How To Sew Replacement Cushions For Outdoor Furniture

How to Sew Replacement Cushions for Outdoor Furniture

Over time, outdoor furniture cushions can fade, become stained, or simply wear out. Replacing them doesn't have to be an expensive endeavor. With a little sewing skill and the right materials, you can create custom cushions that perfectly fit your furniture and refresh your outdoor space. This guide provides a step-by-step explanation of how to sew replacement cushions for outdoor furniture.

Gather Your Materials

Before you start sewing, gather all the necessary materials. This will ensure a smoother workflow and prevent delays. Here's a list of materials you'll need:

Outdoor fabric: Choose a durable and weather-resistant fabric like Sunbrella, Olefin, or solution-dyed acrylic. These fabrics are resistant to fading, mildew, and water damage.
Polyester fiberfill or foam: Choose a filling that provides the desired level of comfort and support. Polyester fiberfill is lightweight and easy to work with, while foam offers more firmness and structure.
Sewing machine: A standard sewing machine with a strong needle is suitable for this project.
Scissors: Use sharp fabric scissors for precise cuts.
Measuring tape: Accurate measurements are essential for creating cushions that fit perfectly.
Pins: Securely hold fabric pieces together before sewing.
Thread: Choose a thread that matches the color of your fabric.
Zipper: For ease of cushion removal and cleaning, consider adding a zipper to the cushion cover. Choose a weather-resistant zipper.
Optional: You can also use a sewing machine foot specifically designed for sewing thick fabrics or a walking foot to help move the fabric smoothly.

Take Measurements and Create a Pattern

The first step is to accurately measure your existing cushions or the space where you want the new cushions to fit. This ensures a perfect fit for your furniture. Here's how to take the measurements:

Measure the width and length of your existing cushions. If you are creating new cushions, measure the seat or back area where you want the cushions to go.
Measure the depth or thickness of your existing cushion. If you are creating new cushions, decide how deep or thick you want them to be.
Add seam allowances. Add at least ½ inch to each measurement for seam allowances. This allowance will ensure a snug fit after sewing.

Once you have your measurements, create a pattern using paper or cardboard. Draw a rectangle representing the shape of your cushion, incorporating the seam allowances. If you are creating a cushion with a zipper, add an extra section to the pattern for the zipper opening.

Cut and Sew the Cushion Cover

After creating your pattern, lay your fabric out on a flat surface and use your pattern to cut out two identical pieces for the cushion cover. Remember to cut the pieces with the seam allowances included. If you are using a zipper, cut out a rectangular piece of fabric for the zipper opening, taking into account the zipper length and seam allowances.

Pin the two fabric pieces together, right sides facing, along all four edges. If you are using a zipper, pin the zipper opening piece to one side of the cover, right sides facing.

Start sewing along the pinned edges, using a straight stitch with a suitable stitch length. Remember to leave an opening on one side of the cushion cover to insert the filling. If you are using a zipper, sew the zipper along the zipper opening, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Fill and Finish the Cushion

Turn the cushion cover inside out through the opening you left for filling. Insert the desired amount of fiberfill or foam into the cover. Make sure to fill it evenly for a comfortable and balanced cushion.

Once you have filled the cushion, carefully hand-sew the opening closed using a strong stitch. Ensure the stitching is secure and the opening is completely closed.

If you are using a zipper, close the zipper. You may need to press the seams flat with an iron to give the cushions a polished look. Enjoy your freshly sewn outdoor cushions!