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Couches and other upholstery take a lot of wear and tear, especially in families with crafty, snack-eating children. Since replacing worn furniture is expensive and environmentally taxing, consider a slipcover for a more budget- and eco-friendly way to freshen up worn furniture.
Whether the goal is to cover up stains or to protect surfaces from the get-go, adding a slipcover is a simple solution that DIYers can craft at home. Plenty of DIY slipcover projects can inspire—from no-sew options for beginners to those requiring a bit more skill. Common slipcover fabrics like cotton, polyester, nylon, and linen go into looks that range from loose draping to more fitted options.
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1. DIY Couch Slipcover
A simple neutral canvas slipcover can quickly modernize a dated couch with a clean, relaxed look. Experienced sewers will love this step-by-step tutorial from Honeybear Lane on how to make a couch cover. Slipcovers tend to look messy, but this version includes separate cushion covers for a more tailored look. Add some fun throw pillows or quilts for a pop of color.
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2. No-Pattern DIY Chair Slipcover
Sometimes all it takes to revive a set of old dining chairs is some simple covering. Blogger Sarah from She Holds Dearly says that making a slipcover is more accessible than some might think. Her tutorial simplifies the process by removing the need for a pattern. She says this method can be used on other items, such as a footstool or a sectional. While a sewing machine is not required, basic sewing skills are helpful for this one.
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3. No-Sew Bench Cushion Cover
Everyone loves a bench for a design accent or kitchen seating. It’s also simple to swap out the fabric, so it’s the perfect place to integrate a trendy textile design without a big commitment. Ideal for beginners, this tutorial from Designed Simple offers step-by-step directions for a simple, no-sew cover that can be completed in a couple of hours.
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4. Ottoman Slipcover With Pom-Pom Trim
While a worn-out ottoman can be an eyesore, a freshly covered one can add the perfect design accent to a room. Check out this adorable cover with pom-pom trim from blogger Diane Henkler of In My Own Style. Her tutorial offers crafters simple step-by-step directions on how to complete the project without too much sweat. This method also works without the pom-pom trim for those who want a simpler look.
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5. Sectional Slipcover How-to
The cozy family sectional is almost guaranteed to take on a lot of wear and tear, and replacing it can be costly and create a great deal of waste. Extend the life of a newer one or refresh a previously loved couch with a slipcover. Making a slipcover for a sectional seems intimidating, but this tutorial from Confessions of a Serial DIYer will help. This project requires some sewing know-how and a bit of elbow grease, but the end result will be worth it.
6. Sewing Pattern for Chair Covers
For sewers who want to get started but could use a helping hand, a sewing pattern can simplify the process. It will provide a template for laying out the design and cutting the fabric before sewing. This Simplicity chair cover pattern from CatiesCraftingShop at Etsy will work for multiple chair styles, including dining, office, and even folding chairs. Users appreciate that it’s easy to follow and offers lots of variations.
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7. No-Sew Drop Cloth Slipcover
A drop cloth doesn’t have to be just for catching stray paint drops. Its weight and affordability also make it an excellent slipcover material. This tutorial on The Simple Farmhouse blog makes it easy to DIY. No need to sign up for that sewing class just yet. This couch slipcover solution uses safety pins to secure it in place.
8. DIY Faux Fur Chair Covers
Faux fur accents can help make any space cozy and inviting, and the softness makes them perfect for chair coverings. This tutorial on A Beautiful Mess blog teaches readers how to make a luxurious fur covering for basic dining chairs. One major perk is that these covers tie on, so they are simple to remove before dinners with children and pasta sauce.
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9. Slipcover Settee
For decorators short on space, a settee offers the perfect sofa option for two and works great as seating in larger bedrooms. To change a settee’s style to match any decor, consider crafting a simple slipcover. This tutorial from Centsational Style uses linen and includes an adorable bottom pleat.
10. No-Sew Slipcovers for Outdoor Seating
Outdoor chairs take a beating; between weather and wet bathing suits, upkeep for cushions can be a real pain. One way to keep them looking fresh is by adding a cover before guests arrive. Crafters with some extra beach towels lying around will love these DIY outdoor chair covers featured on In My Own Style. The tutorial is super simple, requiring zero sewing skills.
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