To the sofa was protected from external factors and had an exclusive appearance, many housewives turn to the help of covers. As a rule, the armrests are especially affected - they are supported by hands, put cups on, and other things are laid, so the selection of separate covers for the armrests requires a special approach. Get to know this textile product a bit closer.
What are they?
This thing can not be found in the store so often. Basically, covers for sofa armrests can be classified by type of mount.
- On an elastic band. Such a product reliably fixes the fabric and prevents it from slipping. A simple, convenient and stable instance, but not suitable for every type of armrest.
- On a flypaper or on the lock. Such a sample is worn on the inside of the armrest without fasteners, because, as a rule, it is made clearly in shape, and on the outside it is fastened with Velcro or a miniature lock that is not visually visible.
- Eurocover. It can be sewn for the armrest of any size and shape. Basically, the product is made of fabric on a rubberized basis of natural or cotton fiber with the addition of acrylic, polyester, elastane.
- Cape A universal option for those who want to maintain the quality of the sofa cover in the armrest area, but do not want to spend time buying and sewing covers. To cover the armrests, it is recommended to use heavy dense fabric.
- Customized. The best option when buying is to order a case for individual sizes. In this case, the covers will harmoniously fit the armrests, will not wrinkle and crease, the hostess will be able to easily and quickly remove the laundry product and put it back on.
Materials and colors
Most often, synthetic raw materials are used for sewing. Artificial fibers give the fabric elasticity and strength, and this is very important for the manufacture of products of non-standard shapes. In addition, such fabrics are usually quite resistant to dirt and have increased strength. There are pluses in natural materials, for example, such a fabric breathes, does not cause allergies, gives a pleasant tactile sensation.
Whichever option is chosen for sewing, consider the features of further care. It is best to wash the covers in the “delicate” washing mode. Before putting a copy in the washing machine, turn it inside out. Remember that these covers quickly get dirty, the material must withstand numerous treatments, however, synthetic fabrics fade faster with frequent washing.
Anti-vandal fabrics deserve special attention. Most often they are chosen by the owners of cats. Animal lovers know that the cat’s favorite spot on the couch is the armrest. It is convenient to lie on it, and sometimes sharpen claws. Covers from anti-vandal materials just cope with this task.
They have increased strength and density, and the hooks are invisible due to the resistance to thread pulling and tearing. Such a fabric does not wipe or wear out for a long time, as it is impregnated with a Teflon coating or adhesive tape. This protective impregnation prevents the absorption of moisture and fat and passes air well. The sliding effect prevents the cat from damaging the surface of the armrest with claws.
Anti-vandal materials are non-woven and woven. The first category includes flock, relaxation, artificial suede, and the second group includes chenille, microfiber, jacquard, tapestry. The first option has a longer service life, is well erased, pleasant to the touch, so it is more popular when sewing covers on the armrests.
Separately, it is worth mentioning about the possible colors of the covers. Choosing a shade, be guided by the general color scale of a room interior. Armrests should be made in the tone of decoration and decorative details. If children and animals live in the house, then give preference to dark covers or products with a pattern.
Most often, covers for armrests are sewn from the material to the tone of the main upholstery, but connoisseurs of everything new and modern can try to sew covers on the armrests of a contrasting color. For example, a black sofa with white armrests will look beautiful, and in the interior of the eco-style you can choose covers of a beige or brown shade for a green sofa.
How to sew?
If a beginner is involved in the product, it is better to choose a cotton fabric - it is more convenient to sew from it, moreover, this material is well washed. After choosing the right material for sewing, wash, dry and iron to avoid shrinkage of the finished product. Now you can start the process. Prepare:
- tape centimeter;
- threads
- needles;
- tailor pins;
- scissors;
- chalk or soap;
- sewing machine.
Take measurements first. Perform them as if the armrests are clearly rectangular in order to avoid significant miscalculations. Record the data obtained and add 3 cm to each parameter - these will be allowances for the seams. Further sewing is as follows.
- Put marks on a cloth according to measurements. Remember about allowances.
- Cut out the details. In total, 4 elements for each cover should be obtained - 2 lateral rectangles, 1 top and 1 end. If the handles have a slightly rounded shape, then the last element can be made rounded, and two side and top parts can be cut out in one piece.
- Sweep or carefully pin all parts.
- Turn the resulting sample to the outside and put it on the armrest. Correct the shape if necessary. If the cover sits well, then connect the parts using a sewing machine.
- Remove excess threads and fibers, make sure that the seams are made firmly and securely.
- If you wish, decorate the finished product with decorative details and put on the armrest.
- Follow the same steps for the second armrest.
Workshop on sewing the armrest on the sofa, see below.
