Porch Swing Makeover
Remember this old porch swing. I inherited it last year when my parents replaced it with a new one. My husband said he would rather it be donated to the thrift… or thrown in the garbage. I, on the other hand, saw nothing but a lovely opportunity. I’ve always wanted a porch swing.
But last summer got the better of me….
And my swing, while much loved and used, did not get the makeover it needed. It spent the summer under my old quilt. This was not an ideal solution since the quilt constantly needed to be refolded and adjusted. It also got sopping wet whenever it rained and was slow to dry. But having a quilt on the swing did teach me one thing.
I loved that I could take it off and wash it.
So instead of recovering my swing like I intended…. I made a quick and easy slip cover.
It attaches with simple ties.
I used an outdoor fabric that is fade and water resistant… so it should wear well. The project was SO easy and fast. And I was able to score the fabric at almost 70% off! So even though the horizontal stripes were not my first choice, the price was just too tempting. I really love how it turned out.
My next project is to spruce up the pillows, may be with some applique. But in the mean time….
Our porch swing is our favorite spot to read a book… or talk or simply just rock and relax.
My husband had to eat crow… happily.
I do love swinging on the porch. I can’t wait to have a house where I can do that….and rock. Rocking is a must as well. :-) Your slipcover is very pretty.
I think it looks great – love the fabric!
Great job! We have a porch swing that is plain wood and needs a little something-something. I am very much a beginner in the sewing department, but this gives me inspiration. Any tips?
Wonderful job! I have one on my porch right now that could use a little love. Thanks for the inspiration to actually get on that project! :)
I’d say the pillows need a secret pocket on the back for a favorite book or ipod, naptime anyone?
Ah, light bulb moment. Our porch swing is faded and worn, so it too needs something… I never thought of sewing a slip cover. I’ll have to consider this new option.
Perfect! Good job!
Calli, that is fabulous! You really are the make-it-do queen! My porch swing cushions are very faded and ugly, but buying new ones is definitely not in the budget, so your slip cover idea is perfect! I’m a decent seamstress, but only with a pattern–I’m not much for improvising. Can you give some basic tips on the how-to? Thanks bunches!
Well that looks great! A job well done :)
We have this same swing! Our seat cover is still holding up but getting faded This idea would be so fun for a change. I kept trying to think of a way to recover it (much to much work) but never thought of this. Looks wonderful.
Thanks for the blog. Now to find some material… :)
I so have a porch swing that desperately needs a make-over. I am embarrassed when people come over…that they may see it-but it is still my fav place to relax. How did you do this? I am a no sew type. Help!
Thanks,
Kendra
Great idea and it looks great. I have a very similar swing that needs something like this too….it also needs a new shade cover on top of it to replace the old one that the sun here in FL quickly ruined. Thanks for sharing your idea and your results. Big inspiration for me.
LOVED this idea. I’ve got the same situation and spent this last summer with a throw over the worn ragged cushion. I don’t sew a lot and buying outdoor material for front back top and bottom of swing can be costly but this is ideal ! just for the top and bottom ! thanks, love your site.
Oh my word! I’ve been searching the internet for 2 years for a pattern or some instructions in making a new swing cover.. never gave it a thought of making a slip cover! I have that exact swing.. now I wish you could come up with a canopy repair! LOL
I used 2 outdoor tablecloths (bought on clearance)to slipcover my outdoor swing. Less than $10.
My porch fabric was destroyed when my husband thought it would be a good idea to use a pressure washer to “rinse” it off! The fabric quickly disintegrated and I just could not part with the swing. You’ve inspired me. Thanks so much!