1. Slipcover fabrics should not be too heavy.
There will be many layers of fabric where seams join.
Slipcovers
Custom Slipcovers
Did you know we make custom slipcovers that are made to measure? Slipcovers can change the look of a room instantly and extend the life of your upholstery. Beyond the advantages of easily expressing a different style or color palette (and changing it back again if and whenever you want), slipcovers are a beautifully relaxed option for vacation houses and rental homes, or just for making visits from the grandkids completely worry-free.
Top Ten Slipcover Tips:
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.
