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How to Make Quick And Easy Outdoor Cushions DIY

Introduction:

Here is the weekend project – outdoor cushions DIY , that creates comfortable and stylish Outdoor cushions. Creating your own outdoor cushions DIY can be a fun and affordable option project,  allowing you to add a personal touch to your outdoor space. Whether you want to refresh your old cushion covers or customize your outdoor furniture, outdoor cushions DIY offers a practical and creative solution.

This outdoor cushion DIY brings charm and an amazing look to your outdoor space.

 Making your own cushions, you can choose your favorite fabric, size, and style to match your taste and the ambiance of your garden, patio, or balcony.In this Outdoor cushions DIY project, we will be making cushions for our couch that we built. Please find the tutorial for outdoor couch here.

Step-by-step outdoor cushions DIY

If you like to see it all in action, please watch the video here.

Table of Contents

What type of fabric is best to use for outdoor cushions DIY?

While choosing fabric for outdoor cushions, it’s important to right material that can withstand the elements, including sun exposure, rain, humidity, and temperature fluctuations. It’s better to choose a water-resistant original fabric because it performs well even in harsh weather conditions.

Note: Using a water resistant fabric will give extra protection to the cushion foam.

For outdoor cushions DIY, a water resistant fabric will give extra protection to the cushion foam and also it performs well even in harsh weather conditions.

Materials:

  1. FOAM 3-in Thick Multi-Purpose Foam
  2. Waterproof table cloth
  3. Basting Tape
  4. Nylon Zipper

Tools Required:

  1. Sewing Machine
  2. Scissors
  3. Measuring tape or Acrylic ruler
  4. Pencil

Steps to Make Your Own Outdoor Cushions DIY

Step 1: Measure the outdoor or Patio Furniture:

I started this outdoor cushion DIY project by measuring the patio furniture. I measured the width and length of each seat on our outdoor couch where the new cushions will go.

While making an outdoor cushions DIY It is important to measure the width and length of each seat where the new cushions will go.

Step 2: How to cut the Foam of the custom cushions:

Size of the Cushion Foam:

The outdoor foam that I used inside the cushions I got it from Home Depot. I used a high-density multipurpose foam of size 2×6 and it is 3 inches thick.

The width and length of the cushion foam should be 0.5 inches more than the cushion and the desired width and length of the cushion is 24″ x 72″ x3″.

Cutting the Cushion Foam:

I used scissors to cut the foam, but the cushion foam is too thick so I thought a kitchen knife would do a much better job. It is much easier to use a kitchen knife than scissors.

Tip: My suggestion is to use sharp scissors to cut the cushion foam.

Note: While cutting make sure the cushion foam should be a half-inch slightly bigger than the cushion cover.

Mark the measurements on the foam to your desired width and length and cut the foam by using a sharp knife

Step 3: Cut the Cushion fabric:

Cut the fabric:

Outdoor cushions are expensive, and custom-made ones are even more so. If you’re seeking a more affordable option, making your own DIY cushions is a great way. That’s why I decided to create my own cost-effectively and creatively.

To wrap around the foam, I used a water resistant tablecloth. These are 100% water resistant vinyl tablecloths. I got these tablecloths from Amazon, where there are so many different color and patterns even tested these tablecloths with some water, and it did not go through, so I decided to give it a shot.

I just got a large one, a 60×80-inch rectangular tablecloth, and used it to stitch the cushion.

To wrap around the foam, I used a water resistant tablecloth. After measuring once or twice, I got the right measurements for the outdoor cushion covers then, I started cutting.

After measuring once or twice, I got the right measurements for the outdoor cushion covers. Then, I started cutting and removed the excess fabric. Proper care should be taken while cutting the water-resistant tablecloth.

Width: 2x cushion width + 2x height of the cushion + zipper allowance.

Tip: To make it easy use the website fabriccalculator.com to calculate the final cover measurements. You just enter the measurements of the cushion, and you will get the required measurements for the fabric.

Cut the center notches:

Measurements for Outdoor DIY

As shown in the diagram, You will have to cut the edges and center notches.

I used this website to calculate the notch dimensions. Just enter desired width and height along with fabric dimensions and it clearly tells you how to cut the notches.

Step 4: Stick the basking tape on either side of the zipper:

Now let’s take a zipper and add this basing taper on both Edges. Basking tape is a double-sided tape or Glue tape. It keeps the fabric together, making it 10x times easier to stitch. It also helps in getting a clean finished look.

While stitching, make sure the zipper length is 2 inches longer than the final length of the cushion.

zipper length = cushion length + 2 ” inches

Let's take a zipper and add this basing taper on both Edges. It keeps the fabric together, making it 10x times easier to stitch.

Repeat the process on both sides of the zipper face.

Step 5: Stick the basking tape on both edges along the length of the fabric:

Next, I’m sticking the basting tape to the edge of the fabric where the zipper will go. Use a ruler and draw a 25-inch line on the edge of the fabric. Then, fold the fabric along the line so that the fold will be even throughout.

Stick the basting tape to the edge of the outdoor cushion's DIY fabric where the zipper will go. Use a ruler and draw a 25-inch line on the edge of the fabric. Then, fold the fabric.

Step 6: Stick the zipper to the open edge of the fabric:

 Now, take the zipper we just prepared and stick it to the fabric. Stick it in a way that the zipper face is not visible in between the edges.

Stick the zipper to the edge of the fabric. stick it in a way that the zipper face should not be visible.

Step 7: Sewing the zipper and edges:

It is time to show sewing skills.

Stitch the zipper along the length:

 Now separate the zipper strips. Open the zipper and then start stitching on the back side of the fabric since it is already glued.

Open the zipper and start stitching on the back side of the outdoor cushion's DIY fabric since it is already glued.

Stitch the edges along the width:

Open edges on both sides along the width this should close the cover on all sides except the corners. Now, insert the zipper clip into the zipper foot and drag it away from the corner. We will be sticking those corners very soon.

Open edges on both sides along the width this should close the cover on all sides except the corners.

Step 8: Stitch the corners:

My favorite part is stitching the corners. .Open each corner and fold them diagonally, shaping them into triangles I would use a double-sided stitch here to ensure the stitches remain secure over time. Now that our new cushion covers are ready, insert the cushion foam into them.

Open each corner and fold them diagonally, shaping them into triangles and then double-sided stitch the outdoor cushions DIY fabric to secure over time

Finally, the outdoor patio cushions are ready. To Enhance the outdoor space I added an outdoor rug, couch, and a lamp to beautify the beautiful corner, and now you’re all set.

Decorate the outdoor space by adding an outdoor rug, couch, and a lamp to beautify the beautiful corner.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some essential tips for buying the perfect outdoor cushions?

When shopping for outdoor cushions, several key factors should guide your decision. The popular choice is to choose weather resistant fabrics like vinyl or olefin, which can withstand harsh weather conditions and moisture. 

Durability is crucial, so look for strong stitching and materials that resist fading and tearing. Comfort is also important; choose cushions with supportive foam and a soft exterior. Ensure the cushions are easy to maintain, ideally with removable, washable covers. 

Consider the size and fit for your furniture, and select colors and designs that complement your outdoor decor. Lastly, check for UV protection and good drainage to prevent mold. Taking these factors into account will help you select outdoor cushions that enhance both comfort and style in your outdoor living space.

Conclusion:

Creating your own outdoor patio cushions can be a cost-effective DIY project. By choosing durable, weather resistant outdoor fabric and following the steps —from measuring and cutting to sewing and finishing—you can customize cushions that suit your style and withstand the elements. With attention to detail and the right materials, you can enjoy comfortable and stylish outdoor seating for years to come. 

Detailed video is also posted on Our Home In Making YouTube channel.

Good luck and start crafting!

Hi!! I'm Gowthami

I am passionate about changing my builder-grade house into a home I love. I love DIY and sharing all my successes and failures in this process and I hope to inspire your next project. Thank you for hanging around!

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