Choose a print or color that matches your table and existing dining room decor. Opt for an easy-to-clean fabric, like a cotton-polyester blend, if you have children or expect spills or messes. Feel free to wash and iron the pillowcases before using them.
If you want to add extra foam or padding to the cushion, make the pillowcase cover larger to account for the foam.
Put your first staple in the middle of each side and work out toward the edges. Be sure to keep the fabric taut! Use fabric scissors to trim any excess fabric away.
To spruce up the chair even more, wrap flat ribbon around the center of the pillowcase and tie it in a knot or bow at the back of the chair. You could even add a decorative pin over the knot, if desired.
Add at least 1 inch (2. 5 cm) to each measurement (the width and the total length) to ensure you have enough fabric to cover the entire chair. This project works best for dining room chairs, folding chairs, and banquet chairs.
If you don’t want to hem the edges, choose a fabric that doesn’t fray when cut, like tulle, jersey, or velvet. On average, you’ll need about 2 yards of fabric per chair. [9] X Research source
If you chose a fabric that frays when cut, you can hem the raw edges or use a product like Fray Check.
If the chair has a wider top or base, find where the chair tapers in to tie the sash, so that it does not slide up or down as the person sits in it. Attach a flower, herb stalk, or decorative pin in the center of the knot if desired. Using a scarf is another option for a sash on a chair. You could use scarves with complementary colors that pick up the color theme of the room or event.
On average, you’ll need 3-4 yards of fabric to cover an armchair.
Alternatively, you could measure each section of the chair and use the measurements to make your pattern. Label each piece of the pattern so you don’t get confused later on.
Use the edge of a ruler as a guide when drawing straight lines. If you’re using printed fabric, make sure the pattern matches up in a way you like.
Wipe away the tailor’s chalk with a cloth when you are done.
