My Experience With Making Outdoor Furniture Covers

Last summer, I decided to invest in some new outdoor furniture for my backyard. I spent a pretty penny on a beautiful sectional and dining set, but I quickly realized that I would need to protect them from the elements to ensure they lasted for years to come. After doing some research, I discovered the world of making your own outdoor furniture covers. Here’s what I learned.

What are Outdoor Furniture Covers?

Outdoor furniture covers are protective covers that can be placed over your patio furniture to protect it from the elements. They can help to prevent sun damage, fading, and water damage, which can all cause your furniture to deteriorate over time. Many people opt to make their own outdoor furniture covers to save money and to customize the fit for their specific furniture.

Step-by-Step Guide for Making Your Own Outdoor Furniture Covers

Step 1: Measure Your Furniture

The first step in making your own outdoor furniture covers is to measure your furniture. Take precise measurements of the length, width, and height of each piece of furniture that you want to cover. Be sure to add a few extra inches to each measurement to allow for a snug fit and to accommodate any cushions or pillows that you may have on your furniture.

Step 2: Choose Your Fabric

Next, you’ll need to choose the fabric that you want to use for your outdoor furniture covers. Look for a durable, waterproof fabric that will hold up against the elements. Sunbrella and marine-grade vinyl are popular choices for outdoor furniture covers, as they are both waterproof and fade-resistant.

Step 3: Cut Your Fabric

Using your measurements, cut your fabric to the appropriate size for each piece of furniture that you want to cover. Be sure to add a few extra inches to each side to allow for seams and hems.

Step 4: Sew Your Fabric

Using a sewing machine or by hand, sew the pieces of fabric together to create a cover that fits snugly over your furniture. Be sure to reinforce all of the seams and hems to ensure that your cover will hold up against the elements.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Making Your Own Outdoor Furniture Covers

Choose a durable, waterproof fabric that will hold up against the elements.
Be sure to add a few extra inches to your measurements to allow for a snug fit and to accommodate any cushions or pillows.
Reinforce all seams and hems to ensure that your covers will hold up over time.
Consider adding tie-downs or snaps to your covers to keep them in place during windy weather.
Make covers for your outdoor grill and other outdoor appliances to protect them from the elements as well.
Store your covers in a dry place when not in use to prevent mold and mildew.
Consider making separate covers for each piece of furniture to make it easier to take off and put on.
Use contrasting fabrics or patterns to add a pop of color to your outdoor space.
Consider making covers for your outdoor pillows and cushions as well to keep them looking like new.
Don’t forget to clean your covers regularly to prevent dirt and debris from building up.

Pros and Cons of Making Your Own Outdoor Furniture Covers

Like anything, making your own outdoor furniture covers has its pros and cons.

Pros:

You can save money by making your own covers instead of buying expensive pre-made ones.
You can customize the fit to ensure a snug and secure fit for your specific furniture.
You can choose the fabric and pattern that best suits your style and outdoor space.

Cons:

Making your own covers can be time-consuming and requires some sewing skills.
You may need to purchase some specialized materials, like waterproof fabric and thread.
If you make a mistake in your measurements or sewing, you may need to start over.

My Personal Review and Suggestion for Making Your Own Outdoor Furniture Covers

Overall, I think that making your own outdoor furniture covers can be a great way to protect your investment and personalize your outdoor space. While it does require some time and effort, the end result is well worth it. I would suggest spending some time researching fabrics and patterns to find the best fit for your needs, and taking precise measurements to ensure a snug and secure fit. If you’re not confident in your sewing skills, consider taking a sewing class or enlisting the help of a friend who is handy with a needle and thread.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: How long do outdoor furniture covers last?

A: The lifespan of outdoor furniture covers can vary depending on the quality of the materials and how well they are cared for. On average, a high-quality outdoor furniture cover can last anywhere from 3-5 years.

Q: Can I wash my outdoor furniture covers?

A: Yes, many outdoor furniture covers can be washed in a washing machine on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Be sure to check the care instructions for your specific covers before washing.

Q: How do I store my outdoor furniture covers when not in use?

A: To prevent mold and mildew, it’s best to store your outdoor furniture covers in a dry, cool place when not in use. Some covers may come with storage bags for easy organization.