3 Easy Steps to Making a Squab Cushion

Squab cushions originated hundreds of years ago. They were initially used to protect expensive, hand-carved, caned seats, but over the years have evolved to become what we now refer to as the box cushion. Basically, its just a thick, soft cushion used on a chair, couch or sofa where more depth is required. These cushions are not permanently attached to their host, but on occasion they may have ties along the back edge for securing purposes. Making a squab cushion can be done in three fairly simple steps. First, pick out your color or pattern, then measure and cut, and finally sew it together.

1. Picking out the material can be as easy as you make it. Take a moment to ask yourself if you want to coordinate with whats already there, or if a contrasting fabric would look better. Squab cushions can be made of any color, design or pattern of cloth that you choose. The options are limitless, however, you should keep in mind that, if this cushion is going to be used on a piece of furniture thats going to experience a high amount of traffic, it would be wise to pick out material that is durable, washable and, if possible, stain resistant. Nothing would be worse then to spend all this time personalizing your cushions only have them ruined by something that could have been prevented.

2. Start by measuring the length and width of the foam pad youre going to be using. Then measure the depth of the pad. Cut two pieces of fabric that measure the length by depth and two pieces that measure the width by depth. Dont forget to add half an inch to all your measurement before you start cutting to be certain that youll have enough room for the seams. Take extra care with your dimensions, one small mistake can be the difference between a beautifully crafted masterpiece and a disaster that will send you running to your nearest discount store to purchase whatevers on hand.

3. Finally, once youve got all your cuts and measurements finalized, its time to put it all together. Join all the pieces together to form a ring with the side of the material you want to see on the inside facing each other. Then sew three of the four sides together leaving one open for you to insert the foam pad. Turn the material right-side-out and carefully slide the pad in. It should fit snuggly into the pocket youve just made, causing the material to pull taught against it. Now for the hard part, you must hand sew the last side of the cushion cover to confine the foam.

Congratulations! Youve just made youre very own squab cushion. Even though they have been around for centuries, squab cushions are still designed simply to offer its users a deep, supple cushion to make wherever theyre sitting a bit more comfy. While theyre name seems to have changed over time, thankfully their ability to help you relax has not. Keep in mind that these types of cushions can also be used to add style and comfort to window seats as well.

Joanne is an author of Decorz.com. If you're looking for more cushions ideas for your home visit http://www.decorz.com.

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