Rejuvenate Your Queen Anne Chairs with Easy DIY Slipcovers
Queen Anne style chairs are known for their elegance - the graceful cabriole legs, soft padded seats, and striking high arched backs marked by a decorative center splat. But over time, the fabric upholstery on Queen Anne chairs can start to wear and fade. The chairs may look drab and in need of an update.
Rather than replacing your Queen Anne dining set altogether, consider renewing it with the help of DIY slipcovers. Custom-made slipcovers are a budget-friendly way to rejuvenate your chairs and give your dining room a fresh new look.
Prepare for the Project
Before you start sewing, take some time to get organized. Proper preparation will ensure your slipcover project goes smoothly.
Choose Your Fabric
Picking the right fabric is an important first step. Medium weight cottons and cotton/linen blends are recommended for slipcovers as they have good durability and structure. Make sure to pre-wash your fabric before sewing so it can shrink properly.
Opt for solids or small scale prints to nicely fit the vintage style of a Queen Anne chair. Consider fibers like cotton duck, twill, or chambray that will hold up well to daily use.
Take Measurements
Precision is key for a good fitting slipcover. Carefully measure each part of the chair: height, width, length and depth of the back, seat depth and length, and arm width.
Record each dimension. These numbers will be your guide when cutting out the fabric. Add at least 1/2" for seam allowances and ease.
Cut Out the Pieces
Using your measurements, cut out the slipcover pieces from fabric. You'll need a main panel for the body, side and arm panels, and corner squares to cover the front legs. Add several inches to the chair's dimensions when cutting for a looser fit.
Construct the Slipcover
Now it's time to sew the slipcover pieces together to create a custom cover for your Queen Anne chair.
Sew the Main Panel
Join the cut fabric with 1/2" seam allowances to form the main slipcover panel. Leave an opening at the center back - this is where you'll attach Velcro later.
Attach Side Panels
Pin the side and arm panels to the main piece. Ease and gather the fabric so it fits snugly over the chair arms. Sew into place, remembering to enclose the front corner squares.
Add Velcro Fasteners
Sew one side of the Velcro to the center back opening overlap. Attach the other side to the inside back edge. The Velcro allows the slipcover to easily be wrapped around the chair and secured.
Slip the cover over the chair and check the fit. Make any adjustments needed to tighten or loosen as desired.
Customize with Trims
Add your own special touch by embellishing the slipcovers with decorative trims. Ribbons or gimp can be applied to the bottom edge or used as ties at the arms and back.
Welting cord gives a nice accent to the seams. Nailhead trim offers a tailored detail. Have fun and get creative with trims!
Care and Maintenance
One advantage of slipcovers is that they can easily be removed for cleaning. Check for stains and launder as needed to keep them fresh.
Be sure to check the Velcro fasteners periodically and re-attach if they loosen up. Also watch for signs of wear and repair as necessary.
With some careful measuring, simple sewing, and creative choices of fabric and trim, you can completely transform the look of worn Queen Anne chairs.
Slipcovers offer an easy and affordable way to rejuvenate your vintage dining set. No need for expensive reupholstering or replacement pieces. Just customize covers that infuse your Queen Anne style with renewed life and beauty.