper. You will need separate pieces for the backrest, seat, armrests, and footrest.

Lay the paper flat and use a ruler or straight edge to draw straight lines, ensuring that each piece is symmetrical. Be sure to add an extra inch around all sides of each pattern piece to account for seam allowances. If your recliner has unique features such as curved armrests or a distinct footrest design, make sure to incorporate these details into your pattern.

Once you have drawn out all sections, cut them out carefully using scissors. These paper patterns will serve as a guide when you cut your fabric, ensuring accuracy and consistency. Label each pattern piece clearly to avoid confusion during the cutting and sewing stages.

Step 3: Cut Your Fabric

Using the patterns as a guide, lay out your chosen fabric on a large, flat surface. Make sure to place the pattern pieces onto the fabric’s wrong side so that any markings or pen lines are hidden. Pin each pattern piece to the fabric and cut around them using sharp scissors. Be sure to leave an inch of extra fabric around each piece for seam allowances.

For sections that require two identical pieces, such as armrests and backrests, fold your fabric in half before pinning and cutting to ensure symmetry.

Step 4: Begin Sewing

With all your fabric pieces cut out, it’s time to start sewing them together. Begin by pinning the corresponding pieces together with the right sides facing each other. Start with the larger sections such as the backrest and seat.

Align the edges and pin them in place, then sew along the pinned edges using a straight stitch. Make sure to follow the seam allowance you included in your pattern, typically about an inch from the edge.

After sewing the backrest and seat together, proceed to attach the armrest pieces. Pin the armrest fabric to the sides of the seat and backrest, making sure the seams are aligned correctly. Sew these pieces together carefully, paying close attention to any curves or unique shapes your recliner may have. 

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Once you have completed sewing all the main pieces of your recliner cover, it’s time to add the finishing touches that will give your cover a polished, professional look.

Start by trimming any excess fabric from the seams to reduce bulk and ensure smooth edges. If you have a serger or overlock machine, you can use it to finish the raw edges, preventing fraying and adding durability to your cover.

Next, turn your cover on the right side out and carefully press all the seams with an iron. This will not only help the fabric lay flat but also highlight any areas that might need additional stitching or adjustments.

Step 6: Create Elastic Closures

To ensure your cover stays in place and fits snugly on your recliner, you can add elastic closures to the bottom of the seat and around the footrest. Cut two strips of elastic for each section, one slightly shorter than the other.

Sew one end of each strip to the bottom/backside of its respective section. Then, sew the other end onto the front/top side, making sure there is some tension on the elastic when attached.

When placing your cover onto your recliner, stretch out these elastic strips to fit snugly around their designated areas, ensuring that your cover stays in place.

Step 7: Add Velcro Strips

Adding Velcro strips to your recliner cover provides an easy and adjustable way to secure it in place. Begin by selecting the areas where you want the Velcro strips to be attached. Common spots include the sides of the armrests, the back of the seat, and the footrest. Measure and cut the Velcro strips to the desired lengths, ensuring they are long enough to provide a secure hold.

Attach one side of the Velcro (the hook side) to the recliner cover, sewing it securely along the designated areas. Next, attach the corresponding loop side of the Velcro to the opposite piece of the cover or directly onto the recliner. Make sure to line them up precisely so they align perfectly when attached.

Step 8: Place Your Cover on the Recliner

With all the finishing touches in place, it’s time to see your hard work pay off by placing your new cover onto the recliner.

Start by securing the Velcro strips in place, then stretch out the elastic closures and fit them around their designated areas. With a little bit of adjusting and smoothing, your custom-made recliner cover should now be snugly fitted and ready for use.

Following these steps on how to make a recliner cover will ensure that you have a perfectly fitting, durable and stylish cover for your recliner. With some patience and attention to detail, you can create a custom cover that not only protects your recliner but also adds a personal touch to your living space. Happy sewing!

Extra Tips and Tricks

• If you want to add extra padding or cushioning to your recliner cover, try using quilt batting between layers of fabric when cutting out your pattern pieces.
• For a more secure fit, consider adding ties or buttons to the sides of your cover that can be fastened around the recliner’s frame.
• If you’re using a high-quality and durable fabric, like upholstery fabric, it may not need lining. However, for thinner and less sturdy materials, consider adding a lining layer to add durability and longevity to your cover.
• Don’t hesitate to customize your recliner cover with unique details such as piping, decorative stitching or embroidery for an extra personalized touch.  Remember to have fun and let your creativity shine!  So go ahead and start creating your very own recliner cover today. Happy sewing!

Conclusion

Creating your own recliner cover is a rewarding project that combines practicality with creativity. By following these detailed steps on how to make a recliner cover, you can craft a custom cover that fits your recliner perfectly, enhances its appearance, and extends its life.

Not only will you gain the satisfaction of a job well done, but you’ll also enjoy a personalized piece of home decor that reflects your unique style. Whether you choose to keep it simple or add intricate details, the end result will be a beautiful and functional addition to your living space. Happy sewing!

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