Create Folding Chair Covers For Your Wedding In 5 Steps

Folding chair covers can be a great way to enhance the look of your wedding. They are an affordable and reusable way to elevate the atmosphere of your wedding and can be made quite easily. You can use fabric and tulle or ribbon to make simple chair covers or bows to decorate the chairs. The process is quite straightforward, and you can make a cover in less than 30 minutes. First, you need to measure the back of the chair and cut out two pieces of fabric for each chair, adding an extra inch to account for seams. Then, sew the pieces together, turn them right side out, and fold and sew the bottom edge. Finally, slide the cover over the chair and decorate it with tulle or ribbon.

Choosing the right fabric and colour

When it comes to choosing the right fabric and colour for your DIY wedding chair covers, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the overall theme and colour scheme of your wedding. You'll want to choose a colour that complements your wedding palette and ties the whole look together.

If you're looking for a classic and elegant look, you can't go wrong with black, white, or ivory chair covers. These colours are versatile and will match any tablecloth and folding chair decorations you choose. They are a safe choice if you are short on time and can't experiment with different colours and fabrics.

On the other hand, if you want to add a pop of colour and texture, consider using fabrics like satin or polyester that come in a variety of shades. Satin, for example, is available in colours like ivory, gold, navy blue, purple, and silver, and it has a beautiful glossy finish that will elevate the look of your chairs. Polyester is another great option, known for its durability and stain resistance, and it comes in various colours like white, black, ivory, and beige.

Spandex is also a popular choice for wedding chair covers, offering a sleek and modern look. Spandex chair covers are often used for stretchable, form-fitting designs and are available in a wide range of colours, including white, ivory, black, and champagne. This fabric is also washable and reusable, making it a practical choice for your special day.

Remember, the right fabric and colour choice will depend on the style and theme of your wedding, so consider browsing online for inspiration and exploring different options to find what suits your vision best.

Measuring and cutting the fabric

To make folding chair covers for a wedding, you will need fabric, tulle or ribbon. You will need 1 yard of fabric per chair and 4 yards of tulle or ribbon per chair. First, measure the back of the chair and note the width and height from the top of the back to the seat of the chair. For each chair, cut out two pieces of fabric, adding 1 inch to the width and height to allow for seams when sewing. This extra fabric will ensure that the final cover fits your chair perfectly without being too tight or revealing any rough edges.

Once you have cut out the fabric pieces, lay them on top of each other with the right sides together. Sew a half-inch seam along the top and two sides. This will form the main structure of your chair cover. Then, turn the cover right side out and fold the bottom edge inwards by half an inch. Sew along this fold to create a neat finish. This will also prevent the fabric from fraying and ensure the cover is durable.

Sewing the fabric

To make folding chair covers for a wedding, you will need fabric and tulle or ribbon. You should allow for 1 yard of fabric and 4 yards of tulle or ribbon per chair. First, measure the back of the chair and note the width and height. Next, cut out two pieces of fabric for each chair, adding 1 inch to the width and height to allow for seams. Place the two pieces of fabric on top of each other with the right sides together and sew a half-inch seam along the top and two sides. Then, turn the cover right side out and fold the bottom edge in half an inch, sewing it down close to the fold. Finally, slide the cover over the back of the chair.

The tulle or ribbon will be used to create a decorative finish. Cut a length of tulle or ribbon that is roughly 4 yards long. This should be long enough to wrap around the chair back and hang almost to the floor. Wrap it around the chair back, tying it in a knot at the back, and let the tails fall down the back of the chair. For a neater finish, trim the ends of the tulle into points. If you prefer a fuller look, tie the tulle or ribbon into a large bow.

Adding tulle or ribbon

Choosing the Right Material

When selecting your tulle or ribbon, opt for a material that complements your wedding theme and colours. Satin ribbons, for instance, can add a touch of elegance and shine to your chair covers. You can also choose wide ribbons or tulle to create a more voluminous bow at the back of the chair.

Measuring and Cutting

Before cutting your tulle or ribbon, measure the back of the chair, including the width and height from the top of the back to the seat. For tulle, cut a length of approximately 4 yards per chair. This length should allow you to wrap it around the chair back and have it hang gracefully almost to the floor. If you're using ribbon, you can cut it to your desired length, depending on whether you want a small or large bow.

Creating the Look

To attach the tulle or ribbon to the chair, wrap it around the chair back and secure it with a knot at the back. The tails of the tulle or ribbon should gracefully fall down the back of the chair. If you prefer a more polished look, you can trim the ends of the tulle into points.

For a more voluminous and puffy look, you can tie the tulle or ribbon into a large bow. This is a great option if you want to add a dramatic touch to your chair decor. Alternatively, you can opt for a simple knot and allow the fabric to drape down elegantly.

Combining with Other Elements

You can also combine tulle or ribbon with other decorative elements. For example, add some florals or greenery to the bow for a natural, romantic look. You can also incorporate beads, pearls, or other embellishments to the tulle or ribbon for a more glamorous and luxurious feel.

Remember, the key to a beautiful wedding chair cover is to ensure it complements your overall wedding theme and colour palette. By adding tulle or ribbon, you can easily elevate the look of your folding chairs and create a cohesive and elegant atmosphere at your wedding venue.

Transporting and storing the covers

Transporting and storing your chair covers without causing wrinkles can be challenging, but there are several methods you can use to achieve this. Here are some detailed tips to help you transport and store your folding chair covers for your wedding:

Transporting Chair Covers:

• Follow the Original Folding Lines: When packing the chair covers for transport, try to follow the original folding lines to avoid adding more wrinkles and creases to the fabric.
• Use Padding: When stacking multiple chair covers, use padding to prevent creases. You can use thin towels, tissue paper, or plastic bags as a protective layer between each cover.
• Garment Bags: Place the chair covers in garment bags. Avoid overcrowding the bags to prevent creasing, and try to hang them during transport.
• Hangers: Hangers are especially useful for lightweight or stretchy chair covers. You can also place the hangers with chair covers inside garment bags for added protection during transport.
• Avoid Compression: If you must use boxes for transport, avoid compressing the chair covers. Do not stack too many covers in one box, and do not place heavy items on top of the boxes.
• Prompt Unpacking: As soon as you arrive at your destination, unpack and hang the chair covers to prevent wrinkles. If needed, use a fabric steamer on a low setting to remove any wrinkles that may have formed during transport.

Storing Chair Covers:

• Clean First: Always clean your chair covers before storing them. It is best to wash them right after your event. Do not store dirty or wet covers, as this can cause mould or other damage.
• Ironing: Although it may seem unnecessary, ironing or steaming your chair covers before storing them will help to avoid creases and deep-set wrinkles. This saves time when preparing for your next event, as you won't need to remove stubborn creases.
• Storage Containers: Store your clean and ironed chair covers in storage bins, boxes, drawers, or on shelves. Opt for plastic containers with lids for easy access and protection from dust.
• Hangers: If you prefer to avoid excessive folding, you can lightly fold the chair covers and hang them in a closet using thin metal hangers, open-sided hangers, or hangers with clips.
• Cardboard Tubes: Another alternative to folding is to roll your chair covers around cardboard tubes. Secure them with elastic bands or ribbons, and store them standing up or on their sides.
• Storage Conditions: Regardless of your chosen storage method, ensure that your storage area is cool, dry, and well-ventilated to prevent mould and mildew damage to your chair covers.

Frequently asked questions