Diy Arm Chair Covers

I still remember the first time I tried covering an old arm chair with fabric. The chair was a hand-me-down from my grandmother, and the fabric was faded from years of use. But after a few hours of measuring, cutting, and sewing, I had a brand-new look that felt like a fresh start. DIY arm chair covers are one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to refresh your living space. With the right materials, tools, and a little patience, you can transform an outdated piece of furniture into something that fits your personal style and budget.

What makes DIY arm chair covers so appealing is their versatility. Whether you want to add a pop of color to a neutral room, protect your furniture from spills, or simply give it a new lease on life, a custom cover is the way to go. I’ve done this project multiple times, and each time I’ve used different materials—everything from cotton to velvet—and I’ve always been impressed with the results. The key is to take your time, measure twice, and sew with care.

This is not just a project for experienced sewers. I’m a self-taught DIYer who started with basic projects and gradually took on more complex ones. If you can handle a sewing machine and have a basic understanding of how to measure and cut fabric, you can absolutely create a stunning arm chair cover. I’ve even seen beginners complete this project in a weekend with just a few simple tools and a little guidance. Let’s dive in and see how you can do the same.

Materials You’ll Need for Your DIY Arm Chair Cover

As of August 2026, Choosing the right fabric is the first step in your DIY arm chair cover project. I like to use cotton or microfiber for everyday use, as they are comfortable and easy to clean. For a more luxurious look, I’ve used velvet or chenille, which add a rich texture and depth to any room. I always recommend buying a little extra fabric to allow for mistakes or adjustments.^[1]

Next, you’ll need a sewing machine. If you don’t have one, I’ve found that many community centers and local libraries have machines available for public use. You’ll also need thread that matches your fabric color, as well as a measuring tape to ensure your cover fits perfectly. Don’t forget the pins—they are essential for keeping your fabric in place while you sew.

Other materials to consider include foam padding for added comfort or a decorative trim to give your cover a finished look. I’ve used foam padding on a couple of my chairs, and it makes a huge difference in how the chair feels and looks. Just be sure to measure your chair carefully before purchasing any additional materials.

Measuring Your Chair: The Foundation of a Perfect Fit

Start by measuring the height of your chair from the floor to the top of the backrest. Then measure the width from one armrest to the other. I also take the depth of the seat into account, as this will determine how much fabric you’ll need for the bottom part of the cover. I recommend taking these measurements multiple times to avoid any errors.^[2]

Once you have your measurements, I like to add a few extra inches to each dimension to account for any mistakes or adjustments. This gives you room to play with the fit and ensures the cover doesn’t feel too tight. I’ve made the mistake of not adding enough extra fabric before, and it was a pain to adjust later.

After taking your measurements, I find it helpful to sketch a rough layout of the cover on paper. This helps me visualize how the fabric will be cut and sewn together. You can also use a ruler or measuring tape to mark your fabric as you cut it, ensuring you get the right dimensions.

Measure twice, cut once—this is the mantra I live by when working on DIY projects.

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Cutting and Sewing Your DIY Arm Chair Cover

After cutting your fabric to the correct dimensions, I like to pin the pieces together before sewing. This keeps everything in place and prevents shifting as I work. I’ve found that using a walking foot on my sewing machine helps the fabric feed evenly, which is especially important when working with thicker materials.

I start by sewing the backrest of the cover first, making sure the seams are straight and even. Once the backrest is complete, I move on to the seat and armrests, attaching them one at a time. I always take my time with this step, as it’s easy to sew something out of place and have to undo it later.

After all the pieces are sewn together, I finish the edges of the fabric using a serger or a zigzag stitch on my sewing machine. This prevents the fabric from fraying and gives the cover a clean, finished look. I’ve noticed that this step makes a huge difference in the overall quality of the cover.

“I still remember the first time I tried covering an old arm chair with fabric.”— DIY Furniture with Concrete Accents editors

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Adding Padding and Foam for Extra Comfort

If you want your chair to feel more comfortable, consider adding foam padding. I’ve used foam pads that are 1 inch thick and have found that they provide just the right amount of support without making the chair feel too firm. I always measure the seat of the chair before purchasing foam, as it’s important to get the right size.

To attach the foam, I use a strong fabric glue or double-sided tape. I’ve also used basting stitches to secure the foam in place before sewing the final cover. This ensures the foam stays in place and doesn’t shift over time.

Once the foam is in place, I cover it with the fabric and sew the cover as usual. This method not only adds comfort but also makes your chair more durable, as the foam helps protect the underlying structure of the chair from wear and tear.

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Finishing Touches: Trimming and Decorative Details

After the main cover is sewn and the foam is in place, I like to add a decorative trim or piping around the edges. This gives the cover a more finished look and adds a touch of style. I’ve used both fabric trims and decorative trims that I found at local craft stores.

Another great addition is a decorative button or tassel on the backrest. I’ve used buttons that match the fabric color and added them for a subtle but elegant touch. These details may seem small, but they can make a big difference in the overall look of the chair.

I also like to add a label with my initials or the date I made the cover. This is a personal touch that I find satisfying, and it’s a way to take pride in my work. It also makes it easier to identify my covers if I ever need to move them.

Testing and Adjusting Your DIY Arm Chair Cover

Once your cover is complete, I like to put it on the chair and see how it looks and feels. If it’s too tight or too loose, I make adjustments before the final installation. I’ve found that it’s easier to make changes at this stage than after the cover is completely sewn.

I also test the cover for comfort by sitting in the chair for a few minutes. If the fabric feels too stiff or the foam is too firm, I adjust the padding or choose a different fabric. This step helps ensure that the cover is both functional and comfortable.

Once I’m satisfied with the fit and comfort, I can move the cover to its final location and enjoy the results. I’ve completed several DIY arm chair covers over the years, and each time I’ve made adjustments based on how the cover performed during testing.

A little testing goes a long way in ensuring your DIY project looks and feels just right.

Maintaining Your DIY Arm Chair Cover

To keep your DIY arm chair cover in good condition, I recommend spot cleaning it regularly with a mild soap and water solution. This helps remove any stains or dirt without damaging the fabric. I’ve found that using a microfiber cloth is the best way to clean the cover, as it doesn’t leave any residue behind.^[3]

For more stubborn stains, I sometimes use a fabric cleaner that’s specifically designed for upholstery. I always test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the cover before using it on the entire piece. This helps ensure the cleaner doesn’t damage the fabric.

If your cover is made of a fabric that can be machine washed, I recommend washing it separately in a gentle cycle with cold water. I’ve found that this helps keep the fabric looking fresh and new for longer. I also use a fabric softener to keep the cover feeling soft and comfortable. (8451, ustr.gov)^[4]

Diy Arm Chair Covers