Diy Chair Covers: A Wedding Essential

Creating your own chair covers for your wedding is a fun and easy way to add a personal touch to your special day. Whether you're looking to hide imperfections or simply match your wedding theme, making your own chair covers and sashes is a great way to achieve the look you want without breaking the bank. With a few simple steps, you can transform your wedding chairs into elegant and stylish accents that will wow your guests. So, get your measuring tape and fabric of choice ready, and let's dive into the world of DIY chair covers!

Measure the chair

To make your own chair covers for weddings, you'll first need to measure the chairs. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Measure the width of the chair: Start by identifying the widest point of the chair, which could be either the leg base or the arms. Measure from left to right at this widest point.
• Measure the depth of the chair: Next, you'll want to measure the deepest side of the chair, which is adjacent to the width. Measure from the back to the front of the chair. If your chair has a curvature design, start the measurement at the top or bottom of the chair back.
• Measure the height of the chair: Measure from the ground up to the top of the chair. It's recommended to make the cover 1-2 inches shorter than the chair for breathability.
• Re-measure the width: As the previous step may have altered the width, re-measure the width of the chair from left to right, starting at the leg base or arms, whichever is the widest point.
• Re-measure the depth: Similarly, re-measure the depth of the chair from back to front, starting at the top or bottom of the chair back if there's a curvature.
• Take note of the total dimensions: Add the front and back measurements (from steps 1 and 4) together, and then add 3 extra inches to the width to account for securing the material together on the chair.

By following these steps, you'll have accurate measurements of the chair, which will help you create well-fitted covers. Remember to round up your dimensions to the nearest inch for simplicity.

Choose your fabric

The fabric you choose for your chair covers should be in line with your wedding theme and colour scheme. You can select from a variety of materials, including satin, damask, organza, cotton, or muslin. Consider the style of the chairs and whether you want to hide any imperfections. If the chairs are already quite eye-catching, you might opt for a more subtle fabric, whereas if they are plain, you may want a bolder pattern or colour to add a statement to the room.

Think about the texture and weight of the fabric. If your wedding is outdoors, you'll want a lightweight fabric that moves with the wind and breathes easily. For indoor weddings, you can opt for heavier fabrics with more structure, like damask or satin. Consider the lighting of the venue, and how this will interact with the fabric. A shiny fabric might reflect light in an interesting way, whereas a matte fabric will be more subdued.

If you're having a Christmas wedding, a red and white ticking stripe fabric is a classic choice that adds a cheery, festive vibe to the room. You could also opt for a simple white fabric and decorate the chairs with flowers or other accessories.

It's important to measure the chairs before purchasing your fabric. You'll need to measure the width of the chair, the length from the front top to the front legs, and the length from the back top to the back legs. Add a few extra inches to your measurements to account for hemming and securing the fabric together. Each chair cover typically requires around 1/2 yard of fabric, but this will depend on the size of your chairs, so be sure to measure carefully.

With your measurements and desired fabric type in hand, you can now source the fabric. Try to find a store that offers a wide variety of fabrics, like Walmart, or a specialised fabric store.

Cut the fabric

To make your own chair covers for weddings, you will need to cut the fabric according to specific measurements. Here is a step-by-step guide to cutting the fabric for a simple and elegant chair cover:

Step 1: Measure the Chair:

Begin by taking measurements of the chair you want to cover. Measure the width of the chair and the length from the front top to the front legs, and then from the back top to the back legs. Add these front and back measurements together and then add an extra 3 inches to the total width. This extra width will be used for securing the fabric on the chair.

Step 2: Choose and Purchase Fabric:

Select a fabric that matches your wedding theme and purchase it according to the measurements taken. Common fabric choices include satin, damask, organza, cotton, or muslin. You will need enough fabric to cover the entire chair, so ensure you have the right quantity before proceeding.

Step 3: Cut the Main Cover Piece:

Cut the main fabric piece for the cover. The width of this piece should be the chair width plus 1 extra inch for hemming. The height should be twice the chair length (from the top edge to your desired length) plus the chair thickness and an additional 2 inches for hemming. This will create a neat finish around the edges.

Step 4: Cut Decorative Knot Pieces:

Cut two rectangular pieces of fabric for the decorative knot or bow at the back of the chair. These pieces should be approximately 7 by 18 inches, but you can adjust the size to your preference. Ensure that the length is sufficient to tie a knot or bow at the back. You can also use decorative ribbon instead of fabric for a different look.

Step 5: Optional Bow/Knot Fabric:

If you want to create a bow instead of a knot, cut longer rectangular pieces, approximately double the length. This will give you enough fabric to tie a neat bow. You can also experiment with different widths to achieve the desired look.

Step 6: Finalize the Cut:

Once you have cut all the fabric pieces, lay them out and ensure they align with your measurements. It is important to be precise with your cutting to achieve a well-fitted chair cover. If needed, trim any excess fabric or adjust the cuts to match your chair measurements.

Now that your fabric is cut, you can proceed to the next steps of sewing and assembling your chair covers. Remember to follow the measurements and instructions carefully to ensure a neat and elegant finish for your wedding chair covers.

Sew the fabric

To sew the fabric for your DIY wedding chair covers, start by taking measurements of the chair with a tape measure to estimate the quantity of material you will need. Measure the width of the chair and the length, from the front top to the front legs, and then from the back top to the back legs. Total the front and back measurements and add an extra three inches to the width to allow for securing the material together on the chair.

Next, cut your chosen material—such as satin, damask, organza, cotton, or muslin—according to these measurements. Place the fabric over the chair, ensuring it covers the entire surface, and check that the colour matches your wedding theme.

Gather the loose hanging fabric on both sides of the chair and pin it in place at the back. You can either hand-stitch the sides or use safety pins to attach the loose ends together.

For an additional decorative touch, consider adding a sash. Cut wide strips of tulle or taffeta to double the length of the width of the chair's backrest. Wrap the sash around the backrest and tie it into a neat knot or bow at the back. You can also pin a silk or fresh flower in the centre for added elegance.

If you're feeling extra crafty, follow these steps to create a decorative knot:

• Cut two 7 x 18-inch rectangles from your chosen fabric. These can be customised to your desired size, ensuring they are long enough to reach across the chair back and tie together.
• Fold the two knot pieces in half lengthwise, with the right sides of the fabric together. Sew along the open edge, then flip it right side out and press it flat.
• Fold one end under and sew it closed.
• Place the main cover piece with the right sides together. Sandwich each knot piece inside the cover, lining up the unfinished edge of the knot with the outside edge of the cover. Pin it in place.
• Sew down both sides of the cover to create a pocket with one open end.
• Hem the bottom edge of the chair cover: roll the fabric over by half an inch, then repeat, pressing and sewing. Press the entire chair cover, especially along the sewn seams.
• Slip the chair cover over the back of your chair and tie a pretty knot or bow.

Decorate the chair

Decorating chairs for a wedding is a great way to hide imperfections and ensure they appeal to your unique taste or wedding theme. Here are some steps to follow to decorate your wedding chairs:

Measure the Chair

Take measurements of the chair with a tape measure to estimate the quantity of material needed. Measure the width of the chair and the length from the front top to the front legs, and then from the back top to the back legs. Total the front and back measurements and add an extra few inches to the width to account for securing the material together.

Choose and Cut the Material

Purchase or source material that aligns with your desired colour scheme and style. Materials like satin, damask, organza, cotton, or muslin are good options. Cut the material to size, allowing for some excess for hemming and securing.

Create the Cover

Place the material over the chair, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Gather the loose hanging material from the sides and pin it in place at the back. You can hand stitch or use safety pins to secure the material.

Add a Sash

Cut wide strips of tulle or taffeta to create a sash. These strips should be about double the length of the width of the chair's backrest. Wrap the sash around the backrest and tie it into a neat knot or bow at the back.

Embellish with a Flower

For an elegant touch, pin a silk or fresh flower to the centre of the knot or bow. This adds a bit of sophistication to the overall look.

Tips for a Polished Look

Be sure to press the material and seams for a neat appearance. Also, consider the thickness of the chair's edges and allow for some extra material when cutting to ensure a snug fit.

Frequently asked questions