What if you had a recliner, but it needed an update? You could buy a new one that is perfect for your home and style, or you could give the old one a makeover.
One way to spruce up your furniture piece is by adding on something creative and stylish- like a slipcover! In this article, we will show you how to make a slipcover from a bed sheet.
Steps on Making a Slipcover From a Bedsheet for a Recliner
Step 1. Measure the chair and bed sheet, adding an inch for seam allowance. Cut two pieces of fabric to size
Step 2. Iron one side of each piece in half (lengthwise) then fold it over a little more than halfway on itself so that you have four layers total: top layer, three underlayers.
Step 3. Sew around the perimeter, leaving an opening in the side for turning right-side out. Now turn it so that the seams are on top
Step 4. Sew up one end of your slipcover and then fold over a little more than halfway to secure.
Step 5. Tuck those unfinished edges into the seam at the bottom of both fabric pieces. Then sew close enough to the edge so that the fabric doesn’t pull out.
Step 6. Sew around a little more than halfway up one of the open sides to close it off, then repeat on the other side. You should now have two solid seams and an opening in between them at each end. Now take your bedsheet and lay it over one piece with right sides facing and pin in place.
Step 7. Sew around the edge of your slipcover, leaving an opening for turning the right side out so that you can turn it inside out without having to wrestle with a corner or seam again.
Step 8. Attach your Slipcover and enjoy.
What is Slipcover for a Recliner?
A slipcover is a piece of furniture covering that protects the upholstery from everyday wear and tear. It also adds style or color to an old recliner chair. Slipcovers are typically made from cotton, polyester, linen, or silk fabrics but they can be made out of any fabric you want.
How to Care for Recliner Slipcover?
Caring for your slipcover is very easy. All you need to do is vacuum it regularly and if there are any spills, just blot up the spill with a clean wet towel or dishcloth then let air dry so that no stains develop. You might also want to throw in an occasional steam cleaning as well on areas where dirt has built up.
How to Prevent Stains on Recliner Slipcovers
To prevent stains on your recliner slipcovers, you can do a few things:
#1. Avoid wearing any dark or light-colored clothing that might stain the cover
#2. Keep food and drinks away from the chair. Don’t allow pets to sit at it either because they will make messes all over the fabric.
#3. If there are any spills, just blot up the spill with a clean wet towel or dishcloth then let air dry so that no stains develop
#4. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and dust from your slipcover. If you have time, try giving it an occasional steam cleaning too on those areas where dirt has built up over time.
#5. Another way to keep your slipcover looking like new is by using a fabric softener. It will remove any of the residual oils that have built up on the material as well as those stubborn stains and wrinkles
#6. You can also use a protection spray, such as Scotchgard Protector for Leather & Fabric (no matter what type of fabric your slipcover is made from).
#7. Do not use vinegar to clean your bedsheet or the fabric may weaken.
#8. If you want to wear them, wash and dry all of these items in a machine before adding them together.
#9. Some people find it easier if they cut their sheets so that there are no bunching up areas. If you need to wash your sheet, be sure to use a gentle detergent and cold water
Best Material for Slipcover
Vinyl so it won’t show wrinkles or stains, but this may not be as comfortable. If using vinyl, make sure that the fabric is sturdy enough to cover without tearing the material unless you want to use glue. The best part is that it’s stain-resistant. The downside of vinyl though is if you want a nice fabric feel then this can be too stiff for some people
If using material like linen, make sure they’re tightly woven so there are no gaps in between. Cheap materials like sheets are not woven tightly and will leave gaps
A cotton blend fabric is a good option, it’s comfortable and affordable. If you use this material make sure that the weave of the material isn’t too loose or else there will be holes in your slipcover.
Can I Iron My Slipcover?
You can iron your slipcover, but be careful not to use too much heat, or else it’ll melt the vinyl material. The best way is to put a cotton towel over the fabric and then press down on top of that with an iron.