Supplies for Reupholstering Outdoor Furniture

Sewing Machine and Supplies

• 1

  Consider an update to a newer sewing machine if you plan to do your own sewing. Most new models accommodate outdoor fabrics better and give you greater latitude in adjusting the bobbin tension so that the mechanisms that operate the needle and thread will work more efficiently and prevent the fabric from catching under the sewing plate and forcing you to tug as you stitch. This will especially come in handy when sewing canvas and vinyl.

• 2

  Find sewing pressure foots made to fit your sewing machine that handle heavy fabrics to provide greater maneuverability while sewing. Include a zipper foot for basic outdoor fabrics and a walking, rolling or Teflon foot for vinyl.

• 3

  Get heavy needles for your sewing machine that can handle heavy outdoor fabrics and threads. One popular choice is the number 18 Jeans needle, used for denim.

• 4

  Use the heaviest threads that your machine can handle when sewing outdoor fabrics. They are stronger and less prone to come loose. Two good choices are V69 for a traditional home sewing machine and V92 if you have a commercial-quality sewing machine.

Outdoor Fabrics

• 5

  Look for outdoor fabrics that are water-resistant and canvas fabrics with vinyl linings when reupholstering cushions for chairs, outdoor sofas and chaise lounges. Fabrics with vinyl lining will also prevent moisture from seeping through and getting cushions wet.

• 6

  Choose denim-backed and vinyl laminates when you need extra durability. Denim-backed fabrics are sturdy, yet comfortable, and can stand up to rugged use and active outdoor activities. Vinyl laminates are two-ply fabrics with vinyl on both sides that make a good choice for reupholstering awnings.

• 7

  Get one or more protective sprays designed for use with your cushion fabrics to extend their life. Look for sprays that protect from stains, spills, and UV-damage from sunlight to reduce premature fading and discoloration. Marine supply stores are a good place to shop for fabric sprays for outdoor furniture reupholstering projects.

Pattern-Making Supplies

• 8

  Stock your toolbox with a variety of measuring devices. Include a vinyl coated manual tape measure, a retractable tape measure, a straight edge steel ruler, yardstick, and a framer’s square. These measuring instruments appear frequently on “things you’ll need” lists for various upholstering projects.

• 9

  Stock various cutting instruments, including pinking shears, heavy-duty scissors, a utility knife, seam ripper and a supply of single-edge razor blades.

• 10

  Add markers and chalk to your upholstery toolbox for drawing patterns and templates onto fabrics and paper.

• 11

  Keep a supply of inexpensive cotton fabrics (selections from remnant bins will suffice) and even brown paper or wax paper on hand to create patterns and templates. When you remove old fabrics from cushions, make a pattern for reupholstering projects and store it in a file for future reference.