How to Make a Removable Bench Cushion Cover

Are you tired of the same old cushion covers on your bench? Do you want a change but don’t want to commit to one design permanently? A removable bench cushion cover is the answer to all your problems.

How to make a removable bench cushion cover is a practical and straightforward project that can significantly enhance the comfort and aesthetic appeal of your seating area. Whether you have a built-in bench in your dining nook, a window seat, or an outdoor bench, a custom cushion cover allows you to easily update the look of your space or keep your cushions clean and protected.

This project is ideal for beginners and experienced sewists alike, as it requires only basic sewing skills and minimal materials.

This guide will walk you through the steps, from selecting the appropriate fabric to sewing the final stitch.

What Will You Need?

To make a removable bench cushion cover, you will need the following materials:

• Fabric of your choice
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Sewing machine (optional)
• Thread
• Pins or clips
• Zipper (preferably invisible zipper)

10 Easy Steps on How to Make a Removable Bench Cushion Cover

Step 1: Measure Your Bench Cushion

Before starting any sewing project, it is crucial to take accurate measurements. For this project, measure your bench cushion’s length, width, and depth. Add an extra inch to these measurements for seam allowance.

Step 2: Select and Cut Your Fabric

Choosing the right fabric is essential for both the aesthetics and durability of your bench cushion cover. Consider where the cushion will be used.

For an outdoor bench, opt for weather-resistant fabrics like polyester, acrylic, or treated cotton that can withstand exposure to the elements. You might prefer softer textiles like linen, cotton, or velvet for indoor cushions, depending on the desired look and feel.

Once you select your fabric, lay it on a flat surface. Make sure your fabric is wrinkle-free and that the pattern, if any, is aligned correctly. Using the measurements from Step 1, mark the dimensions on the fabric with fabric chalk or a disappearing ink pen. Remember to add the extra inch for seam allowance.

Carefully cut the fabric along the marked lines. You’ll need two pieces of fabric for the top and bottom of the cushion, and add additional pieces if you are covering the sides or using a contrasting fabric for a piped edge. It’s always a good idea to double-check your measurements before cutting to ensure accuracy.

Step 3: Cut the Zipper Opening

The zipper lets you easily remove and wash the cushion cover, making maintenance a breeze. Mark where the zipper will go on one of the shorter edges of the fabric pieces for the top or bottom. The zipper should be a few inches shorter than the width of the cushion to allow for seam allowances and ease of installation.

Carefully cut a slit for the zipper, ensuring it’s centered and straight. It’s important not to cut too close to the edge; leaving about an inch or so on either side is typically sufficient. If you’re using an invisible zipper, make sure it’s long enough to span most of the width for easy removal and replacement of the cushion.

Larger zippers are often easier to work with and more durable, which can prolong the life of your cushion cover.

Step 4: Sew the Zipper

Place the zipper face down along the edge of the slit you just cut. Use pins or clips to hold it in place. If you’re using an invisible zipper, ensure the teeth are hidden beneath the fabric. Using a zipper foot on your sewing machine, sew along the edges of the zipper, making sure to keep the fabric taut and the seam straight.

Sewing by hand is an option if you don’t have a zipper foot, though it will take more time and effort. Be meticulous with your stitches to prevent the zipper from snagging or coming loose. Once sewn, test the zipper several times to ensure it operates smoothly without catching on the fabric.

Step 5: Assemble the Cushion Cover

With the zipper installed, lay the top and bottom pieces of your fabric right sides together. Pin or clip them in place around the edges, ensuring the corners align perfectly. If you’re adding side panels, pin these in now, ensuring they fit snugly between the top and bottom pieces.

Begin sewing at one end of the zipper, around the cushion, and back to the other end of the zipper, maintaining a consistent seam allowance and using a straight stitch. Take extra care at the corners to pivot your needle to ensure sharp, clean angles.

Once the pieces are sewn together, trim any excess fabric from the seam allowance to neaten the edges. For added durability, you may zigzag or use a serger along the raw edges to prevent fraying.

Step 6: Turn the Cover Right Side Out

Carefully turn your cushion cover on the right side out by pulling it through the zipper opening. Push out the corners with your fingers to ensure they are fully extended and crisp.

At this point, ironing the seams to lay flat is beneficial, which will give your cushion cover a professional finish. If you’re adding any decorative elements such as piping or buttons, now is the time to do so before inserting the cushion.

Step 7: Insert the Cushion

Now that your cover is ready, it’s time to insert the cushion. Open the zipper fully and carefully slide the cushion into the cover, making sure the corners of the cushion align with the corners of the cover. Take your time to smooth out any creases or folds in the fabric to ensure a snug and even fit.

If the cushion is particularly large or bulky, you might need to gently push and pull the fabric to get it into place properly. Once the cushion is inside, zip up the cover completely. Give the cushion a few firm presses to help distribute the filling evenly and ensure that the cover fits well.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches

Inspect your cushion cover for any loose threads or minor imperfections. Trim any excess threads and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a clean and professional look. If you opted for decorative elements such as piping, ensure it’s evenly distributed and secure.

Give the entire cushion cover one final press with an iron to remove any wrinkles and set any seams. This step is crucial for achieving a polished finish that enhances the overall appearance of your bench cushion.

Step 9: Test the Fit

Place the cushion on the bench to check the fit and overall appearance. Sit on it and move around to ensure that the cover stays in place and doesn’t shift excessively during use. Make any last-minute adjustments as needed. This step helps ensure that your efforts result in a cushion cover that looks great and is comfortable and functional.

Step 10: Enjoy Your New Bench Cushion Cover

With your new cushion cover in place, take a moment to admire your work. You’ve created a custom, removable cover that adds style and comfort to your bench.

Whether it’s intended for indoor or outdoor use, your handmade cover is sure to enhance the aesthetic and usability of your space. Enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done and the added comfort of your upgraded bench!

By following these steps and taking your time, you can easily create a custom cushion cover that fits your bench perfectly and adds a personal touch to your home decor.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Choosing the Wrong Fabric: Avoid using fabrics that are not durable or suitable for upholstery. Opt for strong, wear-resistant materials that can withstand regular use and cleaning.
2. Incorrect Measurements: Do not guess the measurements of your bench cushion. Always take accurate measurements to ensure a perfect fit. Measure twice to avoid costly mistakes.
3. Skipping the Closure: Avoid omitting a proper closure method, such as zippers, buttons, or Velcro. This can make removing and washing the cover difficult and reduce its practicality.
4. Overlooking Seam Allowances: Ignoring seam allowances can lead to a too-tight cover that doesn’t fit the cushion properly. Always add extra fabric for the seams to ensure a snug fit.
5. Neglecting Pattern Matching: If you are using a patterned fabric, not aligning the patterns can result in a visually unappealing cover. Pay attention to pattern direction and alignment for a professional-looking finish.

By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes when making a bench cushion cover.

Conclusion

How to make a removable bench cushion cover requires attention to detail and careful planning.

By choosing the right fabric, taking precise measurements, incorporating a reliable closure, allowing for seam allowances, and ensuring pattern alignment, you can achieve a cushion cover that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. These steps enhance the durability and usability of your cushion cover and add a professional touch to your project.

By avoiding common pitfalls and adhering to these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a high-quality, custom-made bench cushion cover that meets your needs and enhances your space.