It all starts with the right chair. When you're picking one
out, adapt an old speechmaker's trick: Imagine the chair
naked. Concentrate on the overall shape instead of the crummy
crushed velvet upholstery. Keep in mind that chairs with
simple, straight lines will be easier to slipcover, which will
save time if you make it yourself and money if you hire it
out. Also, a bargain is no bargain if it's falling apart. Sit
in the chair. Do the joints wobble? Are the springs sprung?
Will the padding or foam need to be replaced? If so, it may
not be worth the money or effort.
Before
How-To Hint:
If you're comfortable sewing clothing
from patterns, you probably can tackle a slipcover. How-to and
pattern books can help you get started, with guidance on
everything from measuring to sewing techniques. Though it's
extra work, be sure to cut and pin a pattern from muslin or an
old bed sheet to get the fit just right before you slice into
pricier yardage.
After
Blue Moves
Don't spoil a slipcover with the wrong fabric.
Choose a sturdy fabric that's closely woven so it won't ravel
or stretch. Linen, chintz, ticking, denim, and any
medium-weight cotton are good choices. Avoid heavy upholstery
fabrics, which are hard to sew, especially if you have piping.
Keep in mind that fabrics with a predominant motif or
repeating pattern, such as a stripe, plaid, or floral bouquet,
require extra planning and yardage. Be sure your fabric is
preshrunk before you cut it.
Before
How-To Hint:
Even with new covers, old chairs need
prep work. Vacuum using a nozzle attachment to go deep into
crevices. Remove any loose staples and pound in protruding
nails. Spot-clean any stains. Extra padding can add comfort,
smooth over any buttons and channeling, and make a slipcover
fit more snugly. Cut polyester batting to fit over back, arms,
and cushions; it will cling without pinning.
After
Mellow Yellow
Knowing how much fabric to buy is tricky. Since
every chair is different, measuring is the only way to be
sure. Slipcover books and patterns have guides to help you
figure yardage. As a general rule, you'll need about 11 yards
of 44- to 54-inch fabric (one that doesn't require matching)
for a skirted armchair, 26 yards for a 6- to 7-foot sofa, and
19 yards for a love seat. Remember to buy extra for any piping
or other trim. To save on yardage, use wider fabric, eliminate
the skirt, or use a contrasting, ready-made piping.
Sewing slipcovers isn't for
everyone. Start with something simple like a dining room chair
or ottoman and work up to more complicated projects. If you
don't have the talent or time, there are plenty of
professionals who can make covers for you. Keep in mind that
custom slipcovers often cost as much as reupholstering.
Before
How-To Hint:
Fabrics with large repeats need extra yardage
for matching the pattern. For a 3- to 12-inch repeat, purchase
an extra 3/4 yard for a chair, 1 yard for a love seat, and 1
1/2 yards for a sofa. If the repeat is more than 12 inches,
double these amounts. To estimate for ready-made piping,
measure the running length of the existing seams, then add 1
yard for seam allowances and error.
