How I Slipcovered This Tricky Attached Back Chair

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Arhaus Chair Before Slipcover MakeoverFiguring out the best way to slipcover this attached back chair was a puzzle at first.

Should I detach the two back cushions and replace them with one loose slipcovered cushion?  Or, if I leave the cushions attached should I cover them separately? Or, cover them as one?

I chewed on those questions for several days after receiving Priscilla’s photos of her Arhaus chair. And, even then I wasn’t coming up with a definite answer!

The problem was I couldn’t tell from her pictures if it was feasible to remove the back cushions. Some pillow-style back cushions should not be detached. Read why. I also couldn’t get a sense of how deep the tuck-ins were at the side and bottom or how they were shaped.

When the chair arrived at my workroom I was able to pull and poke at those cushions from every direction. I could see and feel how they were attached. I had my answer! Continue reading →

The Slipcover Maker’s Guide to Making Welt Cord

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How To Make Slipcover Welt Cord

Welt cord is one of the most popular trims used on slipcovers. It gives definition to seams and adds a tailored finish.

Trimming your slipcover with welt cord is a personal choice. It’s more decorative than functional even though it does a pretty good job at adding strength to seams.

You can make the bias fabric strips for your cord with self-fabric (the same as your slipcover) or contrast.  For the cord itself I recommend a medium firm poly tissue core wrapped in a braided cover, size 5/32.  Get resources here.

There is more than one method to make welt cord. I’ve tried them all! But at the end of the day here’s the one that works best for me. Continue reading →

How To Design Your Slipcover Like a Pro

Taupe Cotton Denim Couch Slipcover

When you look at a before and after slipcover photo what do you notice?

My guess is it’s the fabric and color that catches your eye first. Then the fit, right?

What you might not see right away are the many subtle design details that went into making the slipcover look and perform it’s best. They are creative updates and functional fixes that make all the difference between a so-so slipcover and one that is awe inspiring.

How do you know which design details to add, omit or improve when you make a slipcover?

I’ll use Leah & Scott’s sofa project as an example to show you how I do it.

Continue reading →