How To Recover Outdoor Swing Cushions From Wall

Outdoor swing cushions are a delightful addition to any backyard, providing comfort and style. However, over time, these cushions can become stained, faded, or simply worn out. Replacing them can be expensive, but there is a more cost-effective solution: recovering them. Recovering outdoor swing cushions can breathe new life into your swing set and allow you to enjoy its comfort for years to come.

This process involves removing the existing fabric, measuring for new fabric, cutting the fabric, sewing the fabric together, and attaching the fabric to the cushion. The project may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little patience, it is a manageable task for even novice sewers.

Gather Your Supplies

Before embarking on your recovering journey, gather the necessary supplies. This will ensure a smooth and successful project. The materials you'll need include:

Old cushion covers: Remove the existing fabric from the cushions. This will serve as a template for cutting your new fabric.
New fabric: Choose a durable and weather-resistant fabric suitable for outdoor use. Options include Sunbrella, acrylic, or canvas. Remember to consider the style and color that complements your existing swing set and backyard decor.
Sewing machine: Ensure your sewing machine is in good working order with a sturdy needle capable of handling thick fabric. You may need a specialized needle for heavier fabrics.
Sewing thread: Select thread that matches the new fabric and is strong enough for outdoor use. Consider using a heavy-duty thread for added durability.
Scissors or fabric shears: These will be used for precise cutting of the new fabric.
Measuring tape: Used to measure your old cushion covers and the new fabric.
Fabric marking pen: For marking the fabric before cutting.
Safety pins: Securely hold the fabric together before sewing.
Zipper: For easy removal and cleaning, consider adding a zipper to the cushion cover. Choose a sturdy, weather-resistant zipper.
Staple gun: If the cushion cover is attached to the cushion with staples, a staple gun is necessary to reattach the new fabric.

Prepare and Measure

Once you have gathered your supplies, you can start preparing the old cushions.

Remove the old covers: Carefully remove the old fabric from the cushions. Observe how the fabric is attached to the cushions, whether by stitching, stapling, or a combination of both.
Measure the old covers: Use a measuring tape to measure the length, width, and depth of the cushion covers. Take note of the seams and any other specific details, such as zippers or pleats.
Transfer measurements to new fabric: Lay out your new fabric and use a fabric marking pen to mark the measurements obtained from the old cushion covers. Ensure you add seam allowances to the measurements to avoid the fabric being too small.

Cutting and Sewing

With your measurements marked on the new fabric, you can begin cutting and sewing the new covers.

Cut the new fabric: Carefully cut the new fabric according to your marked measurements. Remember to use a rotary cutter or fabric shears to ensure precise cuts.
Sew the fabric together: Stitch the fabric pieces together using your sewing machine. Follow the seams of the old cushion covers to ensure an accurate fit. If you are adding a zipper, install it at this stage.
Finish the seams: For added durability, finish the raw edges of the fabric with a serger or zig-zag stitch to prevent fraying.

Reattaching the Fabric

The final step is reattaching the new fabric to the cushion.

Fit the new cover: Carefully fit the new cushion cover onto the cushion, ensuring it fits snugly.
Secure the fabric: Depending on how the old fabric was attached, reattach the new fabric using either a staple gun or sewing machine. If using a staple gun, ensure you use staples that are long enough to secure the fabric to the cushion.

Conclusion

Recovering outdoor swing cushions is a rewarding project that breathes new life into your swing set. The process can be made even more enjoyable by collaborating with friends or family members, transforming the project into a fun and social activity. With a little patience and effort, you can revitalize your cushions and enjoy their comfort for years to come.