How To Sew Armrest Covers For Sofas

Armrest covers offer a practical and stylish solution for protecting sofas from wear and tear, spills, and pet damage. Sewing custom armrest covers allows for personalized design choices and precise fitting. This article provides a step-by-step guide to creating tailored armrest covers for any sofa.

Materials Needed

Gathering the necessary materials beforehand streamlines the sewing process. The following items are typically required:

Fabric (e.g., upholstery fabric, durable cotton)
Measuring tape
Scissors
Pins
Sewing machine
Thread (matching the fabric)
Pattern paper (optional)
Elastic band (optional)
Iron and ironing board

Measuring the Armrests

Accurate measurements are crucial for a well-fitted cover. The following measurements should be taken:

Length of the armrest (from the front edge to the back).
Width of the armrest (across the top).
Height/Thickness of the armrest (from the top to the bottom edge).
Circumference of the armrest (measuring around the thickest part).

Creating the Pattern

A pattern ensures accurate cutting and simplifies the sewing process. Here's how to create a basic pattern:

Using the measurements, draw a rectangular shape on pattern paper. This rectangle represents the top of the armrest.
Add extra inches to each side for seam allowance (typically 1/2 inch to 1 inch).
Create separate pattern pieces for the sides and front/back of the armrest, adjusting the measurements accordingly.
If the armrest has a curved shape, adjust the pattern pieces to reflect the curves.

Cutting the Fabric

Once the pattern is finalized, the fabric can be cut:

Lay the fabric flat on a cutting surface.
Place the pattern pieces on the fabric, ensuring they are aligned with the grain if applicable.
Pin the pattern pieces to the fabric securely.
Carefully cut around the pattern pieces, leaving the seam allowance intact.

Sewing the Cover

With the fabric pieces cut, the sewing process can begin:

Pin the corresponding fabric pieces together, right sides facing.
Starting with one side, sew along the pinned edges using a straight stitch and the designated seam allowance.
Repeat for the remaining sides, leaving one end open.
Turn the cover right side out.

Adding Finishing Touches

The finishing steps enhance the fit and appearance of the armrest cover:

Iron the cover to create crisp edges and remove wrinkles.
If desired, an elastic band can be added to the open end to secure the cover to the armrest. Create a casing for the elastic by folding and stitching the fabric along the open edge. Insert the elastic band through the casing and secure the ends.
Topstitching along the seams can add a professional and durable finish.

Alternative Closure Methods

While elastic bands are a common choice, other closure methods offer varying functionalities and aesthetics:

Ties or ribbons can be attached to the corners of the cover and tied around the armrest for a decorative and adjustable fit.
Velcro strips can be sewn along the open edge for easy on and off application.
Zippers offer a concealed and secure closure option.

Fabric Selection Considerations

Choosing the right fabric is essential for both aesthetics and durability:

Upholstery fabrics are designed for heavy use and offer excellent durability and stain resistance.
Durable cotton or linen blends provide a comfortable and washable option.
Patterned fabrics can add a decorative touch to the room.
Consider the existing décor and the overall style of the sofa when selecting a fabric.

Maintenance and Care

Proper care ensures the longevity of the armrest covers:

Follow the care instructions for the specific fabric used.
Most covers can be machine washed on a gentle cycle.
Air drying is recommended to prevent shrinkage and maintain the shape of the cover.
Ironing can restore crispness and remove wrinkles.