Making your own outdoor seat cushions is a fun and easy way to spruce up your patio furniture without spending a lot of money. With some basic sewing skills and a few supplies, you can create durable and comfortable cushions customized to your liking. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps for making your own outdoor seat cushions.
Selecting the Right Fabric
Choosing the correct fabric is crucial when making outdoor cushions. You’ll want a fabric that is durable, weather-resistant, and designed for outdoor use. Here are some good options to consider:
- Outdoor canvas – Canvas is a sturdy, woven fabric that holds up well outdoors. Look for canvas made of acrylic or polyester rather than cotton, which will deteriorate more quickly. Outdoor canvas is usually coated with a water-repellent finish.
- Outdoor polyester – Polyester fabric is mildew, fade, and stain resistant. Outdoor polyester is typically solution-dyed, meaning the color is infused into the fibers rather than just coated on the surface. This makes the color extra resilient.
- Sunbrella – One of the most popular outdoor fabric brands, Sunbrella fabrics are known for their longevity and resistance to sun, rain, and mildew. Made from 100% solution-dyed acrylic, they come in a wide selection of colors and patterns.
- Marine vinyl – Vinyl is a waterproof, durable synthetic fabric. It’s easy to clean and maintain. Marine vinyl has UV stabilizers to prevent sun damage. Vinyl works well for cushions that will get wet.
For seat cushions that will be frequently used, choose a heavier fabric with a tight weave, like canvas or Sunbrella. Lighter polyester blends are better for occasional use cushions. Make sure any fabric you select is specifically designed for outdoor use.
Selecting Cushion Fill Material
The filling for your outdoor cushions should be weather-resistant, retain its shape, and provide comfort. Here are common options:
- Polyester fiberfill – Polyester fiberfill is a budget-friendly option. It dries quickly if it gets wet and regains its loft after compression. However, it tends to compress and flatten permanently over time.
- Polyester wrapped foam – Foam wrapped in a polyester cover provides more structured support than plain fiberfill. Outdoor foam is treated to resist moisture. Look for high density foam for greatest durability.
- Polyester batting – Polyester batting is thicker than basic fiberfill and gives firmer cushioning. It is more resistant to flattening from regular use than fiberfill alone. Polyester batting can be quilted between two layers of fabric for greater stability.
- Down and feather fill – Only use down and feather fill for covered, protected outdoor cushions, as moisture will cause it to compress quickly. Wrap the down in a water-resistant cover. Down provides excellent cushioning but requires careful maintenance.
For seat cushions that need to retain their shape, polyester wrapped foam or polyester batting fill offer the best performance. Fiberfill alone is best for smaller decorative pillows. Never use regular polyester fiberfill outdoors without another protective layer, as it will absorb water like a sponge.
Measuring and Cutting Fabric
Once you’ve selected your fabrics, it’s time to measure and cut the pieces. Follow these steps:
- Measure each cushion, adding 12-16 inches to both the width and length. This will account for the seams, overlap, and any shrinkage or compression of the fill. It’s better for cushions to be slightly oversized than undersized.
- For square or rectangular cushions, cut two pieces of fabric for both the top and bottom to the cushion dimensions calculated above.
- For round or oval cushions, measure across the widest point through the center of the cushion, then add your seam allowance. Cut two circles or ovals using this measurement for the top and another two for the bottom.
- For cushions with ties, cut four 6-8 inch fabric strips across the width of fabric for each cushion. Fold them in half lengthwise with wrong sides together to form tie strips.
Always pre-wash and dry outdoor fabric before cutting to preshrink it and prevent later shrinking. Use sharp fabric scissors for clean cuts and clip corners diagonally to reduce bulk.
Sewing the Cushion Covers
With your fabric cut, it’s time to sew. Follow these instructions:
Step 1: Pin together
Place the top and bottom pieces together with right sides facing, matching the edges. Use straight pins to hold the layers together. Pin around all sides, placing pins every 3-5 inches.
Step 2: Sew main seam
Using a standard sewing machine and coordinating thread, sew around the edges of the fabric pieces with a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Leave an opening of 8-12 inches on one side for turning and inserting fill.
Step 3: Corner clips
Once stitched, clip the corners on an angle close to the seam line. This reduces fabric bulk and helps the corners lay flat when turned right side out. Avoid clipping too close or you may cut the seam.
Step 4: Turn and press
Turn the cover right side out through the opening. Use a point turner or chopstick to carefully push out the corners. Press with an iron on medium heat.
Step 5: Topstitch (optional)
For a professional finish, topstitch around the edges of the cover 1/4 inch from the edge. This closes the opening so it will stay shut when filled. Leave a 3-4 inch opening for fill.
Step 6: Attach ties
For tied cushions, center a tie strip over each side of the opening and edgestitch in place. Fold the ends over 1/2 inch and stitch to enclose the raw edges.
Your sewn cushion cover is now ready to be filled!
Filling the Cushion Cover
Follow these tips for properly filling your cushion cover:
- For loose fiberfill, use a plastic bag with a corner cut off to funnel fill into the cover. Pack it in lightly and allow room for compression.
- For sewn batting squares or foam, insert through the opening and smooth flat. Foam may need gentle compression to fit into the cover.
- Don’t overstuff – slight underfilling is better to allow for compression over time.
- Distribute fill evenly and shake the cushion to settle it. Filling should be firm but not hard or lumpy.
- For foam or wrapped foam pieces, wrap them in polyester fill or a filler sock first so the foam doesn’t rub against the fabric.
- Once filled as desired, hand stitch the opening closed or use fabric glue to seal it.
Insert a filled outdoor cushion into a decorative cover for extra protection and style. Add ties to keep cushion covers secured to frames. Plump and adjust fill regularly so cushions retain their shape. Replace compromised covers or degraded fill promptly to maintain cushion comfort and longevity.
Making Different Cushion Shapes
While many outdoor cushions are square or rectangular, you can make cushions in various shapes. Follow these pointers:
Round cushions
Cut two circular pieces for both top and bottom. After sewing up the sides, gather the fabric at the edges for a ruffled look. Stuff evenly to avoid lumps.
Wedge-shaped cushions
Cut the fabric into long triangles with the wide base and tapered point. Sew the sides together leaving an opening. Fill, then hand stitch the opening closed.
Cylindrical roll cushions
Cut fabric into wide rectangles twice as wide as the cushion diameter. Sew into a long tube, turn inside out and stuff. Hand stitch both ends closed. Can be tied at center.
Corner cushions
Cut into large triangles or L shapes with rounded corners. Sew two layers together along angled sides. Leave one side open for turning and filling.
Get creative with different cushion shapes to add flair! Just be sure to cut generously sized pieces and allow for compression when filling.
Outdoor Cushion Care and Maintenance
Proper care will keep your handmade outdoor cushions looking fresh. Follow these tips:
- Allow cushions to air dry thoroughly after rain before putting away to prevent mold and mildew.
- Shake and fluff fiberfill regularly to maintain cushion loft and shape.
- Spot clean stains on cushion covers promptly with an outdoor fabric cleaner and rinse residue.
- Check seams and fabric for wear and damage. Repair sooner rather than later to avoid bigger issues.
- Use fabric protector spray occasionally to replenish water resistance and repel stains.
- For winter storage, wash covers and store cushions fully dry in a sealed plastic bin.
- Replace degraded cushion fill that has lost support. Fiberfill and polyester batting compress permanently over time.
With the right materials and careful construction, your handmade outdoor seat cushions can enhance your patio space for years to come. Have fun choosing fabrics and fill to make cushions that complement your style. Follow this guide for hassle-free cushion creation and care. Your custom, comfy cushions will make time spent outdoors so much more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best fabric for outdoor seat cushions?
Outdoor canvas, Sunbrella fabric, and marine vinyl are good choices. Opt for solution-dyed acrylic or polyester fabric with a tight weave that’s water-resistant and durable. Avoid regular cotton.
Should I use fiberfill or foam?
Foam or polyester batting provides more structure than plain fiberfill. But fiberfill is budget-friendly and dries quickly if wet. For frequent use, foam wrapped in polyester fill works well.
How thick should the cushion fill be?
Aim for around 2-3 inches thick once filled for comfort. Slight underfilling is better than overstuffing to allow for compression over time.
How do I get sharp corners on the covers?
Clip corners diagonally just shy of the stitching line after sewing the cover pieces together. Use a point turner to push out corners neatly when turning right side out.
What size opening should I leave for inserting fill?
8-12 inches is ideal. You want ample room for filling the cover but will close most of it by hand or machine once finished filling for a neat look.
Can I make cushions out of regular interior fabric?
It’s best to use fabric specifically made for outdoor use that is colorfast and water repellent. Interior fabric will quickly degrade outdoors.
With some simple sewing skills and weather-resistant materials, you can create custom, durable outdoor seat cushions for a fraction of the cost of buying them. Get creative with fabics, shapes, and ties. Follow the steps in this guide for success making your own cushions. Be sure to keep them well-maintained so they withstand seasons of use. In no time, you can have a stylish, comfy outdoor living space you’ll enjoy.