You’ve probably seen that new patio or deck chair and been tempted to buy it, only to find out that the cushions aren’t weatherproof. Well, unfortunately, this is a common mistake people make when purchasing outdoor furniture. Here are five mistakes to avoid when buying cushions for your new furniture: 1. Not considering the fabric type. Whether your cushions are made of down, polyester, cotton or any other type of fabric, be sure to choose one that will resist weathering and fading. 2. Forgetting about waterproofing. Just because a cushion is made of fabric doesn’t mean it’s water resistant. Make sure all materials used in the cushion are waterproof and resistant to tearing or fraying in harsh weather conditions. 3. Buying cheaply made cushions. While it may be tempting to purchase a budget-friendly cushion, do not let this lead you down a path of disappointment. Cheap cushions often times lack durability and may not hold up over time. 4. Not caring about the filling material. Many times, cheap filler materials like foam or feathers are used in budget-friendly cushions, which can end up causing discomfort and even
Choosing the Right Cushion
If your plan is to spend some time outdoors, it’s important to choose the right cushion for your seating. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
1. Choosing a too-soft cushion. This can be a common mistake because many of the cushions available are very soft and comfortable. However, if you’re looking for something that will provide support, a hard cushion may be better suited.
2. Not considering the type of weather you’ll be using your furniture in. If you’re going to be using your furniture in cold weather, an insulation layer may be necessary. In warm weather, choosing a thin cushion will make it more difficult to cool down on hot days.
3. Not considering how often you’ll use your furniture. If you think you’ll only use your furniture occasionally, a thin cushion may be fine. If you expect to use it more frequently or for extended periods of time, consider investing in a thicker cushion that will last longer.
Preparing the Fabric
When you’re ready to start buy outdoor black cushions online for your outdoor furniture, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Don’t assume that the fabric of your cushion will protect it from the elements. Many outdoor fabrics are treated with chemicals to make them resistant to rain and sun, but these same treatments can be harmful if they come in contact with your skin. If possible, choose cushions made of 100% cotton or another natural fiber that won’t react badly to the chemicals in the environment.
2. Be sure to test out your cushion before you buy it. Sit down on it and give it a good shake to see how stable it is in wind and rain. Make sure the filling is firm enough to support your weight, but not so hard that it will get uncomfortable after a few hours sitting down.
3. Think about how often you’ll use your cushion and what kind of weather you’re expecting. For example, if you live in an area where storms are common, choose a cushion that’s waterproof and resistant to water damage. Or if you only plan on using your cushion during warm weather months, choose a fabric that’s breathable so you don’t get too hot or sweaty while sitting down.
4. Decide whether you want durability or comfort when choosing your cushions. Durable cushions last longer but may be less comfortable than softer options in the short term. Comfort-focused cushions tend to be more affordable.
Sewing the Cushion
If you’re thinking of sewing cushions for your outdoor furniture, there are a few things you need to know first. Here are five mistakes to avoid when sewing cushions for your patio or deck:
1. Choosing the wrong fabric.
Fabrics that are water resistant and durable are perfect for outdoor use, but they won’t be as comfortable as fabrics that are more delicate. Avoid using cotton fabric if you can; it’s not as water resistant and will become heavy and hot in the summer sun.
2. Failing to pre-stretch the fabric before sewing.
Pre-stretching fabric will give it a little extra stretch so it’ll conform better to the shape of the cushion and be less likely to form wrinkles or tears during laundering. You can do this by placing the fabric on a flat surface and pulling it taut before cutting it out.
3. Sewing too close to the edges of the cushion.
When sewn together, edge stitching should be just shy of the raw edge of both fabrics so there’s room for them to fray over time naturally. If you’re not sure how far away from the edge to stitch, look for a seam allowance guide on the pattern or online instructions.
4. Not tensioning your seams properly.
Tensioning seams properly will keep them flexible and prevent them from splitting or bubbling during use – two common problems with poorly sewn cushions
Trimming and Folding the Cushion
When you’re ready to add some cushioning to your outdoor furniture, don’t forget the basics: trimming and folding. Trimming means removing excess fabric. Fold it in half so that the selvage is on the inside of the fold. Now press down evenly on each side of the crease, forming anice, even edge. Repeat on the other side. Don’t worry about getting all of the wrinkles out; they’ll disappear after being outside for a while.
If you want something a little more structured than a cushion, consider an ottoman or footstool. To make one, cut two pieces of fabric that are at least twice as long as your stool’s width plus an inch or two extra on each end. First, fold one piece in half along its longest axis and press down firmly to create a crease. Then unfold it and do the same thing with the other piece. Pin them together along their folded edges and sew them together using straight stitches only (don’t zigzag). Cut away any excess fabric and fluff up the pillows before attaching them to your chair or Ottoman using rustproof screws or brackets (or use zip ties).
Picking the Right Finish
When picking the right finish for your new outdoor furniture cushions, it’s important to avoid some common mistakes.
The first mistake is choosing a finish that is too durable. The cushions will only last as long as the material they are made from. A more common mistake is choosing a finish that is not weather-resistant. This means that the cushions will not hold up in harsher weather conditions and will need to be replaced sooner.
The best option for an outdoor furniture cushion is a water-resistant finish. This means that the cushion will be able to withstand rain and snow, but may need to be replaced after heavy rain or snowfall.
Putting it All Together
If you’re looking to add a bit of warmth and comfort to your outdoor furniture, consider purchasing cushions. However, before you buy, be sure to avoid these three common mistakes:
1. Not Considering Size and Shape
When choosing cushions for your furniture, it’s important to take into account both their size and shape. For example, an oversized cushion will only make the furniture seem larger and may not provide the desired comfort. Conversely, a small cushion that is too narrow or short will not be comfortable or supportive.
2. Buying Cheap Cushions
When it comes to budgeting for cushions, don’t fall victim to cheap prices just because they are cushions. Cheap fabrics and materials may not last as long as higher-quality options, which can mean discomfort sooner rather than later. Instead, invest in quality cushions that will last for years without needing replacement.
3. Not Considering the Weather Conditions
Before buying your cushions, be sure to factor in the weather conditions in which they will be used. For example, if you live in a hot climate, a thick cushion may not be necessary; instead, consider opting for a thin layer of protection that can heat up quickly when temps rise above normal levels. Similarly, if you know that your furniture will likely be used in cold weather conditions (below 40 degrees Fahrenheit), choose a thicker cushion that can keep you more warm on those chilly
Place outdoor furniture out of the line of fire
Place outdoor furniture away from the line of fire. Outdoor furniture may be placed in any spot that is not within reach of a fire. If you live in an area prone to wildfires, choose furniture with flame-resistant materials.
When choosing outdoor furniture, think about how windy it will be and where the weather will take your furniture. Keep in mind that patio umbrellas can act as projectiles and should not be positioned near chairs or tables. When possible, place low-hanging plants around outdoor furniture to help keep it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
