Sofa Arm Covers

Sofa Arm Covers: How to Cover Sofa Arms and Make Arm Covers for Sofas

Sofa arm covers are an essential accessory for any household that wants to protect their furniture from daily wear and tear, spills, and stains. They offer a practical solution to prolong the life of your sofa while adding a touch of style. In this blog, we’ll explore how to cover sofa arms and how to make arm covers for sofas, providing a comprehensive guide for both ready-made and DIY options.

Why Use Sofa Arm Covers?

Before diving into the "how-to," let's understand why sofa arm covers are beneficial:

1. Protection: Sofa arm covers protect the most frequently used parts of your furniture from dirt, oil, and damage.
2. Aesthetic Appeal: They can enhance the look of your sofa, adding a fresh, new appearance.
3. Cost-Effective: Covers extend the life of your sofa, making them a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new furniture.
4. Easy Maintenance: Most covers are removable and machine washable, making them easy to clean.

For a variety of high-quality sofa arm covers, check out SofaCoverUK’s collection.

How to Cover Sofa Arms

Covering sofa arms can be straightforward if you follow these steps:

Materials Needed

• Fabric of your choice
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Upholstery needle and thread (optional)
• Velcro strips or elastic bands (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure Your Sofa Arms

Begin by measuring the dimensions of your sofa arms. Take the following measurements:

• Length of the arm from the front to the back
• Width of the arm from one side to the other
• Height from the base of the arm to the top

Record these measurements accurately as they will guide you in cutting your fabric.

Step 2: Choose Your Fabric

Select a durable, easy-to-clean fabric that matches your home decor. Popular choices include cotton, linen, and polyester blends. For inspiration, explore SofaCoverUK’s sofa covers.

Step 3: Cut the Fabric

Using your measurements, cut the fabric pieces accordingly:

• One piece for the top of the arm
• Two pieces for the sides
• One piece for the front panel (if desired)

Add an extra inch to each measurement for seam allowances.

Step 4: Pin and Sew the Pieces

Pin the fabric pieces together inside out. Start with the top piece and attach the side pieces, then add the front panel if using one. Sew along the pinned edges, ensuring a snug but not too tight fit.

Step 5: Fit and Secure the Cover

Turn the cover right side out and fit it onto the sofa arm. Check for any adjustments needed. If desired, use Velcro strips or elastic bands to secure the cover in place, especially if you have an active household with kids or pets.

How to Make Arm Covers for Sofas

If you prefer a custom solution, making your own arm covers for sofas can be a rewarding DIY project. Here's a detailed guide to help you create tailored arm covers:

Materials Needed

• Fabric of your choice
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Upholstery needle and thread (optional)
• Batting or padding (optional for extra comfort)
• Velcro strips or elastic bands (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure and Design

Begin by measuring the dimensions of your sofa arms as described earlier. Sketch a rough design of your arm covers, noting the measurements and any additional features like pockets or padding.

Step 2: Choose and Prepare Fabric

Select a fabric that suits your style and needs. Pre-wash the fabric to prevent shrinkage later. Cut the fabric pieces according to your design, adding seam allowances.

Step 3: Add Padding (Optional)

If you want extra comfort, cut pieces of batting or padding to fit the top of the sofa arms. Layer the padding on top of the fabric pieces before sewing.

Step 4: Pin and Sew

Pin the fabric pieces together inside out, incorporating any padding. Sew along the edges, leaving an opening to turn the cover right side out. Once sewn, turn the cover right side out and stitch the opening closed.

Step 5: Fit and Adjust

Fit the cover onto the sofa arm, checking for any necessary adjustments. Secure the cover with Velcro strips or elastic bands if desired.

Tips for a Perfect Fit

• Pre-wash Fabric: Wash and dry your fabric before cutting to prevent shrinkage after sewing.
• Use Quality Thread: Ensure you use strong, matching thread to maintain the cover’s durability.
• Double Stitching: Reinforce seams by double stitching, especially around high-stress areas like the arms and seat.

Conclusion

Creating or buying sofa arm covers is a practical way to protect and refresh your furniture. Whether you opt for a DIY project or choose ready-made options, arm covers can enhance both the appearance and longevity of your sofa. For those who prefer ready-made covers, SofaCoverUK offers a wide selection.

Explore SofaCoverUK’s diverse collections for all your cover needs:

• Sofa Covers
• Armchair Covers
• Recliner Covers
• Wing Chair Covers

By following these steps, you can easily transform your sofa with a beautiful, custom-fit cover. Happy crafting!