Slipcover Replacement: Can your old sofa or chair cover be copied?

Catherine’s old slipcover was cat scratched, stained, shrunk-up and stretched out. At first glance, you might think how in the world can her cover be copied with good results.

Well, despite its worn out condition, her slipcover turned out to be a straightforward pattern to replicate. Here’s why:

Overall Good Fit

The slipcover frame (the body) fit relatively well. It only needed minor fit adjustments — a few simple fixes to restore the original shape, such as adding ease, squaring up corners and raising the slouchy skirt.

Cushion Covers Intact

The overall shape and fit of the back and seat cushion covers could be copied as-is. No additional pattern drafting or guesswork needed.

New Fabric Similar to Original

Slipcover fit translates best when the fabric for the new slipcover is the same or similar weave and weight as the original. Catherine’s old cover was made with a sturdy cotton denim. For her slipcover copy, I used this durable, washable 12 oz cotton bull denim from Big Duck Canvas.

See more slipcover copies I’ve created and learn what else to consider when it’s time to have your old slipcover copied.