Diy Camper Cushions: Crafting Comfort For Your Adventures

how to make new cushion for camper

Camper cushions can degrade over time due to sunlight exposure, stains, and wear and tear. Replacing them can be a great way to improve the comfort and style of your camper. In this article, we will discuss the process of making new cushions for your camper, from measuring and selecting materials to sewing and installation. We will also explore the option of reupholstering your existing cushions for a quick and easy makeover. Whether you choose to sew your own cushions or opt for a no-sew method, giving your camper cushions an upgrade can be a rewarding project that adds comfort and value to your home on wheels.

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Measure the cushions and cut the fabric accordingly

When making new cushions for a camper, it is important to measure accurately to ensure a snug fit. The first step is to measure the width, length, and thickness of the existing cushions. It is recommended to leave the foam in the cushions and to measure from seam to seam. This will help determine the size of the new cushions and ensure a perfect fit.

If you are creating a cushion cover, it is important to purchase additional fabric for adjustments. You will also want the fabric to wrap over the sides of the cushion to the board at the back. You can use a yardage calculator to identify the exact cut of fabric you need. Alternatively, measure the board dimension and add about 10-12 inches, depending on your desired overlap.

For example, if the perimeter of the board is 144 inches, adding 10 inches for overlap makes 154. Dividing this by 36 will give you the number of yards needed, which in this case, is 4 yards. It is always better to have a little extra fabric than to be short, so consider adding a few extra inches to your calculations.

When cutting the fabric, it is important to cut and sew the pieces slightly smaller than the size of the foam. This ensures that the fabric is tight on the cushions and prevents wrinkles. For example, if your foam dimensions are 23 3/4 x 17 x 4 inches, you would cut the fabric to 23 1/4 x 16 1/2 x 3 1/2 inches. This allows for a 1/2 inch seam allowance on each side.

If you are adding a zipper to the cushion cover, you will need to adjust the fabric dimensions accordingly. The zipper should be placed on one side of the cushion, not at the end, so it is hidden at the back. You will also need to leave enough fabric at the end of the zipper to allow for easy opening and closing.

Accurate measuring and cutting of the fabric is crucial to achieving a well-fitting and aesthetically pleasing cushion for your camper.

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Choose the right fabric for your cushions

Choosing the right fabric for your camper cushions is essential to ensure comfort, durability, and ease of maintenance. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the perfect fabric for your camper cushions:

Durability and Longevity:

Look for fabrics that are sturdy and built to last. Camper cushions endure frequent use, so the fabric should be durable enough to withstand wear and tear. Consider fabrics with high durability and a good wear rating, such as vinyl and faux leather, which offer incredibly high abrasion and wear resistance.

Ease of Cleaning:

Opt for fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain. Camper cushions are prone to spills, stains, and dirt from outdoor adventures. Choose fabrics that are stain-resistant, water-resistant, or bleach-cleanable. This will make it easier to wipe off any messes or clean the cushions with a mild solution.

UV and Fade Resistance:

If your camper is often exposed to sunlight, choose a fabric that is UV and fade-resistant. This will prevent the fabric from deteriorating, fading, or becoming brittle over time due to sun exposure. Sunbrella® fabrics, for example, are known for their excellent fade resistance and durability.

Comfort:

While durability is essential, don't compromise on comfort. Look for fabrics with a soft hand and a pleasing appearance. You want your cushions to be inviting and comfortable to sit on. Some fabrics, like vinyl, may be durable but lack comfort for seating over extended periods.

Breathability and Climate Considerations:

Think about the different climates your camper will be exposed to. Some fabrics are more suitable for warm climates, while others are better for cooler temperatures. If your camper experiences seasonal weather changes, consider climate-control fabrics like Ultraleather®, which stays cool in warm weather and resists stiffening in colder climates.

Style and Design:

Lastly, consider the style and design of your camper's interior. Choose a fabric colour and pattern that complements your aesthetic preferences and the overall design of your camper. You can opt for solid colours or add pops of colour and pattern with coordinating pillows and decorative accents.

Some popular fabric options for camper cushions include Sunbrella® fabrics, Crypton®, Outdura®, vinyl, faux leather, and ultra-leather. You can also explore budget-friendly options like canvas drop sheets, thrift store finds, or stores like Joann Fabrics for deals on upholstery material.

Remember to measure your cushions accurately and purchase slightly more fabric than you need to allow for adjustments and a perfect fit.

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Prepare the materials needed

The materials you will need depend on the type of cushion you want to make and the level of expertise of the person making the cushions. If you are a beginner, you may want to opt for a no-sew method, which will require the following materials:

  • Staples and a staple gun
  • Cushions (optional)
  • Spray adhesive (optional)
  • Hard backing for the back of your cushions to keep their form, such as a white hardboard sheet that is 1/8 inch thick
  • Foam inserts – you can use your existing ones if they are still in good shape, or purchase new high-density foam cushion sheets
  • Loft batting for softer cushions
  • Fabric – you will need enough to wrap over the sides of the cushions to the board at the back. Consider using a yardage calculator to identify the exact cut of fabric needed, or measure the board dimension and add about 10-12 inches for the desired overlap. Choose a fabric that is long-lasting and easy to clean, such as ultra-leather, midweight denim, or microsuede.

If you have sewing experience, you may want to opt for a more complex project that involves sewing cushion covers. In addition to the materials listed above, you will also need:

  • Sewing tools, such as a sewing machine, small ruler, long measuring tape, white pencil, iron, and ironing board
  • Zippers – preferably in a dark grey colour to match the fabric
  • Cotton and polyester fabric – enough to cover the top and bottom of each cushion, as well as the sides.

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Sew the cushion fabric together

The first step in sewing the cushion fabric together is to cut the fabric according to the desired cushion size. For each cushion, cut two pieces of fabric for the top and bottom, and one long band that will wrap around the sides and connect the top and bottom pieces. It is important to cut the pieces slightly smaller than the size of the foam to ensure a tight fit and prevent wrinkles. Leave an extra 1/2 inch on each side for the seam.

For a small cushion with dimensions of 23 3/4 x 17 x 4 inches, cut the following pieces:

  • 2 pieces of 24 1/4 x 17 1/2 inches (top and bottom)
  • 1 piece of 59 1/4 x 4 1/2 inches (long band)
  • 2 pieces of 24 1/4 x 2 3/4 inches (for the sides around the zipper)

For a medium-sized cushion with dimensions of 48 x 17 x 4 inches, cut the following pieces:

  • 2 pieces of 48 1/2 x 17 1/2 inches (top and bottom)
  • 1 piece of 48 1/2 x 4 1/2 inches (long band)
  • 2 pieces of 48 1/2 x 2 3/4 inches (for the sides around the zipper)
  • 2 pieces of 17 1/2 x 4 1/2 inches (additional band pieces)

For a large cushion with dimensions of 68 1/2 x 24 x 4 inches, cut the following pieces:

  • 2 pieces of 69 x 24 1/2 inches (top and bottom)
  • 1 piece of 69 x 4 1/2 inches (long band)
  • 2 pieces of 69 x 2 3/4 inches (for the sides around the zipper)
  • 2 pieces of 24 1/2 x 4 1/2 inches (additional band pieces)

Once the fabric is cut, it's time to sew the pieces together. Start by sewing the zipper onto the side band of each cushion. Position the zipper about 1 inch from the edge of the cushion, and sew both sides of the zipper in place. If your zipper is longer than the cushion, you can leave the excess fabric hanging off the edge for now.

Next, sew the pieces of the long band together to create one continuous piece that will wrap around the sides of the cushion. For the medium and large cushions, you may need to use multiple pieces to create the band, as it needs to be long enough to go around the entire cushion.

Now, sew the side band to the bottom piece of the cushion. Start with the side that has the zipper, ensuring it is positioned correctly. Sew along the edge until you reach the corner, then turn the fabric 90 degrees and continue sewing the next side. Repeat this process until you have sewn all four sides of the cushion.

Finally, sew the top piece of the cushion in place, ensuring that all the dimensions line up correctly. It may be helpful to pin each side first to ensure a precise fit. And that's it! You now have a custom-made cushion for your camper. Repeat these steps for as many cushions as you need.

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Install the new cushions

Now that you've crafted your new cushions, it's time to install them and give your camper a fresh new look and feel. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare the Cushions

Before you begin, ensure that your new cushions are ready to be installed. If you've created cushion covers, carefully insert the foam into the covers. It's a bit tricky due to the snug fit, but with patience and gentle adjustments, you can do it. For larger cushions, you might need an extra pair of hands to help guide the foam into the cover smoothly. Make sure the foam is evenly distributed within the cover, and check that the seams of the cover align with the edges of the foam.

Step 2: Place the Cushions

Once your new cushions are ready, it's time to place them in your camper. If your cushions have a specific orientation, such as a zipper or pattern, ensure they are facing the correct way. Carefully position the cushions on the intended seating areas, ensuring they fit snugly and securely. If your camper has velcro or ties to hold the cushions in place, secure them accordingly.

Step 3: Secure with Screws or Nails

To ensure your new cushions stay put, you'll need to secure them in place. Using the screws or nails that you removed earlier, attach the cushions to the camper's frame. Make sure to use the appropriate fasteners for your specific camper model. You might need to drill new holes if the alignment doesn't match up perfectly. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this could damage the cushions or the frame.

Step 4: Adjust and Fine-Tune

After installing the cushions, take a step back and inspect your work. Ensure that the cushions are evenly placed and aligned correctly. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure a neat and tidy finish. If you're using cushion covers, smooth out any wrinkles or creases, and ensure the covers fit snugly. Check that any zippers or fasteners are concealed and not visible.

Step 5: Test and Enjoy

Finally, test out your new cushions! Sit, lounge, and relax on them to ensure they provide the desired comfort and support. Enjoy the refreshed look and feel of your camper's interior, knowing that you accomplished this transformation with your own hands. Your handmade cushions will surely enhance your camping experiences and create lasting memories.

Frequently asked questions

You can make no-sew cushions for your camper by using a staple gun and staples. First, prepare your materials: you will need a hard backing for your cushions, such as a hardboard sheet, and you can purchase new cushions or use your existing foam inserts if they are still in good shape. Next, measure your fabric, cut it to size, and choose a fabric that is long-lasting and easy to clean. Remove the old cushions from the bench, then cut the board to fit the cushions. Finally, staple the fabric to the board and secure the corners.

To make new cushions for your camper, you will need fabric, foam or batting for padding, zippers, a self-healing mat, a ruler, a sharpie, a stapler or staple gun, scissors, and spray adhesive.

To measure the fabric for your new camper cushions, first determine the original dimensions of the cushion. Then, use a yardage calculator to identify the exact cut of fabric you need, or measure the board dimension and add about 10-12 inches, depending on your desired overlap. Finally, convert the fabric size from inches to yards by dividing it by 36.

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