A DIY Makeover for Your Couch?

Answer 1

How to Style Your Couch

Let's face it: New couches are expensive. If your existing couch has good bones, consider revamping it. A pre-made slipcover will often do the trick; you can slide it right over the cushions or just cover the base of the couch and sew your own cushion covers using a complementary fabric. To really dress up your couch, make simple decorative pillow covers for existing pillows or for purchased pillow forms. You can save an enormous amount of money by opting to do it yourself. All it takes is your unlimited imagination and some fabric and accessories.

The BasicsMeasure your pillow from seam to seam on both the long and short sides. Add 1-1/4 inch to each measurement and cut out two pieces of fabric in those dimensions. Pin the pieces of fabric together with the right sides facing each other. Sew three sides of the fabric together with a 5/8-inch seam allowance all around; extend your stitching one inch in on either side of the fourth side. Insert the pillow and hand-stitch the open side closed. Embellishments

In addition to choosing fabric that will complement your decor, choose from an endless variety of embellishments, from edging and fringe to buttons and appliques. To attach fringe or edging, sandwich the finished side of the fringe or edging between the pieces of fabric prior to sewing; the unfinished edge of the fringe or edging should be flush with the fabric edges. Sew as instructed above. Attach iron-on appliques to the right side of the fabric prior to sewing. Make your own sew-on appliques using a complementary fabric; cut out the shape you want and sew it onto the fabric prior to sewing the pillow. Use the zig-zag setting and sew carefully around the edge of the applique. Sew on buttons before sewing the pillows; consider shape, size and color when choosing them. Cover the pillow entirely with buttons, or choose a single large one for the center of the pillow.