1.Slipcover fabrics should not be too heavy.
There will be many layers of fabric where seams join.
2.Textured fabrics add visual interest and resist wrinkling.
Consider prints, twills, denims, cotton duck and sailcloth. Linen and linen blends are guaranteed to wrinkle, which may be undesirable.
3.Slipcover fabrics should be tightly woven.
Tightly woven, colorful fabrics will will not reveal the upholstery underneath.
4.Slipcovers are usually made with self (same) or contrast welting.
A contrast welt draws attention to the lines of your furniture. If using a contrast welt, choose a similar weave and weight as the slipcover fabric. If your furniture has matching side pillows, consider using a contrast welt or fringe on just the pillows. This will provide visual interest, even if using self-welting on the body of the slipcover.
5.Slipcover fabrics should not have a latex backing.
Latex backing causes the fabric to buckle and wrinkle instead of sliding over the fabric beneath it.
6.Slipcovers are best for fully-upholstered furniture.
An exposed wood frame will be felt beneath the slipcover, unless it is designed to tie-on like a pinafore, instead of covering the frame like a dress.
7.Slipcovers will change the look, but not the sit or comfort of the furniture.
Slipcovers will not fix sagging cushions or broken springs. Add new foam or Dacron wrap to renew your cushions.
8.Slipcovers can be short and flirty.
You'll save on fabric if your sofa or chair is suited to a slipcover without a skirt, or if a dining chair can be made with a short skirt. Wing chairs with legs can also be slipcovered without a skirt, or have a short pleated or gathered skirt added.
9.Slipcovers can fit like a glove or be relaxed for a casual look.
Be sure to specify the look you want. Your slipcover will be cut and fit in your home, so you won't be without the use of your furniture.
10.Slipcovers should be dry-cleaned to prolong their life and appearance.
This will preserve the hand of the fabric and reduce the risk of shrinkage. Most slipcover fabrics are not suitable for washing, which could cause shrinkage, stress on the seams, and shorten the life of the slipcover.
Transform Your Furniture With Custom-Made Slipcovers
Many interior designers and home decorators love using slipcovers to transform furniture. At Calico, our customizedcoverings provide endless possibilities for seating designs such as chairs, ottomans, benches, sofas andsectionals.
Custom covers made with high-quality fabrics offer many benefits, such as:
- Furniture protection:A covering can protect the color and texture of preexisting fabrics and materials over time.
- Polished appearance:Applying a custom furniture slipcover can conceal blemishes for a flawless look, with precise measurements allowing the perfect fitting.
- Seasonal decoration:The many colors and patterns available offer an exciting way to embrace the changing seasons and match your holiday decorations.
- Easy storage and maintenance:A simple dry-cleaning application can freshen the slipcover when needed or desired. When swapping one design for another, you can easily fold the fabric to a minimal size and place it in storage.
Benefits of Working With Slipcover Makers at Calico
We offer free interior design services when you schedule an in-store appointment, in-home consultation or a virtualsession through video, phone or email. Whether you want to style one room or your whole home, our designers willgain an understanding of your aesthetic and lifestyle to provide you with expert advice. Our team can providedetailed recommendations for bringing your inspiration to life from start to finish.
In addition to providing you with custom-made furniture covers, we offer other ways to enhance your home. Explorebeautiful items such as table covers, cushions, pillows, bedding, reupholstery, furniture, window treatments andwallpaper from the Calico team. When working with multiple elements in a space, our designers can provide a tailoredmood board to see how your favorite fabrics and trimmings work with your lighting, furniture anddecorations.
Our inventory consists of only the best materials, with thousands of fabrics available. When working with yourpreferred fabric colors and patterns, our skilled craftspeople use proven techniques to ensure you receive productsyou love. We're the one-stop shop you can count on when you want to personalize your home.
How Much Fabric Does Your Furniture Need?
Slipcovers are often less expensive than reupholstery. Calico design shops can provide better estimates when they know more about your furniture and fabric.The following are "ballpark" estimates and do not factor in the additional fabric needed for pattern repeats:
- SOFA, 60" to 90" with a tight back and 2 cushions: 17 yards
- SOFA, 60" to 90" with a tight back and 3 cushions: 18 yards
Add 1½ yards for each additional loose cushion on seat or back
Add 1½ yards for sofas that are 90" to 108" long
- LOVESEAT, up to 60" with tight back and 2 cushions: 16 yards
- ARM CHAIR, club or wingback chair with 1 cushion: 9-10 yards
These estimates assume that the slipcover will be made with self-welting and a skirt.
Separate estimates can be provided for contrast welting.
The Calico furniture doctor is in!
Contact us via email with questions by clicking the link below, or check our locations page for a design shop near you.
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