How to Cover Old Sofas & Loveseats

Determine what color or design you'd like for your old sofa and loveseat. Keep in mind that a sofa is one of the main focal points of any sitting room; choose a color or design that complements your room decor. Recognize that how the fabric feels is just as important as how it looks. Pick something you'll want to sit on, lounge on and look at for months to come.

Measure your old loveseat and sofa. Use a tape measure to determine the length, width and height of your couch and its cushions. Take your measurements to a fabric or furniture store and pick out material to cover your sofa. Keep in mind you can either purchase a ready-made slipcover, or you can stitch together fabric to create your own. Some ready-made sofa covers come in one piece of stretchy material; others come in three pieces for the back, base and cushions of your couch. Fabric choices for your couch covers will likely include cotton, silk, linen, twill, chenille, suede and denim.

Use inexpensive alternatives to cover your old sofa and loveseat, if purchasing a ready-made couch cover or buying fabric to make your own cover isn't an option. Use sheets or lightweight comforters to cover your couch. Drape the sheet or comforter over your sofa and tuck the excess parts into the cushions to get a tight fit. Use two sheets or blankets if necessary, one for the back of the couch and one for the seat cushions. Even with this inexpensive option, you can choose sheets or comforters with colors and patterns that complement your room decor. One benefit to using sheets or comforters to cover your couch is that they're easily machine washed or replaced in case they get damaged or stained.