With summer in full swing, most of us are spending a lot of time outdoors enjoying warm weather activities. Whether it’s backyard parties, picnics at the park, camping trips or relaxing on the patio, having comfortable seating available is key. However, years of use can take their toll on folding chairs – the plastic and fabric surfaces become faded, cracked and worn out.
Rather than replacing aging folding chairs, you may want to consider revamping their look with chair covers. Properly covering folding chairs is an affordable and simple DIY project that can make a big difference in their appearance. In this post, I will share some tips and tricks on how to cover folding chairs.
Why May You Want to Cover Folding Chairs?
1 . To Hide Their Unattractive Appearance
Folding chairs are not exactly the most aesthetically pleasing furniture items. They are designed for convenience and practicality, rather than style. However, if you are planning an event or gathering where these chairs will be used, the last thing you want is to have unattractive folding chairs ruin your décor. By covering them up, you can easily hide their unsightly appearance and give your space a more cohesive look.
2 . To Match the Event Theme
Event planning requires attention to detail, and having mismatched chairs can throw off the entire theme of your event. By covering folding chairs with fabric or chair covers, you can easily customize them to match the color scheme or theme of your event. This small detail can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of your event.
3 . To Add Comfort
Folding chairs are not typically known for their comfort. They often have hard seats and lack cushioning, which can be uncomfortable for guests, especially during longer events. By adding chair covers or cushions, you can make these chairs more comfortable for your guests, allowing them to enjoy the event without discomfort.
4 . To Protect Your Chairs
Folding chairs are often made of plastic or metal, which can be easily damaged or scratched. By covering them, you can protect them from spills, stains, and scratches. This will not only prolong the lifespan of your chairs but also save you money in the long run as you won’t have to replace them as often.
5 . To Personalize Your Space
Covering folding chairs with fabric or chair covers is an easy and affordable way to personalize your event space. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics to create a unique and personalized look for your event. This attention to detail will not go unnoticed by your guests and can elevate the overall atmosphere of your event.
6 . To Make Clean-up Easier
After a long day or night of hosting an event, the last thing you want to do is spend hours cleaning up. By covering folding chairs, you can easily remove the covers and toss them in the wash for a quick and easy clean-up. This will save you time and effort, making the post-event clean-up process much more manageable.
How to Cover Folding Chairs in 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To get started, you will need to gather all the necessary materials to cover your folding chairs. This includes:
- Fabric of your choice
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine or needle and thread
- Pencil or chalk for marking
- Pins
Step 2: Measure and Cut Fabric
First, measure the length and width of your folding chair seat. Make sure to add a few inches on all sides for seam allowance. Next, lay out your fabric and use the measurements to cut a piece that is slightly larger than your seat size. It’s better to have extra fabric than not enough.
Step 3: Fold and Pin Fabric
Take the fabric you just cut and fold it in half, right sides together. Use pins to secure the edges and make sure the fabric stays in place while sewing.
Step 4: Sew the Fabric
Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, sew around the edges of your folded fabric leaving one side open. If you are using a sewing machine, use a zigzag stitch to prevent fraying. Make sure to remove the pins as you sew.
Step 5: Flip and Secure
Once you have finished sewing, flip the fabric right side out. Place it on your folding chair seat and adjust it as needed. To secure the cover, use a needle and thread or fabric glue to attach the open side of the cover to the underside of the seat. And voila, your folding chair is now covered and ready to use!
Some Tips to Cover Folding Chairs
1 . Do Not Use Low-Quality Fabric
When covering folding chairs, it is important to use high-quality fabric that will not easily tear or rip. Low-quality fabric may be cheaper, but it will likely not withstand the constant folding and unfolding of the chairs. Additionally, using a thicker fabric can help prevent any stains or spills from seeping through onto the chair itself.
2 . Measure the Chair Before Cutting Fabric
Before cutting any fabric, it is important to measure the dimensions of the chair to ensure a proper fit. Folding chairs can vary in size and shape, so taking precise measurements will help avoid any mistakes or extra work.
3 . Use a Durable Sewing Thread
When sewing together the pieces of fabric, be sure to use a durable thread that can withstand the weight and movement of the chair. A strong polyester or nylon thread is recommended, as these materials are less likely to break or stretch over time.
4 . Consider Adding Padding
If you want to add extra comfort to your folding chairs, consider adding a layer of padding between the fabric and the chair frame. This can provide a more cushioned seat for your guests and make sitting for longer periods more comfortable.
5 . Choose a Design or Pattern That Matches Your Event
When choosing the fabric to cover your folding chairs, consider the theme or color scheme of your event. This can help create a cohesive and visually appealing look. You could also opt for solid colors or patterns that match the decor of the event.
6 . Use Elastic or Velcro for Easy Removal
To make covering and removing the chairs easier, consider using elastic or velcro to secure the fabric onto the chair. This will allow for a snug fit without having to deal with ties or knots that can become loose over time.
7 . Keep Extra Fabric on Hand
In case of any mishaps or last-minute additions to your guest list, it is always a good idea to have extra fabric on hand. This way, you can quickly cover any additional chairs without having to rush and find more fabric.
8 . Add Personal Touches
Lastly, don’t be afraid to add personal touches or decorations to your covered folding chairs. You could add ribbons, bows, or even embroidered initials to make the chairs feel more personalized and special for your event. Just be sure not to add anything too bulky that may affect the functionality of the chair.
Overall, covering folding chairs can be a fun and creative way to add some flair to your event while also providing comfort for your guests. With these tips in mind, you can easily transform plain folding chairs into stylish and functional seating options. So go ahead, get creative, and have fun covering your folding chairs!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions are Needed when Covering Folding Chairs?
When covering folding chairs, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your chairs look their best and remain functional. Here are some precautions you should take:
- Before covering the chair, make sure it is clean and free of any dirt or debris. This will prevent anything from getting trapped under the fabric and causing problems later on.
- Use fabric that is durable and easy to clean. Folding chairs are often used for outdoor events or parties, so it’s important to choose a fabric that can withstand wear and tear.
- Take accurate measurements before starting the covering process. This will ensure that you have enough fabric and that it fits properly without any wrinkles or bunching.
Can I Use a Single Fabric for All of My Folding Chairs?
Yes, you can use the same fabric for all of your folding chairs if you prefer a uniform look. However, it’s also common to mix and match fabrics to add some visual interest or personalize each chair. It all depends on your personal preference and the desired look for your event or space.
Conclusion
Now you know how to cover folding chairs! We hope this guide has helped you understand the different techniques and materials used to cover folding chairs. You can now confidently choose the right type of fabric, pattern, and color that best suits your needs.
In this guide, we have covered everything from measuring your chairs for a perfect fit to choosing the right fabric material and sewing techniques. We also discussed how adding chair covers can elevate the overall look of any event or space, making them a great investment for both personal and professional use.
