Covering old outdoor cushions is a great way to make them look new again, while protecting them from the elements. The first step is to make sure that the fabric is still in good condition, and free of any mildew or mildew-like staining.
This will help ensure that your new cover will look its best and last. The next step is to measure the cushions and decide how much fabric you need to purchase. Measure the length, width and depth of each cushion and then add a few inches to allow for a good fit.
Once you have the dimensions of the old cushion and have purchased new fabric, it’s time to get started. Lay out the fabric, making sure it is centered and the pattern is straight. Place the cushion on the fabric, and make sure that it is properly aligned with the pattern.
Pin or clip the fabric around the cushion where the edges will be. Use scissors to cut out the cushion cover, adding a few extra inches to the seams.
After the fabric is cut out, it’s time to start sewing. Start by stitching down the sides, then the corners. If desired, add a zipper or Velcro closure. This will help keep the covers securely in place.
For a more finished look, you can top stitch around the edges of the covers to add decoration. Once the stitching is complete, it’s time to put your new covers on the cushions and enjoy your new look.
What material is for outdoor cushion covers?
Outdoor cushion covers can be made from a range of materials, depending on the desired style and function. Popular outdoor cushion cover materials include polyester and polyester blends, which are durable and mildew resistant; polypropylene, which is moisture-resistant, fade-resistant, and mildew-resistant; and acrylic, which is resistant to fading and mildew growth.
In addition, sunbrella fabric is a popular choice for outdoor cushion covers, as it is resistant to fading, mildew, and water. Sunbrella fabric is especially popular for its added UV protection. For an even more durable option, vinyl cushion covers are available, which are more waterproof and mildew resistant than fabric cushion covers.
For added protection, both polyester and vinyl cushion covers can be treated with a water-repellent spray.
How do you make a cushion cover without a zip?
Making a cushion cover without a zip is a great way to learn a few basic sewing skills. To begin, you will need fabric fabric of your choice, scissors, pins, a sewing machine, and thread.
Start by cutting two pieces of fabric. The pieces should measure the length of the cushion plus seam allowance of ½ inch, plus the width of the cushion plus another 6 inches for the overlap on the cushion cover.
For the back of the cushion cover, cut a strip of fabric which is the same length of the cushion plus the seam allowance of ½ inch, but 6 inches shorter than the width of the cushion.
Next, begin to assemble the cushion cover by pinning the two main pieces of fabric together along the ends with the right sides of the fabric together. Once you have pinned the pieces together, begin to sew up the side seams using a ¼ inch seam allowance.
Leave a 2-3 inch opening at the end of the seam to turn the right side out.
Once the side seams have been stitched, turn the cushion cover right side out through the opening you left. You can now press the seams flat with an iron then pin the back piece to the cushion cover, overlapping with the front piece.
To make sure that there is an even overlap of the back, press the fabric flat before pinning.
Finally, sew the back piece to the cushion cover. To complete the cushions, turn the cover right side out, stuff the cushion inside, then sew the opening closed. Your cushion cover is now finished!
What can I put my outdoor cushions in?
Outdoor cushions are best kept in a weather-resistant storage container. This includes containers made from plastic, metal, or other water-resistant materials. The best type of container is one that is lockable, durable, and large enough to properly store all of your outdoor cushions.
This can help protect your cushions from the elements and extend their life. If you don’t have a weather-proof storage container, putting your cushions in a thick, sealed plastic bag and then storing them in a cool, dry indoor location is also a good option.
Additionally, you can opt for a waterproof cushion cover to further protect your cushions from all elements.
Can outdoor cushions be left in the rain?
No, it’s not recommended to leave outdoor cushions in the rain. Waterproof and water-resistant coatings may be able to offer some protection against the rain, but they will eventually wear off over time, leaving the cushion vulnerable to absorbing water.
While some cushions may be able to air dry quickly after a light rain, excessive and regular exposure to rain can cause the cushion to become moldy or damaged, and the material may rot or send foul odors throughout the area.
It is best to avoid leaving any kind of cushions out in the rain, as doing so could cause them to become damaged and unusable.
Is it OK to leave patio cushions outside?
In general, it is not recommended to leave patio cushions outside. Because they are typically made with materials such as foam and fabric, they can easily become worn or damaged from outdoor elements such as wind and rain.
They may also fade in sunlight or become moldy from exposure to moisture.
If you are going to leave patio cushions outside, it is advisable to store them in a weather-resistant cover when not in use. This will help protect them from damage. Additionally, you should make sure to frequently clean them, as dirt and debris can cause damage and discoloration over time.
Overall, the best way to ensure that your patio cushions last for years to come is to store them indoors when not in use. This will help protect them from unpredictable weather, debris, and other potentially damaging factors.
How do I get my patio cushions to stay in place?
There are multiple approaches you can take to keep your patio cushions in place. One method is to use a furniture weight to ensure your cushions stay put. This is sold in the form of bags filled with material such as sand, gravel, or quartz.
If this is not an appealing option for you, you can use bungee cords, hooks, straps, or ties to tie your patio cushions securely to the furniture. Additionally, you can install slats in the seat of your patio furniture for the cushions to sit in securely.
Installing non-skid rubber pads or plastic feet on the bottom of your patio furniture can also help to keep the furniture in place to prevent it from sliding around with the cushions. Finally, piling the cushions on top of each other or storing them off the patio furniture when you are not using them can help to keep the cushions in place when they are not in use.
Can you reupholster outdoor cushions?
Yes, you can reupholster outdoor cushions. Reupholstering outdoor cushions is a great way to bring new life to an old piece of furniture, and with the right materials, the cushions can look great for years to come.
Before beginning the process, you’ll need to purchase outdoor fabric designed to withstand the elements. Choosing the right type of fabric is key to ensuring that your cushions will last outdoors. Additionally, you’ll need to select strong thread that won’t break or tear when exposed to wind, rain and other outdoor elements.
Once you have your materials, the actual reupholstering process is fairly simple. You’ll need to measure the existing cushions and cut the new fabric to those exact dimensions. Then, use a staple gun to attach the fabric to the existing cushion frames.
After that, you may want to add cushions to the frames, or you can leave them as is. Finally, it’s important to regularly check and replace worn or frayed fabric so your cushions stay looking beautiful for years to come.
What kind of foam can be used for outdoor cushions?
Outdoor cushions can be made from a variety of foam materials, depending on the desired use and type of cushion. Generally, the best foam for outdoor use is a polyurethane foam, as it is both durable and can withstand moisture and humidity.
Aside from polyurethane foam, there are also other specific types of foams which are best used outdoors. Reticulated foam is a more open-cell foam which is very lightweight and resistant to water, making it perfect for outdoor cushions.
Some other types of foam which are great for outdoor cushions are memory foam, latex foam, and gel foam, as these foams all provide plenty of comfort and support, as well as being resistant to the elements.
What density foam is for seat cushions?
The type of foam that is best for seat cushions depends on several factors, including the desired firmness, expected use, and budget. Generally, medium- or high-density foam works best for seat cushions because it is more durable and supportive than low-density foam.
A density rating of 1.8 to 2.2 pounds per cubic foot is considered medium-density, while more than 2.2 pounds per cubic foot is considered high-density. If a cushion needs to be softer, then a lower-density foam — such as 1.
8 pounds per cubic foot — may be used instead. However, this will require more frequent replacement due to less durability and support. When it comes to quality and longevity, premium high-density foams are typically the best for seat cushions.
What are Sunbrella cushions filled with?
Sunbrella cushions are filled with a variety of materials, depending on the customer’s preference. Customers can choose a blend of shredded foam and polyester fiberfill, or all-foam filling, both of which provide a plush, comfortable seat.
Sunbrella also offers a soft core, which is a mixture of molded and channeled foam, along with a channeled layer of hypoallergenic polyester fibers. No matter which type of cushion filling you choose, all have the feel of a traditional pillow and the look of relaxed indoor furniture.
Sunbrella cushions are also easy to clean and maintain. Sunbrella cushions can be spot-cleaned with a mild detergent and water, and the foam fillings can be replaced if necessary. Sunbrella cushions offer superior durability and shape retention, so customers can enjoy their cushions for years to come.
What fabric material is waterproof?
There are multiple fabrics that can be considered waterproof, depending on the level of water resistance required. Polyurethane (PU) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) are the most commonly used waterproof fabrics and include raincoats, shower curtains, and wet suits.
Laminated fabrics, such as taffeta and laminated cotton, are also waterproof and are commonly used to make outerwear and camping gear. Other fabrics that can be considered waterproof include waxed canvas, water-repellent coated nylon, and coated or impregnated fabrics such as GORE-TEX.
All these materials can be either breathable or non-breathable, based on their construction.
How can you tell if fabric is waterproof?
Testing fabric to see if it is waterproof may require a few methods. The first method can involved running water over the fabric to see if the fabric absorbs the water. If the liquid is not absorbed, the fabric may be considered waterproof.
Additionally, to further test if the fabric is truly waterproof, you can take a spray bottle and spray the fabric. If no water drops are visible and the fabric does not become wet when sprayed, this would be a good indication that the fabric is waterproof.
If you want to be sure, you can fill a bucket with water and submerge the fabric inside it, and if no water passes through the fabric, it can be considered waterproof.
Which is more waterproof nylon or polyester?
In general, nylon is more waterproof than polyester. Nylon is a synthetic material whose thread is usually coated with a waterproofing agent. This protects its fibers from liquid, meaning it is much more water-resistant than polyester.
Polyester is an inherently hydrophobic material, which means it does not hold water well. However, due to its loose weave and lack of waterproof coating, it does not do as good a job of fending off water as nylon.
As a result, nylon has a much higher waterproof rating than polyester and is often used for making waterproof items such as jackets, trousers, and backpacks.
What’s better water resistant or waterproof?
When answering the question of what’s better, water resistant or waterproof, it really comes down to the application and environment you are using it in. Water resistant indicates that the material can resist getting wet, or resistant to moisture, but that it cannot be submerged under water.
Waterproof, on the other hand, means that the material can be fully submerged under water and still remain impermeable. For most everyday applications, water resistance is typically sufficient, but for complete waterproofing you will need something with a waterproof rating.
For example, If you are looking for the best outdoor gear for camping in the rain, you may want a material with a waterproof rating, as it will be able to withstand heavy exposure to wet conditions.
Is polyester waterproof or water-resistant?
Polyester is a synthetic material that is mainly waterproof, but it is more water-resistant than fully waterproof. Polyester fabric is usually treated with a water-resistant finish, making it somewhat waterproof, but it will eventually become saturated if exposed to a large amount of water for extended periods of time.
In such cases, water can seep through the fabric, resulting in a damp or soggy feeling. Polyester is not as waterproof as other materials, but it offers superior levels of water resistance. It is also less prone to stretching or shrinking when exposed to water, which further enhances its water resistance.
To further improve the water-resistant qualities of polyester fabric, protective coatings such as polyurethane or silicone can be applied for more prolonged and effective water resistance.
Is 100 polyester waterproof?
No, 100% polyester is not waterproof but it is water resistant. This means that it does provide some protection from water and moisture, but it is not completely impermeable and water will eventually be able to penetrate it.
However, this protection level will vary depending on factors such as the tightness of the weave, the thickness of the fabric, and how it has been treated in the manufacturing process. Therefore, while it can be used in certain applications where some level of water protection is needed, it is not an ideal choice if you need complete waterproofing.
Is cotton waterproof?
No, cotton is not waterproof. While some varieties of cotton, such as waxed cotton, are somewhat water resistant, they are not fully waterproof. Cotton absorbs moisture, which is why it is commonly used in clothing, towels, and other fabric products.
When wet, cotton takes a long time to dry, which means it won’t be able to keep you dry for very long. If you’re looking for a fabric that is waterproof, you should try a synthetic material such as nylon or polyester.
These fabrics are tightly woven and can be treated with a waterproof coating, which helps repel water and keep you dry.