How to Make Camper Cushions

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Whether due to wear and tear, age or the desire for an updated style, sometimes camper cushions require replacing. New camper cushions can be expensive, especially if they are not a standard size. Custom-made cushions are then required. By fashioning the cushions yourself, you can save money and create your own style through the cushion's fabric. If you can measure, cut and sew, you will be able to create new camper cushions in a relatively short amount of time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Measuring tape
Chalk
Pen
Foam rubber
Utility knife
Scissors
Knife
Pins
Sewing machine
Thread
Needle

Step 1

Measure the length and width of the area for the cushion. If you have the old cushion, measure its width, length and thickness. You can purchase foam rubber in a variety of thicknesses, suiting your personal preference. Most sewing or craft stores sell foam rubber.

Step 2

Mark the foam rubber to the measurements taken with colored chalk or a pen. This will give you a guiding line when cutting out the piece of foam so it remains the correct size. Cut out the cushion pattern using a sharp utility knife, large scissors or knife, trying to cut the edges as straight and clean as possible.

Step 3

Measure the thickness of the cushion, double the number and add 1 inch. Add this number to the length and width measurements to get the correct dimensions for making cushion covers. For example, if the cushion is 24-inches wide and long and 4-inches thick, double the thickness, making it 8 inches, and then add 1 inch for seam allowances, making it 9 inches. Add that to the length and width, ending with a panel 33 inches long by 33 inches wide.

Step 4

Lay a doubled piece of fabric out on a flat surface and measure and mark the length and width. Pin the fabric together along the marks and cut out the cushion panel.

Step 5

Turn the fabric panels, right sides facing each other, and pin three sides together. Allow one side to remain open, so the foam cushion will fit inside when done.

Step 6

Sew a 1/2-inch seam around the three sides and turn the cushion cover right-side out. Slip the foam cushion insert into the fabric covering. Fold the opened seam toward the inside, overlapping one seam edge over the other to end up with a clean edge. Pin the seam together.

Step 7

Thread a needle and hand stitch the remaining seam closed, making small one-quarter inch stitches to hold the seam firmly together. Double stitch the beginning and ending stitch to hold the thread in place.

Tips & Warnings

Upholstery fabric is thicker and endures wear and tear better than thinner, dressmaking fabrics.

Some outdoor upholstery fabrics are water and stain repellent.

Article Written By Joyce Starr

Joyce Starr is a professional writer from Florida and owns a landscaping company and garden center. She has published articles about camping in Florida, lawn care and gardening and writes for a local gardening newsletter. She shares her love and knowledge of the outdoors and nature through her writing.

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