How to Make a Bean Bag Chair: 13 Steps
Step 1: Choose the Fabric
Select a durable and comfortable fabric for your bean bag chair. Upholstery fabric, canvas, and corduroy are popular choices. Consider the texture, color, and pattern that best suit your style and needs.
Step 2: Determine the Size
Decide on the dimensions of your bean bag chair. Measure the desired width and height, considering how much floor space you have available and who will be using the chair.
Step 3: Create a Pattern
Draw a pattern for your bean bag chair on large pieces of paper or cardboard. Most bean bag chairs are composed of two round or oval pieces connected by a long rectangle for the sides.
Step 4: Cut the Fabric
Place your pattern on the fabric, ensuring it lies flat and even. Pin the pattern in place and carefully cut out the pieces with sharp fabric scissors.
Step 5: Sew the Side Panel
Sew the two short ends of the rectangular side panel together, creating a loop with right sides facing each other. Use a straight stitch with a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
Step 6: Sewing the Top Piece
Align and pin one of the round or oval pieces to the top edge of the side panel with right sides facing. Carefully sew around the circumference using a 1/2-inch seam allowance
Step 7: Sewing the Bottom Piece
Repeat step 6 for attaching the other round or oval piece to the bottom edge of the side panel. Remember to leave an opening (approximately 10 inches) for filling.
Step 8: Turn Inside Out
Turn your bean bag chair right side out through the opening you left in step 7.
Step 9: Adding Inner Lining
For added durability, create an inner lining using similar steps to create your bean bag cover. Use lightweight fabric and ensure the dimensions match the outer cover. Fill this lining with beans instead of putting them directly into the cover.
Step 10: Filling Bean Bag Chair
Fill your bean bag chair with polystyrene beads or another suitable filling material. Fill it to a level that provides optimal comfort; this may take some trial and error.
Step 11: Close the Lining
Once you’re satisfied with the filling, close the opening in the inner lining by sewing it shut with a straight stitch. If using a zipper, make sure it’s closed securely
Step 12: Insert Lining into Cover
Place the filled lining inside the empty cover, ensuring that it fits snugly and is even on all sides.
Step 13: Finishing Touches
Sew or zip closed the opening left on the outer cover. For added security, you can add heavy-duty Velcro along the opening before sewing it shut.
Congratulations! You have successfully made a bean bag chair in just 13 steps. Now sit back and relax in your new, comfortable creation.