I need step by step directions on how to make a bench cushion for my kitchen table.?
Question:I bought an Ikea kitchen bench and I would like to make a cushion for it. I have a vague idea how to do it - and the supplies I'll need, but I think I should have some step by step instructions just in case.
Is it as simple as plywood, spray adhesive, foam, and fabric??
Answers:
You seem to be on the right track. You did not say if the top if the bench is finished. I am assuming that it is not.
You can adhere the foam to the plywood, but it is not necessary as the fabric will hold the foam into place.
1. Place fabric face down on a clean surface.
2. Place a layer of polyester batting down on the fabric.
3. Place foam cushion top of the batting.
4. Place the plywood over the foam.
5. Smooth the batting over the foam and plywood. Staple one side of the batting, Mitre the corners of the foam so that it is not bulky. (You may need to trim some of the batting. Staple the opposite side, then finish the remaining sides.
6. I like to sew the corners of the fabric for a finished edge, but you can carefully fold the corners of the fabric, (like a gift) and staple the fabric in the same manner as the batting.
You can then screw the bench to the bottom of the plywood.
YOU ARE DONE!
If the cushion in loose, the easiest way to do this is to sew the fabric on three sides and 1/3 of the way on each end of the remaining side. (Making a pillow case type cover.) Then turn the cover inside out. Take each corner and form a triangle from the flattened sides of the corners. Sew a seam on each corner the depth of the cushion. This gives a nice finished look. Turn inside - out. Then stuff cover with pillow and then hand sew the remaining portion of the seam.
It depends if you are wrapping the ex histing top of the bench or just making a cushion to cover it.
If wrapping it , measure your material and make it 3-6 inches bigger. If you are using foam cut it to size. Cut a piece of batting same as the fabric.
Start by removing the wooden top. If it has hinges remove them also. Hope the hinges are inside and not out.Lay the fabric down (good side facing the floor). Lay the batting down and next the cushion. Place the wooden top down over that.
Begin in the center of the board on one side, and staple it. Continuing from the center out staple another one to the left than go to the right of the 1st staple. Go alongside the farther left staple and back to the right on. Makes it even. continue till you reach the corner.
Cross over to the opposite side of the 1st staple and staple the center but this time pull it taught. Not super tight but snug. Going left to right again pulling the same tension all the way to the corners.
Then staple your ends in the same manner. From center out.
Cut excess fabric away.
Re-apply hinges. Make sure the fabric doesn't get caught in the hinges or sides.
Good luck.
Since it will be in the kitchen, don't attach it. It will not be removable. The best way is to make a cover for a piece of foam the size of the bench, and put in a zipper. Use washable fabric. When it gets dirty, take the cover off, wash it and replace.
More Related Questions & Answers...