Make floor cushions by sewing simple fabric shells and stuffing them with foam or batting.
I have sewed dozens of home items and guided friends through projects. This guide on How to make floor cushions shows clear steps, smart tips, and design ideas. You will learn materials, cutting, sewing, stuffing, and care. Read on to make cozy, durable floor cushions that match your home.
Why make your own floor cushions?
Making your own floor cushions saves money and gives full control of style and size. How to make floor cushions lets you pick fabric, fill, and firmness. I prefer DIY cushions because they last longer and fit my room. Expect a fun project that rewards simple skills and patience.
Materials and tools needed for How to make floor cushions
Gather good materials and basic tools before you start. How to make floor cushions is easier if you set up a clean workspace.
- Fabric: upholstery cotton, canvas, denim, or linen for outer shell. Pick a durable weave for high-traffic use.
- Lining fabric: light cotton or muslin for inner bag if you want a removable cover. This helps keep fill clean.
- Fill options: upholstery foam, shredded foam, polyester batting, or a mix for shape and softness. Firm foam holds shape; batting makes it plush.
- Thread: heavy-duty polyester thread for seams. It avoids breakage under stress.
- Tools: sewing machine, scissors, measuring tape, pins, zipper or buttons, chalk, and a safety needle for hand stitching. A rotary cutter and mat speed up cutting.
- Optional: piping cord, tufting buttons, fabric glue, and snap fasteners for extra finish.
Step-by-step process: How to make floor cushions
Follow clear steps to ensure neat results. How to make floor cushions breaks down into cutting, sewing, stuffing, and finishing.
- Plan size and shape.
- Choose square, round, or rectangular. Standard sizes: 18–24 inches for seats, 30–36 inches for large floor cushions.
- Cut fabric.
- Add 1/2 inch seam allowance. For removable covers, cut two outer pieces and one inner lining.
- Sew seams.
- Pin pieces right sides together. Sew three sides, leaving one side open for stuffing. Use a 3/8–1/2 inch seam.
- Make a lining or inner bag.
- Sew a simple inner bag if using loose fill. This keeps fill from shifting and makes it easier to wash the cover.
- Insert fill.
- Add foam or batting through the open side. For shredded fill, stuff in small batches to get even loft.
- Close and finish.
- Sew the final seam by machine or hand stitch. For removable covers, install a zipper or use buttons.
I once used only batting and found the cushion flattened too fast. I switched to a foam core with a batting wrap, and the cushions stayed bouncy much longer. That lesson shaped my current method.
Measurements and sizing guide for How to make floor cushions
Good sizing makes floor cushions comfortable and useful. How to make floor cushions uses simple math and standard measures.
- Small seat cushion: 16–18 inches square, 3–4 inches thick for low stools.
- Standard floor cushion: 24 inches square, 4–6 inches thick for sitting on the floor.
- Large lounge cushion: 30–36 inches square, 6–8 inches thick for lounging or two people.
- Round cushions: cut two circles plus seam allowance. Use same depth as square cushions.
Measure twice. Cut once. That keeps fabric waste low and fit right.
Design ideas and fabric choices when you make floor cushions
Design affects look and life span. How to make floor cushions gives many options for style and care.
- Patterns and solids: use bold prints for casual rooms and solids for calm spaces.
- Durable fabric: choose canvas or upholstery-grade fabric in playrooms and high-use areas.
- Removable covers: make zippered covers so you can wash them easily.
- Piping and tufting: add piping for a tailored edge or tufting for a classic look.
- Layered fill: combine a foam inner core with a batting wrap to get support and softness.
I like linen covers for living rooms and canvas for kids’ rooms. Test a fabric scrap in a small area to see how it wears.
Care and maintenance for How to make floor cushions
Simple care extends cushion life. How to make floor cushions includes choices that make washing easy.
- Removable covers: unzip and machine wash on gentle cycle. Air dry to avoid shrinkage.
- Spot clean: treat spills promptly with mild detergent and water. Blot, don’t rub.
- Fluff and rotate: flip cushions weekly to keep even wear and loft.
- Storage: keep cushions in a dry, cool spot when not in use to prevent mildew and fading.
I learned to add a washable lining after a coffee spill ruined an unlined cushion. That small step saved me time and money.
Troubleshooting and common mistakes when learning How to make floor cushions
Expect small errors and fix them fast. How to make floor cushions goes smoother with a few avoidance tips.
- Mistake: seams that are too small. Fix: use at least 3/8 inch seam allowance for strength.
- Mistake: using thin fabric for heavy use. Fix: choose stronger fabric or add a second layer.
- Mistake: overstuffing. Fix: leave some give so cushions stay comfy.
- Mistake: no inner bag for loose fill. Fix: sew a simple inner bag to contain fill.
If your cushion sags, add a thin foam layer or re-stuff with denser material. These fixes are quick and cheap.
Frequently Asked Questions of How to make floor cushions
What is the best fill for floor cushions?
Foam is best for long-term shape and support, while polyester batting is softer and plush. A foam core wrapped in batting gives the best of both.
Can I make removable covers for floor cushions?
Yes. Sew a cover with a zipper or buttons so you can wash it. Use a hidden zipper for a cleaner look.
How thick should floor cushions be?
Aim for 4–6 inches for standard cushions and 6–8 inches for lounge-style cushions. Thickness depends on how you plan to sit or lie on them.
Is special fabric needed for kids’ floor cushions?
Choose durable, washable fabric like canvas or upholstery-grade cotton. Water-resistant treatments help with spills.
How long does it take to make floor cushions?
A simple cushion with a removable cover takes 1–3 hours for an average sewist. More complex designs like tufting add time.
Conclusion
Making floor cushions is a rewarding craft that brings comfort and style to your home. How to make floor cushions covers planning, materials, sewing, and care so you can finish strong. Start with one simple cushion and try new fabrics or fills as you gain skill. Make your first cushion this weekend, share a photo, or ask a question to learn more.
Daniel Hart is a consumer product analyst who specializes in mattress technology, smart bedding, and home comfort innovation. Before joining Royal Comport, Daniel worked with several e-commerce research teams, testing and comparing sleep products for quality, value, and long-term performance. He brings data-driven insight and real-world testing to every review he writes.
