If you have a sleeper sofa in your home, chances are you are all too aware of the sharp metal bars that often accompany them. Unfortunately, not only can these metal bars be uncomfortable for you and your guests, but they can also be dangerous.
Fortunately, there is an easy solution—a bar shield that will keep everyone safe and comfortable while ensuring that your sleeper sofa looks great. So, let’s take a look at how to make a sleeper sofa bar shield!
What is a Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield?
A sleeper sofa bar shield is essentially a cover that goes over the metal bars of a sleeper sofa, creating a smooth and comfortable surface. This allows you to use your sleeper sofa as both a couch and a bed without any concerns about sharp metal bars poking through. It is a must-have for anyone with a sleeper sofa in their home, especially if they frequently have guests staying over. You can purchase a pre-made bar shield, but making your own is a budget-friendly and customizable option.
Can You Make a Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield?
Creating a shield for a sleeper sofa makes one think of a giant jigsaw puzzle! However, most of the effort required will be in gathering the materials and having patience with installation. Luckily, it doesn’t require any expertise to make and assemble one.
To start, all you need is an upholstery fabric that stretches properly, strong batting paper or quilt batting material, and some lightweight plywood. Then, simply cut these materials to the appropriate sizes needed to cover the sleeper sofa’s frame.
Then use glue, staples, and tacks to attach them together. This makeshift shield can provide extra comfort levels along with a protective barrier from dirt, dust, and allergies on your sleeper sofa.
Why Should You Make a Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield?
A sleeper sofa bar shield is an important piece of furniture for anyone with a sofa bed in their home. It provides an extra layer of protection by keeping your kids or pets from falling out and helps protect the fabric cover on the sleeper sofa from dirt and grime.
Additionally, the bar shield gives a sense of security as it helps to muffle any noise that may occur when someone moves around in the bed. Investing in a sleeper sofa bar shield will ultimately save you time and money as it will help increase your sofa bed’s life span.
Needed Materials:
Upholstery Fabric:
To ensure that the bar shield looks great while providing maximum comfort, choose a fabric that is stretchy and durable. You can purchase upholstery fabric from any craft or fabric store. Make sure to select enough fabric to cover the entire frame of your sleeper sofa.
Batting Paper/Quilt Batting Material:
This material will provide cushioning for the bar shields, making them more comfortable to sit on and sleep on.
Lightweight Plywood:
You will need a piece of lightweight plywood that is the same size as your sleeper sofa frame. This will serve as the base for your bar shield.
Staple Gun:
A staple gun is essential for attaching all the materials together securely. Make sure to use strong staples that won’t easily come out.
Glue:
You will need a strong adhesive to help bond the materials together. Make sure to use an appropriate glue that can withstand wear and tear over time.
Scissors:
Having sharp scissors on hand will make cutting through fabric, batting paper, and plywood much easier. Make sure to have a pair of heavy-duty scissors for this project.
Measuring Tape:
A measuring tape is crucial for ensuring that all the materials are cut to the appropriate size for your sleeper sofa frame. Make sure to measure twice and cut once!
How to Make a Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield in 11 Easy Steps:
Step 1: Measure
Using your measuring tape, measure the length and width of your sleeper sofa frame. Make sure to add an extra 2-3 inches on each side to account for the thickness of the materials and any wrinkles that may occur. The final measurement should be the size of your lightweight plywood. You will need to repeat this process for each section of your sleeper sofa frame. It is important to have accurate measurements to ensure a proper fit for your bar shield.
Step 2: Cut Fabric
Using your measurements, cut your upholstery fabric to the appropriate size. Make sure to leave extra fabric on each side for wrapping around the frame. Otherwise, the fabric may not be able to stretch properly. You will need to cut fabric for each section of your sleeper sofa frame. The fabric should be slightly larger than your lightweight plywood. You should also cut a small strip of fabric to cover the edges of your plywood.
Step 3: Cut Batting Paper/Quilt Batting Material
Using the same measurements, cut the batting paper or quilt batting material to the appropriate size. This will provide cushioning for your bar shield. You will also need to cut a small strip of batting paper/batting material to cover the edges of your lightweight plywood. You should have one piece of fabric and one piece of batting paper per section. The batting paper should be slightly smaller than your upholstery fabric.
Step 4: Cut Lightweight Plywood
Using your measurements, cut the lightweight plywood to the appropriate size. Make sure that it is slightly larger than your sleeper sofa frame to ensure proper coverage. Otherwise, the bar shield may not fit snugly against the frame. The plywood should also be the same size as your fabric and batting paper. You will need to cut a piece of plywood for each section of your sleeper sofa frame. It is important to use lightweight plywood, as using a heavy one may affect the functionality of your sleeper sofa.
Step 5: Attach Fabric and Batting Paper/Batting Material to Plywood
Lay out the fabric on a flat surface and place the batting paper/batting material on top. Then, place your lightweight plywood on top of that. Make sure that all edges are aligned. Starting at one end, pull the fabric taut and staple it to the plywood. Repeat this process for each side, making sure to leave a 1-2 inch gap between each staple. Once the fabric is securely attached, trim off any excess fabric.
Step 6: Attach Fabric and Batting Paper/Batting Material to Sleeper Sofa Frame
Now that your bar shield is assembled, it’s time to attach it to your sleeper sofa frame. Start with one end of the frame, and using your staple gun, attach the fabric to the frame. Make sure to pull the fabric taut and use enough staples to hold it in place securely. Otherwise, the fabric may come loose over time. The fabric should cover the entire frame, so be sure to stretch it as you go. Repeat this process for each section of your sleeper sofa frame.
Step 7: Repeat for All Sections
Repeat this process for each section of your sleeper sofa frame. Take care to make sure that all edges are aligned and that the fabric is pulled taut before stapling. You may need to trim off excess fabric as you go. Although this may seem like a time-consuming process, it is crucial for ensuring a professional-looking final product. It will also help guarantee that your sleeper sofa bar shield lasts for years to come.
Step 8: Glue Edges
Once all the fabric and batting paper/batting material are attached, use glue to secure the edges. This will provide a cleaner, more finished look. You can also use glue to secure any loose ends of fabric or batting paper on the back of your bar shield. It is important to use a strong adhesive that can withstand wear and tear over time. You may need to hold the edges in place until the glue sets. But once it does, your bar shield will be even more secure.
Step 9: Let Dry
Allow the glue to dry completely before moving on to the next step. This may take a few hours, so be patient. You want to make sure that the glue has fully set before using your sleeper sofa bar shield. The last thing you want is for it to come apart after all your hard work. Although it may be tempting to skip this step, having patience will ensure a more durable and long-lasting bar shield.
Step 10: Attach Plywood Edges to Frame
Using your staple gun, attach the edges of the plywood to the frame. Make sure that all edges are aligned and that there is enough tension in the fabric for a secure fit. Otherwise, the bar shield may not hold up when your sleeper sofa is in use. You may need to use more staples in this step to ensure that the plywood is securely attached to the frame. It may also be helpful to have someone hold the bar shield in place while you staple.
Step 11: Enjoy Your New Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield!
With your bar shield securely attached, you can now enjoy your sleeper sofa with added protection and comfort. You can also customize your bar shield by adding decorative elements such as buttons or trim. With proper care, your sleeper sofa bar shield can provide years of use and enjoyment for you and your family.
Now you know how to make a sleeper sofa bar shield in just six easy steps. With these simple instructions, you can upgrade your furniture and create an even more comfortable space for lounging. So get your supplies and start crafting! You won’t regret it.
Things You Need to Know Before Making a Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield
If you’re looking to make a sleeper sofa bar shield, you should know a few things. First and foremost, it’s important to choose a fabric that is both sturdy enough to withstand wear and tear and comfortable enough for frequent use. You should also carefully measure the shield size to fit your sofa perfectly.
It’s also wise to consider your budget when selecting materials for the project. Last but not least, be sure to opt for quality craftsmanship over quantity — those extra stitches could be the difference between a sleeper sofa shield that will last you years or one that needs replacing after only a few weeks.
5 Benefits of Making a Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield
1. Comfort
One of the primary benefits of making a sleeper sofa bar shield is that it can improve the comfort of your sofa. If you have a sofa that is uncomfortable to sleep on, a bar shield can help make it more comfortable. By adding a bar shield, you can create a barrier between the mattress and the sofa’s frame, which can help make the sofa more comfortable to sleep on.
2. Support
Another benefit of making a sleeper sofa bar shield is that it can provide additional support for your mattress. If you have a mattress that is too soft or too firm, a bar shield can help to provide additional support. This can help improve your sleep quality and make your mattress last longer.
3. Protection
A sleeper sofa bar shield can also help to protect your mattress from wear and tear. Over time, mattresses can become worn down from use. A bar shield can help protect your mattress from wear and tear, which can help extend its lifespan. Additionally, if you have pets or children, a bar shield can help to keep them from damaging your mattress.
4. Easy to Clean
Another benefit of making a sleeper sofa bar shield is that it can easily be cleaned. Unlike many other types of furniture covers, bar shields are typically made from materials that are easy to clean and care for. This means that you won’t have to spend much time or effort cleaning your bar shield, which can save you time and money in the long run.
5. Affordable
Finally, one of the best benefits of making a sleeper sofa bar shield is that it is an affordable way to improve the comfort and quality of your sofa. Bar shields are typically much less expensive than buying new furniture or replacing your entire sofa. Additionally, if you make your own bar shield, you can save even more money.
Some Common Mistakes People Make When Trying to Make a Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield
Building a bar shield for a sleeper sofa can be intimidating. It’s important to remember that getting the right measurements and cutting the pieces is essential. Common mistakes people make when building a bar shield are not buying enough foam, measuring incorrectly, or cutting off too much fabric.
It’s also easy to forget about sewing in an invisible zipper or not double-checking measurements once it’s all put together. Taking your time and double-checking everything can save you from starting over from scratch with this project. Focusing on the details step-by-step is key to success when creating this useful decor piece!
The Do’s and Don’ts of Diy Sleeper Sofa Bar Shielding
If you are considering installing a DIY sleeper sofa bar shield in your home, you should keep a few things in mind. First, measuring the dimensions of the area in which you plan to install the shield is important.
This will help ensure that you purchase a shield with the right size and shape for your space, allowing you to maximize protection while creating an aesthetically pleasing look.
Additionally, be sure to consider the weight capacity of your bar shielding, as it needs to be able to support potential loads that could occur should someone come into contact with it.
Lastly, take care when securing the shield into place by using appropriate anchors and screws that can handle its specific weight load. These steps will help ensure that your DIY sleeper sofa bar shielding job meets safety standards while looking great!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: How Long Does It Take to Make a Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield?
A1: The time it takes to make a sleeper sofa bar shield can vary depending on your sewing skills and the complexity of the design. However, with the proper tools and materials, it should only take a few hours from start to finish. It can be a fun and easy weekend project to complete.
Q2: Can I Use Any Fabric for My Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield?
A2: While you can technically use any fabric for your sleeper sofa bar shield, it’s important to choose one that is durable and comfortable. Fabrics such as canvas, denim, or twill are good options as they are sturdy and can withstand wear and tear. Avoid using delicate materials that may rip or tear easily.
Q3: Can I Customize the Size of My Sleeper Sofa Bar Shield?
A3: Yes, you can definitely customize the size of your sleeper sofa bar shield to fit your specific sofa. It’s important to measure carefully and accurately before cutting the fabric to ensure a perfect fit. You can also adjust the thickness of the foam to provide more or less support, depending on you and your sofa’s needs.
Conclusion
Making a sleeper sofa bar shield is an easy way to ensure that both you and your guests stay safe from sharp metal bars while also making sure that your sleeper sofa looks great.
With just a few simple steps—gathering supplies, measuring and cutting pieces and then sewing everything together—you can create a custom-fit bar shield in no time! So, have fun crafting yours today! Thanks for reading our post about how to make a sleeper sofa bar shield.
