Practical Pet-Friendly Slipcovers for Queen Anne Dining Chairs
Having pets can be wonderful, but their hair and messes can take a toll on furniture. Slipcovers provide a practical way to protect dining chairs from pet damage while adding style. We'll walk through how to sew custom slipcovers for Queen Anne chairs, step-by-step.
These removable, machine-washable covers allow easy cleanup when accidents happen. They also give a quick home makeover. Follow along to DIY and save or get inspiration for custom orders.
Why Choose Slipcovers for Queen Anne Chairs
Queen Anne dining chairs feature elegant curved backs, cabriole legs, and often, upholstered seats. Their delicate fabric is prone to pet damage and stains.
Slipcovers are an affordable solution to protect chairs in high-traffic areas while complementing your room's style.
Benefits of Using Slipcovers
- Guard against pet hair, shedding, scratches, spills, and accidents
- Allow easy removal for washing and replacing
- Give worn chairs a quick facelift
- Customize prints, colors to match decor
- Fit various backs like Queen Anne, Chippendale
Choosing Fabric and Materials
Start by selecting a durable, upholstery-grade fabric for the main slipcover such as cotton duck, cotton twill, or linen. Then match a lining fabric, often muslin or broadcloth.
You'll Also Need
- Matching thread
- Velcro & sewing notions
- Fabric marker
- Tape measure
Take Precise Measurements
Measuring accurately ensures a perfect custom fit. Have your Queen Anne dining chair on hand to:
- Measure seat width, length, and height
- Measure from outer arm edge to outer arm edge
- Note height along chair back and width at top/bottom
Consider Seam Allowances
When cutting fabric, add about 10.5 inches to seat measurements for slipcovers with a smooth, tailored look.
Allow more like 12-15 inches extra if you prefer a looser style.
Cutting Out Fabric Pieces
Use your measurements to cut fabric. Main tips:
- Cut main fabric and lining panels
- Shape fabric to contour corners, curves
- Add rectangles for back splat, rungs
Mark and Cut Accurately
Precision cutting reduces the need for alterations. Take your time and use a fabric marker to note pieces.
Sewing Steps for Perfect Slipcovers
With careful sewing, you'll have quality slipcovers. We'll outline the process but feel free to get creative with details!
- Join and finish seams
- Add dart, pleats, elastic for shape
- Fold back fabric flap, attach Velcro
- Bind edges or add trim
- Check fit then assemble
Hand Sew or Use a Machine
Either hand sewing or a sewing machine works well. Focus on straight, secure stitches and reinforced seams.
Tips for Fitting and Adding Covers
Once sewn, place slipcovers over chairs to check the fit. Here are handy tips:
- Secure flaps with Velcro
- Smooth out excess fabric
- Use fabric glue if slipping
- Adjust fit by re-sewing
Mix and Match Patterns
Customize by using different coordinating fabrics on chairs around the table. Have fun and be creative!
Caring for Your Slipcovers
One of the great benefits of slipcovers is convenient cleaning. Here's how:
- Machine wash cold, gentle cycle
- Line dry or tumble dry low
- Iron on medium if needed
- Spot treat stubborn stains first
Use Properly for Long Life
Taking slipcovers off for machine washing preserves the fabric and fit. Handle gently and promptly clean stains for maximum life of your covers.
Adding slipcovers is an easy, affordable way to protect your investment in Queen Anne dining chairs. Follow this guide to sew custom, removable covers.
You can make durable slipcovers to manage pet hair and stains with the right fabric, measurement and sewing approach.