Category Archives: slipcover fabrics

Fabric Pattern Mixing with Slipcovers

Fritz Cotton Linen Custom Slipcover

Putting together a harmonious combination of fabric patterns and furnishings comes naturally to artist and painter Mary Bommarito.

So it’s no surprise her new stripe slipcovers look right at home with her cabbage rose rug, botanical print pillows and grain sack-like upholstered pieces.

For this project, I used washed Richloom Fritz Persimmon. This understated stripe in rustic cotton linen is big on texture and rich color. It mixes easily with florals, geometrics, large scale stripes and small checks.  Continue reading →

How Long Will My Slipcover Last?

Durable Slipcover Sectional SlipcoverHello everyone! In today’s post I want to answer your most frequently asked questions about slipcover longevity:

  • How many years will my slipcover fabric hold up?
  • Can a slipcover made in the most durable fabric be washed every month, or more frequently, and still maintain its fit and function?

Now, I can talk your ear off about washable slipcover fabrics — which weaves and weights are most durable under normal wear and tear, what to expect in terms of shrinkage and wrinkle and how the fabric looks & feels after washed. I even include a “best used for…” recommendation in my reviews of favorite washable fabrics.

But, what I can’t tell you is exactly how long your slipcover fabric will last. In fact, fabric manufactures and retailers don’t have the answer either. Here’s why… Continue reading →

Slipcover Makeover for this Craigslist Find

Old Henredon Sofa With New Slipcover

I think this project is THE slipcover makeover of the summer! What a transformation!

My customer found this big, comfy Henredon sofa on Craigslist complete with thick quilted floral upholstery. There was no doubt in her mind that a washable, white denim slipcover would give it the style boost it needed to fit right in with her other white slipcovered furniture and vintage eclectic decor.

For this custom cover, I used 12 oz white cotton bull denim from Big Duck Canvas and trimmed it with navy bull denim.  Both fabrics were factory seconds but you’d never know it — very good quality and no major flaws.

I changed the outdated kiss-pleat design on the back cushions to a narrow boxing and updated the skirt with 8″ wide box pleats all the way around.  It’s those little details that make all the difference.

Tip: if you want to use a dark color welt trim on your light color slipcover be sure to test it first for crocking and bleeding.

Slipcover Style: Indigo Ikats

Cotton Ikat Prints for Slipcovers

There’s no doubt a slipcover made in an Ikat print is truly a statement piece. Just look at Pam Morris’s camel back sofa and armchair above. Stunning, right? Especially in those inky blues.

These home decor prints are inspired by woven Ikat designs that use a resist dye method on the yarns before weaving the pattern. Ikat prints do a good job of capturing the tie-dyed look of the woven version. They’re good mixers, too. Don’t be shy about combining your favorite Ikat with other patterns such as stripes, checks and small dobby designs like French General’s Ikat Pointe.

Look for Ikats printed on medium weight duck/canvas in 100% cotton or a linen blend. They work well for slipcovers that get moderate use and occasional wash.

Slipcover Cotton Ikat Prints

Ikat fabric images from Fabric.com

Here are a few Ikat options I curated for your next slipcover project — clockwise from upper left:

As always, if you plan on making a washable slipcover be sure to do a wash and dry test on a one yard sample before you commit to purchasing your yardage.