Sewing a cushion is as simple as that!
Do you have an old sewing machine at home? And an old curtain, shirt or fabric of some kind? That's perfect! That's all it takes to sew a beautiful cushion cover.
In three episodes, Anne shows us how to sew different things yourself. For her first, Anne chose to make a cushion cover. In the video, she shows us how to do it: four seams are all you need. Anyone can do it!
If you don't have a sewing machine yet? Don't worry, it doesn't have to be expensive. In our shop, you'll find sewing machines for under 150. You can already do lots of projects with them. The more expensive models certainly have their advantages, but if you don't need all those countless programs, the built-in computer won't be much use to you. But maybe your neighbour has a sewing machine and you can borrow it for an afternoon.
Equipment needed:
- Sewing machine
- Thread (best to use a similar colour to the fabric)
- Scissors
- Chalk pencil
- Pins
- Meter
Step 1: prepare the fabric
Our cushion cover will be wallet style, meaning there is no need to add a zip or buttons to hold the cushion inside.
The fabric required depends on the dimensions of the cushion to be covered. As a general rule, add one centimetre on each side for seam allowances. Example: if the cushion measures 48x48 cm, you'll need 50 cm of fabric.
In the length, add one centimetre on each side.
In the length, the measurements are taken as follows: front (number 3 in the image below) + back (2) + flap (1). The flap is, at 25cm, very large. So if your fabric is only 50 cm x 115 cm, it's not a problem! Mark and measure using the tape measure and chalk pencil.
In addition to the fabric to be cut, we also advise you to mark the sides of the cushion and the flap (on the reverse side of the fabric).
Tip: a pencil as used for jass, or a piece of sharpened soap also work perfectly.
Step 2: pin and sew the margins
To begin, you need to sew the two short sides. These form the opening of the cover, and we wouldn't want the fabric to fray at this point. Make a hem of about 1 cm by folding over the wrong side of the fabric. Secure the hem with pins. If it doesn't work the first time, the ruler and iron are perfect for keeping the margins in place. Using the sewing machine, sew along the hem. To make sure the seam holds, it's a good idea, at the beginning and end of the seam, to sew a little backwards.
While you're sewing, go with the fabric to get a straight, smooth seam. We recommend selecting a straight stitch. If, during sewing, the thread creases the fabric, it may be that the thread tension is too high or the thread is too thick. You can find out more in the instructions for your sewing machine.
Repeat this step on the other side.
Tip: remember to stick the pins in such a way that you can easily remove them while you're sewing. That is, with the heads of the pins towards you.
Step 3: fold the fabric properly
Place the fabric in front of you so that the back of it is facing upwards, then fold the flap (1) over the back of the cushion (2). Then gently turn the whole so that the right side of the fabric is on top. Fold the back (2) over the front (3). Turn over again. Now you can see the flap that comes in the middle of part 2.
The work has to be done precisely! Anne shows you how to do it in the video from 1:05 minute.
Next, fold part 3 to the back:
Pin the two open sides of the cushion again so the fabric doesn't move when you sew.
Step 4: sew the sides
It's almost done! Sew the cushion at the top and bottom about 1cm from the edge. Again, remember to reverse at the beginning and end of the seam so that it's strong.
Turn the cushion right side out. Tadaaa! Your brand new cover is finished.
Tip for parents
A great gift! Take a sheet and, with your child paint unique designs: feet, hands, leaves or paint marks à la Jackson Pollock - let your imagination run wild. A little fabric paint is all you need.
I'm the master tamer at the flea circus that is the editorial team, a nine-to-five writer and 24/7 dad. Technology, computers and hi-fi make me tick. On top of that, I’m a rain-or-shine cyclist and generally in a good mood.