How to Make a Desk Slipcover

Measure the desk length from the floor on the side, over and across the top and down the opposite side to the floor with a flexible measuring tape. Increase the length measurement by 1 inch for the bottom hem and write down the numbers.

Measure the desk width from the floor in front of the desk, over the top to the back and down the back to the floor behind the desk. Increase the width measurement by 1 inch for the bottom hem.

Cut a large rectangle from the fabric with a scissors, using the measurements for the desk length and width.

Affix four loops of painters tape evenly across the top of the desk and drape the rectangle over the desk so it hangs evenly on all sides. Press the fabric onto the tape loops to hold it in place while you work on the slipcover.

Pull one corner of fabric at a diagonal from the desk, so the corner is flush with the top surface of the desk. Pin the fabric together in a line from the top corner of the desk to the bottom corner on the floor. The fabric pulled from the desk should be a rectangle shape. Avoid pulling the fabric off the tape that is holding it in the correct place on the desk to prevent an uneven slipcover.

Repeat the process of pulling the corner of fabric upward and pinning along the edge of the desk. The pin marks create the sewing lines for the slipcover, creating a box shape out of the fabric.

Check the four fabric edges to verify the pins are straight and the slipcover looks even. Adjust how the slipcover is hanging on the desk before sewing along the pin line.

Pull the slipcover off the desk and sew along the pin line with a straight stitch. Remove the pins as you sew to prevent damaging the sewing machine.

Drape the slipcover over the desk and verify the shape fits as expected. This is your last chance to adjust the sewing lines.

Remove the slipcover from the desk and cut the excess fabric off the corners, leaving a 1/2-inch selvedge next to the sewing line. Finish the seams with a zig zag or serger, or cut the edge with pinking shears to prevent fraying.

Fold 1/4 inch of the bottom edge to the wrong side of the slipcover. Pin or press the fabric with an iron to hold in place. Fold the fabric over 1/2 inch to make a clean edge and pin or press with an iron to hold it in place. Sew along the hem with a straight stitch to secure it in place.