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One-Piece Sofa Slipcover Tutorial: Part 2

If you missed part one of the one-piece slipcover tutorial, you can find it HERE.


In this post, I'm going to show how to cut out the pieces of the fabric, and one of the tricks that make the slipcover look like it has individual cushions.


With a large ruler, I cut the three large rectangles of fabric for the front of the sofa. I then measured, in the same way, I did the front, and cut three pieces of fabric for the back of the sofa. So, at this point, I have three large rectangles for the front, and three for the back. int where the skirt begins. For the width,(not pictured) I measured across the center cushion and down into the crevices on either side. Because the sofa is divided into three equal sections, I needed three individual pieces of fabric for the sofa back and seat. I added one inch to the measured length and width, which allows for a 1/2 inch seam allowance. I could have done one big piece, but then I would have forfeited the look I was going for.


Here is a sneak peek. Cutting the front into equal pieces, and adding the piping between each piece, is the first step in giving the slipcover the appearance of individually covered cushions. There is a step two that I will share tomorrow.


With a large ruler, I cut the three large rectangles of fabric for the front of the sofa. I then measured, in the same way I did the front, and cut three pieces of fabric for the back of the sofa. So, at this point, I have three large rectangles for the front, and three for the back.


Adding 1/2 inch for seam allowance, I cut out the two outside backs of the sofa.


I then cut out the front of the arms. These are always the hardest for me. Notice I traced around a lid so that the pieces would match.


I cut out the two sides............


I taped two pieces of craft paper together to get a good "roll" for the arm pattern. I cut the two arms, allowing for a 1-inch seam allowance all the way around. I have learned through trial and error, that the arms are the trickest part and it's better to have a little extra fabric than not enough.


I measured across the front of the sofa and cut one long piece of fabric for the front skirt panel, which the seat, front of the arms, and skirt will attach. Let's recap all cut pieces at this point.


Pieces of Sofa:

3 large rectangles for sofa back and seat

3 large rectangles for the back of the sofa

2 arms

2 fronts of arms

2 sides

2 outside backs

1 front skirt panel


15 pieces total, not including the cording/welting, pleated skirt, or ties.


While sewing a slipcover may seem overwhelming, and beyond your capability, it is relatively easy when broken down into manageable, daily parts. When the one part is finished for that day, leave it and move on to something else. Returning the following day, with "fresh" eyes, keeps sewing projects from being a dreaded chore.


As with all projects, I welcome your comments and questions. If you need clarification on any of my tutorials, please reach out to me. As stated before, my desire is to inspire and be HELPFUL!!!!






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