How to Buy a Slipcover
Slipcovers are an inexpensive way of preserving or refreshing the appearance of furniture. They are useful for protecting expensive furniture from children and pets, recovering worn items, or tying mismatched pieces together. Whether you are purchasing a pre-made or custom-made slipcover, it is important to take measurements of the furniture. Then you must consider other factors, such as the décor of the room and the durability of the fabric. Keeping these factors in mind when shopping for slipcovers will help simplify the process.
Choose between custom and pre-made slipcovers. You can purchase pre-made slipcovers instantly but you will have to make do with what you get since all sofas are different. Custom made slipcovers will fit your sofas well and you can select just the fabric you need but you will have to pay more for it.
Measure your furniture. The type of measurements you need depends on the furniture you wish to cover. Manufacturers of pre-made slipcovers include a sizing chart in the packaging or on their websites to guide you. Measurements for custom-made slipcovers are more complex and vary depending on the manufacturer. These manufacturers also have specific guidelines for taking measurements.
Search for a pre-made slipcover that matches your current furniture. For instance, if you are matching a new loveseat to your current sofa, look for a slipcover that has a similar fabric, color and pattern.
Pick a slipcover that matches your living room décor. Some factors to consider are the color and the pattern of the slipcover that will fit the traditional, casual or contemporary look of the room.
Select a fabric. Choose a fabric that is durable enough to fit the amount of use the chair is subjected to. Also ensure that the fabric of your slipcover is thick enough to hide the bold pattern on your furniture, if applicable.
Select a slipcover for the type of furniture you wish to cover. There are slipcovers for sofas, loveseats, dining chairs, ottomans and more.
Purchase your slipcovers as part of a set. This is ideal if you need coverings for your living room set and may be more cost-effective than purchasing each piece separately. Three-piece sets usually include slipcovers for a loveseat, a sofa and an armchair. Some sets have additional accessories such as pillows, which are sold separately.
Consider purchasing two sets of slipcovers, one for daily use and the other for special occasions. In So Simple Slipcovers, Authors Gail Abbott and Cate Burren also recommend slipcovers to suit the seasons: "We sometimes suggest two sets of slipcovers: one that's cozy for winter, and another that's light and casual for summer."
Tip:
Most online retailers provide guides that show you how to measure your furniture for a slip cover.
Consider placing a white sheet between your slipcover and sofa if the slipcover is of thin fabric and the sofa has a bold pattern or color.
Warning:
Slipcovers manufactured to fit any sofa usually don't look appealing. Semi-custom fit slipcovers are your best bet.
References:
So Simple Slipcovers; Abbott, Gail, Burren, Cate; 2005
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