How to Make Your Own Cushion Covers for Sectional Sofas

Remove the existing cover on the cushion by unzipping and pulling off the cover.

Measure the cushion you want to cover carefully. Take measurements of the width and length of each side of the cushion and make a note of these measurements on a sheet of paper nearby.

Lay out the fabric you want to use for the covers. Mark out the measurements you noted from the actual cushion on the fabric. Now mark 1/2 inch in addition to each measurement for a seam allowance. Using the tracing paper and wheel, mark these as seam lines with the straight edge. If the fabric is large enough, you can use one piece and make seams on three edges, with the front edge remaining solid with the fabric folded over the cushion. If the fabric is not large enough, make separate pieces for the top and bottom and sew them together.

Place the cushion on the fabric, then fold the fabric around the cushion with the inside facing out so you see the seam lines you marked. Make sure these measurements fit the cushion and line up evenly. Remember the seam allowance overlap at this stage before you sew the cover together. If it does not, the fabric is too short. Make any measurement and seam line adjustments now and remark the fabric if necessary.

Remove the cushion from the fabric once you check it for fit and make any necessary measurement adjustments. Cut the fabric and pin together with right sides facing one another. Determine the placement of your zipper on the seam. Choose a location where the zipper is not visible such as an end or the back of the cushion. The zipper should be large enough for the cushion to be put inside of the cover. Pin the zipper in place.

Sew the seams with the machine, using a tight heavy duty stitch. Furniture needs to have solid stitching in the fabric since it takes constant use. Stitch the zipper into place, with the zipper open and each half being sewn on opposing edges of the cover. The seam is not closed where the zipper is placed, instead the edges are sewn to the inside of the zipper and the zipper is the closure.

Clip the corners of the cushion cover where excess fabric bunches together once you turn the cover inside out. Clip only outside the seam allowance on the fabric edge. Turn the cover inside out.

Slide the cushion inside the cover and adjust it to fit neatly into the shape of the cover. Zip it closed over the cushion.