Revamping Camper Cushions: A Diy Guide To Comfort And Style

how to recover camper cushions

Recovering camper cushions is a great way to give your camper a fresh new look without breaking the bank. Whether you're working with a camper in excellent shape or one that needs a little more TLC, reupholstering the cushions is a budget-friendly way to make your space feel new. This is a beginner-friendly project that can be done with or without sewing, and it's a great way to add your personal style to your camper.

Characteristics Values
Materials Fabric, plywood, staples, staple gun, spray adhesive, electric sander, baking soda, vinegar, ScotchGard, plastic wrap, drop cloth, upholstery batting, sewing machine, thread, fabric scissors, ruler, straight edge, needle-nose pliers, staple removal tool
Preparation Remove cushions from bench, measure length and width of each cushion, cut plywood to size, sand plywood, remove old cushion covers, clean cushions with baking soda and vinegar, wrap cushions in plastic wrap, cut fabric to size
Method Centre cushion on fabric, pull fabric up to meet centre of plywood, staple fabric to plywood, repeat for opposite side, fold edges and staple, trim excess fabric, add extra staples to secure fabric, steam fabric, spray with ScotchGard

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Removing old cushion covers and cleaning the cushions

To recover your camper cushions, the first step is to remove the old cushion covers and clean the cushions. This will freshen up your cushions and prepare them for their new covers. Here is a step-by-step guide:

First, turn the cushion to the back and remove the staples with a tool, such as needle-nose pliers or a staple removal tool. Carefully remove the staples to avoid damaging the cushion or the fabric. Once all the staples are removed, gently pull off the old cushion covers. If your cushions are not covered with removable fabric, you may need to cut off the old fabric. Be cautious not to damage the cushion while doing so.

After removing the covers, inspect the cushions for any stains, odours, or damage. If your cushions are in good condition, you can simply clean them and proceed to the next step. For a thorough cleaning, lay the bare cushions on a protected surface outdoors. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the cushions and let it sit for a few hours. Flip the cushions and repeat the process for the other side. The baking soda will help absorb any odours and freshen up the cushions.

Next, spray the cushions with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. This solution will help eliminate any remaining odours and stains. Allow the cushions to dry completely in the sun. This natural cleaning method is safe and effective, ensuring your cushions are refreshed and ready for their new covers.

Once the cushions are clean and dry, you can proceed to the next steps of measuring, cutting, and preparing the new fabric.

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Measuring and cutting plywood for cushion backing

To measure and cut plywood for cushion backing, start by removing the cushions from the bench. You can leave the old cushion covers on or remove them, depending on their condition. Measure the length and width of each cushion, leaving a spare 0.5 to 1 inch on each side. This will ensure that the plywood is slightly smaller than the cushion for a snug fit.

Once you have the measurements, use a circular saw to cut out rectangles from the plywood that match the size of each cushion. If there are any splinters or rough areas, use an electric sander or a hand sander to smooth them out.

Now, you'll attach the plywood to the cushion. Make sure the bottom of the cushion is facing up. Generously coat the cushion with spray adhesive and quickly centre the plywood on the cushion. Apply pressure for 30 seconds to one minute to allow the adhesive to dry. You'll know it's ready when you can pull up on the plywood and the cushion comes with it.

With the plywood securely attached, you can move on to wrapping the cushion with your fabric of choice. Centre the cushion, fabric-side down, in the middle of your fabric. Pull the fabric up to meet the centre of the plywood, ensuring it is straight, centred, and wrinkle-free. Staple the fabric to the plywood using a staple gun. Repeat this process for the opposite long edge of the cushion, pulling the fabric as tight as possible to avoid wrinkles or sagging.

Finally, fold and staple the edges just like you would when wrapping a gift. Trim off any excess fabric and add extra staples as needed to secure the fabric.

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Choosing fabric for new cushion covers

When choosing fabric for new cushion covers for your camper, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, durability is key. You'll want to select a fabric that can withstand wear and tear and potential stains, especially if your camper sees a lot of use or you plan to keep the cushions for an extended period. Canvas is a popular choice for its durability, and you can find a wide range of colours and patterns to suit your taste.

If you're looking for a more luxurious feel, washable polyester velvet is an option, but keep in mind that it may be more delicate and require careful maintenance. Faux leather is another interesting choice, but it will require heavy-duty thread and a solid sewing machine for the best results. Decor chenille is a versatile fabric that can add a cosy touch to your camper, and it comes in various colours and patterns.

When selecting a fabric, consider the ease of cleaning. If you anticipate spills or stains, opt for a fabric that is easy to clean and resistant to water and stains. Indoor/outdoor upholstery fabric is a great choice, as it is designed to withstand the elements and is typically durable and low-maintenance. You can find indoor/outdoor fabric in various styles, including solid colours and patterns, so you don't have to sacrifice style for functionality.

The colour of your fabric is also an important consideration. Lighter colours may show dirt and stains more easily, so if you're concerned about maintaining a pristine appearance, opt for darker shades or fabrics with busy patterns that can hide minor imperfections. On the other hand, if you want to brighten up your camper, a light-coloured fabric can do the trick. Just be sure to select a material that is easy to clean and treat the fabric with a stain-resistant spray for added protection.

Lastly, don't forget to consider your budget. Fabric prices can vary widely, so it's important to set a realistic budget and shop around for the best deals. Discount sections and second-hand stores can be great places to find high-quality fabric at a fraction of the original price. With a bit of creativity and flexibility, you can find the perfect fabric to give your camper cushions a stylish and durable makeover.

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Wrapping new fabric around cushions and stapling it in place

To start, you will need to gather your supplies. These include fabric of your choice, hardboard or plywood, a staple gun, and staples. It is recommended to use durable fabric that is easy to clean, such as canvas or indoor/outdoor upholstery fabric. The amount of fabric needed will depend on the size of your cushions, but make sure to get enough to wrap around the sides of the cushions to the wood backing. For the hardboard or plywood, cut it to be about one inch smaller in diameter than the cushion.

Once you have your supplies, you can begin the process of wrapping and stapling. Start by laying your fabric on a flat surface, with the nice side facing down. Place the foam cushion in the centre of the fabric, followed by the wood board on the centre of the foam. Pull the fabric over the long side of the cushion and roll it over about 3/4 inch to create a nice edge. Staple the fabric about one inch from the edge of the wooden backing, placing a staple every one inch or so. Repeat this process for the opposite side of the cushion, pulling the fabric tight before stapling.

Next, move on to the short sides of the cushion. Pull the fabric tight and staple it in place, again placing a staple every one inch or so. For the corners, flatten out one side of the fabric and fold the excess fabric to create a tidy, straight crease. Staple it in place, then fold up the fabric from the other side of the corner, tucking under the excess fabric to create a tidy straight pleat. Secure with staples as needed.

Finally, trim off any excess fabric and add any extra staples to secure the fabric. And that's it! Your camper cushions now have a fresh new look without having to sew a single stitch.

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Finishing touches: steaming and protecting the new cushion covers

Finishing Touches: steaming and protecting your new cushion covers

Now that you've put in the work to recover your camper cushions, it's time to add the finishing touches to ensure they look and feel their best. Steaming and protecting your new cushion covers will help to preserve their appearance and extend their lifespan. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:

Steaming Your Cushion Covers

Steaming is a great way to bring your cushions back to their original shape and give them a refreshed look. It is a simple process that can be done with a garment steamer or a handheld steamer. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • If you're steaming car seat cushions, it is recommended to use a bigger steamer with a bendable tube and a "fan"-style applicator for better results and to avoid spilling.
  • When steaming, it is important to protect the fabric of your cushions. Place a cloth or towel between the steamer and the cushion, especially if you're working with leather or vinyl to avoid discolouration and potential damage.
  • Steam cleaning is also an excellent way to clean your cushions, as it helps remove dirt and grime.
  • For best results, steam your cushions multiple times and do it carefully and slowly.

Protecting Your Cushion Covers

Protecting your new cushion covers will help maintain their appearance and prolong their lifespan. Here are some ways to do that:

  • Choose high-quality, durable, and easy-to-clean fabric for your cushion covers. Canvas fabric is a great option, as it is sturdy and can withstand wear and tear.
  • Invest in removable cushion covers that are machine washable, fade-resistant, mildew-resistant, and weather-resistant. This will make it easier to clean and maintain your cushions.
  • Measure your cushions accurately and select the right size cushion covers. Ill-fitting covers may not provide adequate protection and can be uncomfortable.
  • Consider using a waterproof sealant on your cushions or cushion covers to protect them from moisture and mildew, especially if they will be exposed to the outdoors.
  • Use plastic covers to protect your cushions when not in use, and store them in a dry place during prolonged periods of non-use.
  • If your cushions are exposed to direct sunlight, consider using UV-protective fabric sprays or choosing light-coloured cushion covers, as they absorb less UV rays and fade more slowly.

Frequently asked questions

You will need fabric, hardboard, plywood, staples, a staple gun, and a method to cut the plywood such as a circular saw or jigsaw.

Measure out the length of your cushion + 2 x the depth of the cushion + 4 inches. Do the same for the width. This will give you enough fabric to wrap up over the sides of the cushions to the wood backing.

Start by laying your fabric on a flat surface with the nice side facing down. Place the foam cushion in the centre of the fabric. Pull the fabric up to meet the centre of the cushion, making sure it is straight and centred with no wrinkles. Staple the fabric to the cushion with your staple gun. Repeat this process for the opposite side, pulling the fabric as tight as you can to avoid wrinkles. Lastly, fold the edges and staple the fabric to the cushion.

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