How To Make A Cover For Outdoor Furniture

How to Create a Protective Cover for Outdoor Furniture

Protecting your outdoor furniture from the elements is essential for ensuring its longevity and maintaining its aesthetic appeal. A well-made cover offers protection from rain, snow, dust, and UV rays, extending the life of your prized outdoor pieces.

Materials Required

Waterproof fabric (such as canvas, vinyl, or Sunbrella)
Sewing machine and thread
Measuring tape or ruler
Scissors
Heavy-duty cord or rope
Cord locks (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and Cut the Fabric: Measure the length, width, and height of your furniture piece. Add approximately 4 inches to each measurement for seam allowance and overlap.

2. Create the Cover Panels: Cut the fabric into three panels: the top, the front, and the back. The top should be the combined length and width of the furniture, while the front and back should be the combined height and length.

3. Sew the Panels Together: With right sides facing, sew the front and back panels to the top panel along the edges. Leave an opening on one end of the back panel for the cord.

4. Hem the Edges: Fold over the raw edges of the fabric by 1 inch and press. Fold over again by 1 inch and topstitch to create a sturdy hem.

5. Create a Cord Tunnel: If desired, fold over the top edge of the back panel by 2 inches and press. Stitch to create a channel for the cord.

6. Thread the Cord: Cut a length of cord that is twice the perimeter of the furniture opening, plus 12 inches for tying. Thread the cord through the channel and tie a knot at one end.

7. Secure the Cord: Pull the cord through the opening at the end of the back panel and tie another knot.

8. Install Cord Locks (Optional): For added security, install cord locks on the ends of the cord to prevent it from slipping out of the tunnel.