DIY Desk Chair Cover Materials & Methods: Desk Chair Cover Diy
Making a custom desk chair cover is a fantastic way to personalize your workspace and protect your chair from wear and tear. This guide will walk you through choosing the right materials, measuring your chair, and sewing a few different styles of covers.
Suitable Materials for Desk Chair Covers
Choosing the right fabric is crucial for both the look and longevity of your chair cover. Different materials offer varying levels of durability, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal. Consider your budget and desired style when making your selection.
| Material | Durability | Cost | Appearance | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Moderate; prone to wrinkles but durable with proper care. | Low to Moderate | Versatile; available in many colors and patterns. | Easy to sew; readily available. |
| Polyester | High; resists wrinkles and stains. | Moderate to High | Can appear slightly less natural than cotton; wide range of colors and textures. | Easy to sew; less prone to fraying. |
| Linen | Moderate to High; strong and durable but can wrinkle easily. | Moderate to High | Luxurious and textured appearance; often has a slightly slubby texture. | Moderate; can be slightly more challenging to sew due to its texture. |
| Velvet | Moderate; susceptible to snags but luxurious and durable. | Moderate to High | Rich and plush; adds a touch of elegance. | Moderate; requires careful handling to avoid snagging. |
| Faux Leather | High; very durable and easy to clean. | High | Modern and sleek; mimics the look of real leather. | Moderate; can be more challenging to sew due to its thickness and lack of give. Requires a heavy-duty sewing machine needle. |
Creating a Simple Fitted Desk Chair Cover, Desk chair cover diy
This section details how to create a basic slipcover. Remember to pre-wash your fabric to prevent shrinkage after completion.
- Measure your chair: (See detailed instructions in the next section.) Record all measurements carefully.
- Cut your fabric: Using your measurements, cut two large pieces of fabric for the seat and back, and two smaller pieces for the sides. Add seam allowances (approximately ½ inch) to all pieces.
- Sew the seat and back pieces: Sew the sides of the seat and back pieces together, leaving one side open for turning.
- Attach the sides: Sew the side pieces to the seat and back, creating a continuous piece of fabric.
- Turn right side out: Turn the cover right side out through the opening you left.
- Finish the seams: Use a serger or zigzag stitch to finish the raw edges of the seams to prevent fraying.
- Fit the cover: Place the cover over your chair and adjust as needed. You may need to make minor adjustments to ensure a snug fit.
Measuring Your Desk Chair for a Custom Fit
Accurate measurements are essential for a well-fitting cover. Here’s how to measure your chair:
* Seat Depth: Measure the distance from the front edge of the seat to the back edge.
* Seat Width: Measure the widest part of the seat.
* Back Height: Measure from the top of the seat to the top of the chair back.
* Back Width: Measure the widest part of the chair back.
* Armrest Height (if applicable): Measure the height of the armrests from the seat to the top of the armrest.
* Armrest Width (if applicable): Measure the width of each armrest. Note that these may need separate fabric pieces.
Desk Chair Cover Patterns
Three patterns illustrate different design approaches. These patterns provide a basic framework; adjustments may be necessary depending on your chair’s shape.
* Basic Slipcover: This pattern is a simple rectangle for the seat and back, with side panels sewn to create a loose-fitting cover. Minimal sewing skills are required. Visualize a large envelope shape that completely covers the chair.
* Tailored Cover with Decorative Seams: This design incorporates decorative stitching or piping along the seams for a more polished look. It’s essentially the basic slipcover, but with added seams for aesthetic appeal. Consider using contrasting thread or fabric for the piping to accentuate the seams.
* Cover with Added Pockets: This pattern incorporates one or more pockets sewn onto the chair back or sides for added functionality. This is a simple addition to the basic slipcover design; adding fabric pieces for pockets, then attaching them before final assembly. Consider the size and placement of the pockets for optimal usability.
