Even if your patio cushions or outdoor furniture cover are in good shape, covering them with proper techniques can provide you with plenty of options to change the pattern and color for special occasions. You can cover your cushions because that off-white (solid) color fades away and gets dirty really quickly. 

• You can make the outdoor furniture cushion covers in a very easy way. If you have a DIY upholstery or slipcovered sofa, the method is the same. You can call it semi-sewing as you have a sewing machine in the mix. However, you systematically skip the regular box cushion cover that generally comes with a zipper and piping. 
• The supplies you need to make your own cushion cover are thread, fabric, measuring tape or yardstick, and scissors and straight pins. 
• You also need ribbons, depending on the 8 lengths that you cut out. It also depends on the cushion’s size.
• Measure the height, depth and width of your cushion, and the determine the amount of yardage you’ll require. 

Start the process

To make your custom patio cushion covers, you need to know the fabric dimension of each cushion panel. To figure it out, take the depth and width measurements, and adding an inch to both levels, allowing a half seam allowance. 

To determine the length of the side panel, the add the main measurements of all four sides. Again, add an inch onto the original number, allowing the same allowance. The side panel’s height is same as the cushion filing’s height. Maintain the cut on the bottom and top as per these dimensions.

Use dedicated fabric scissors for rounding the fabric corners’ edges on the other two panels. To make a continuous and strong loop around the cushion’s edge, and to connect your tedious panel strip, fold it in half. 

After sewing half inch from the edge and connecting the ends, you line them up on your side panel. 

Cleaning and waterproofing

Remove the cushions and their covers from the base. Use a proper broom for sweeping off all debris, dirt, and leaves. Check the manufacturer’s tag in compliance with the cleaning instructions. 

• Toss the removable covers and cloth in the washing machine, and let them air dry. If you cannot remove the covers, scrub the cushion’s exterior fabric. Use only a soft cleaning/scrubbing brush and use a mild detergent. 
• Take adequate care to remove any signs or stains of mildew or mold by applying white vinegar or a combination of water and bleach. Don’t forget to test a small sample of fabric first.
• The suds must undergo intensive rinsing through the hose. You need air dry the material on a sunny day. Do remember that drying the cover/fabric under the sun will disinfect it, removing all odors. 
• Storing a slightly damp or wet patio cushion is a blunder. Each section of the cushion must be dry. 
• The fabric must undergo thorough waterproofing before you store the cushions/covers. Even if your products are moisture-proof, you should still retreat them annually. 

Buy a dedicated waterproofing spray and test a proper spot before washing/treating your cushion.