Covering a bench seat cushion is actually quite a simple process. It does require a bit of sewing however, so if you don’t know how to sew then it may be a good idea to consult a professional.
First, take measurements of the cushion you are trying to cover. Measure from edge to edge, top to bottom, and the depth of the cushion. Take these measurements and use them to create a pattern. You can use paper to create the pattern, or you can use fabric and simply trace around the edges of the cushion.
Once you have your pattern, cut the fabric into the correct size based on your measurements. Make sure to allow an extra few inches each side to accommodate the seams.
Next, pin the fabric in place. Make sure you have it facing the right side out, you will then be able to see the pattern when you have finished. After pinning, sew around the edges of the fabric, making sure to leave a gap in the side so you can turn the fabric right side out.
Then, turn the fabric the right way out and stuff the cushion. Make sure the fabric is pulled tight and even to create a neat finish. Once it looks even and is stuffed correctly, sew up the gap that was left earlier.
Finally, you can use ties or buttons to secure the cover to the cushion. This will help to prevent the cover from slipping and will give the cushion a neat, professional look.
What type of fabric is used for bench cushions?
Bench cushions are typically made using cotton, polyester, faux leather, or other synthetic fabrics, depending on the look and feel desired. Cotton fabrics are generally used for simple, light-weight cushions and are available in a wide variety of colors, prints, and textures.
Polyester and other synthetic fabrics tend to be more durable and provide a softer and more luxurious feel, making them ideal for higher-end, plush cushions. Faux leather is also a popular option, offering a stylish and contemporary look for any room.
The type of fabric that is use for bench cushions also depends on the environment that the bench will be placed in, such as outdoor or indoor. Outdoor benches may require waterproof or mildew-resistant fabrics, while indoor benches may require something with more texture or color.
It is also important to consider the wear and tear that the cushion will experience over time. For added longevity, choosing a stain-resistant fabric with advanced UV protection is recommended.
How much does it cost to reupholster a bench cushion?
Reupholstering a bench cushion can be a lengthy and costly process. The cost of reupholstering a bench cushion is largely dependent on the size of the bench and the type of fabric used. For example, if you were reupholstering a small bench of 30-inches wide, the average cost of reupholstery would range from $70 to $175, depending on the fabric used.
If you were reupholstering a larger bench of 3 feet wide, you can expect to pay around $150 to $200, again depending on fabric selection.
In addition to the size, the type of fabric can greatly affect the cost of reupholstering your bench cushion. Of course, you can purchase fabric for relatively cheap prices, but if you choose a nicer or more expensive fabric, this will drive up the overall cost of reupholstery.
For example, if you wanted to use a cotton or twill fabric, you could expect to pay between $8 to $15 per yard. If you wanted to use something fancier, such as velvet or leather, you could expect to pay up to $50 per yard or more.
In addition to the cost of fabric and size, you will also have to factor in labor costs. Professional upholsterers often charge rates of $50 to $100 per hour, so depending on the extent of the project and how long it takes, the labor costs can be significant.
All of these factors combined make it difficult to accurately predict the cost of reupholstering a bench cushion. However, an average estimate would be around $200 to $400 per bench cushion.
What is the fabric to cover a bench?
The best fabric to cover a bench is something that is durable and easy to clean. Depending on where the bench is located you may want to consider something that is water resistant. If the bench is located outdoors, then a waterproof fabric such as vinyl or acrylic is a good option as they are both mildew and abrasion resistant.
For an indoor bench, polyester and cotton blend fabrics are a great choice as they’re soft, easy to clean and can be washable. For extra durability and stain protection, you may want to look into fabrics that have been treated with a soil-release finish.
Additionally, if the bench will be often used, you might want to use a thicker fabric such as leather, nylon or polyester for extra comfort and durability.
Can I use regular fabric for outdoor cushions?
Yes, you can use regular fabric for outdoor cushions. However, it’s important to remember that certain fabrics are more resistant to fading, staining, mildew, and other outdoor elements than others. The best fabrics for outdoor cushions are outdoor-specific fabrics that are specifically designed to stand up to outdoor wear and tear.
Many outdoor-specific fabrics are made of synthetic materials, such as polyester, acrylic, and olefin, that are strong and durable and resist fading, mold, and mildew. They also come in a variety of colors and patterns to give your outdoor cushions a unique look.
Additionally, you may want to consider choosing fabrics with added features such as water-repellent coatings, UV protection, and stain repellents.
What are patio cushions made of?
Patio cushions are typically made of a variety of materials depending on the application or desired look. Outdoor cushions are usually made of heavy-duty, weather-resistant fabric types such as polyester, canvas, vinyl or spun polyester.
Some outdoor cushions may even be constructed from the same materials used for outdoor furniture such as cast aluminum, wicker, teak and wrought iron. Indoor cushions are usually filled with a foam core and wrapped in a synthetic fabric such as polyester or cotton/poly blend.
Sometimes a faux leather fabric is used for an upscale look. Pillow purchased for outdoor use may be filled with poly-fil to provide a light and airy feel, or a poly-fill mix of down feathers and polyester fibers to provide a soft and comfortable feel.
Can you staple fabric to foam?
Yes, you can staple fabric to foam. You will need a low-temperature staple gun that uses staples with a smaller, blunt-tipped end meant specifically for upholstery applications, such as T-50 staples.
It’s important to use the right kind of staples as staples that are too large or have sharper points can easily damage the foam. When stapling the fabric, you should be careful not to pull the fabric too tight, as this can distort the fabric’s shape and cause puckers.
Additionally, you should take care to keep the fabric smooth and taut as you staple it. Both the top and bottom of the fabric should be stapled securely to the foam, to ensure that the fabric will not come loose.
How do you make a removable cushion cover?
Making a removable cushion cover is a relatively simple task that can easily be done at home. The process is as follows:
1. Gather your supplies. You will need the cushion you plan to cover, fabric of your choice, invisible zipper, thread, scissors, pins, and a sewing machine. Consider buying fabric that is a similar weight as the one used on your cushion.
2. Pre-wash the fabric before you begin to sew. Iron out any wrinkles and measure your cushion. Add 2” to each side of the cushion.
3. Cut the fabric using the measurements you calculated in step 2 and make sure that they are even and square.
4. Place the fabric pieces with the right sides (the printed sides) together and pin them around the edges. At this point, you can also add a zipper in the center of one side or use an existing zipper.
5. Sew around the edge of the fabric using a zipper foot and an invisible zipper stitch. Make sure to leave a gap in the center of one side so that you can insert the cushion.
6. Turn the fabric right side out and insert the cushion. Close the gap with pins and then sew it with a needle and thread.
7. Pull the fabric taught on the cushion and seam the top with a decorative stitch.
That’s all there is to it! You now have a beautiful, removable cushion cover that can be easily taken off for cleaning.
What material do you use to cover a bench seat?
When covering a bench seat, there are a variety of materials that you can use. Typically, people use foam and fabric upholstery. The foam provides comfort and support while the fabric is used to add a bit of character or style.
If you’re looking for something a bit more durable, you might consider using leather or vinyl. Both of these materials provide a high level of durability, although leather tends to be more comfortable.
You may also want to consider outdoor fabric for outdoor seating, as it is designed to hold up against moisture and wear and tear. Finally, you may also choose to use pre-made covers that often come with a combination of fabric and foam.
How do I attach a seat cushion to a bench?
Attaching a seat cushion to a bench typically requires some basic hand tools. Before you begin, make sure the hardware you need is available. The most common hardware used for seat cushions include screws and bolts with washers and lock nuts, though you’ll also want to make sure you have the appropriate drill bit and drill.
If the cushion is designed with pre-drilled holes, begin by aligning the holes on the cushion with the surface underneath. You can make these alignments with your hand or use a level. Once the alignment is correct, get your drill and begin adding screws or bolts into the pre-drilled holes.
Be sure to use a washer and lock nut in order to create a secure hold. To finish off, use a wrench to tighten the nuts securely into place.
If you’re working with a cushion that doesn’t have pre-drilled holes, you’ll need to create the holes yourself. Do this by using the appropriate drill bit for the screws or bolts you’ll be using. Once the holes have been drilled, use a level to make sure your alignments are accurate before attaching the screws/bolts.
As with pre-drilled cushions, be sure to use a washer and lock nut and tighten securely with a wrench for a secure hold.