How to Make Drop Cloth Cushion Covers for Outdoor Cushions

Some of the best DIY projects start with a good deal and a little patience.

Last summer I found a set of three outdoor cushions on clearance for $15. I knew I couldn’t walk away — but the color was all wrong for my neutral, modern cozy cottage palette. So instead of passing them up or spending money on new cushion inserts, I tucked them in the attic and waited for the right moment to make them work.

That moment came in June. And drop cloth was my answer.

Why Drop Cloth?

If you’ve followed along here for a while you know I reach for drop cloth fabric often. It’s neutral, durable, washable, and costs almost nothing. For outdoor cushion covers it’s practically perfect — it holds up to weather and sun, and the natural canvas color fits right into a cozy cottage outdoor space.

I had some on hand already, which made this project even easier.

Removable or Permanent?

I decided early on to make a removable zippered cover rather than sewing it on permanently. Outdoor cushions need washing and I wasn’t willing to sacrifice function for convenience. If zippers feel intimidating, tie closures work just as well.

Before cutting anything I draped the drop cloth over the cushions to make sure the original red color wouldn’t bleed through. It covered perfectly — no need to remove the original cover. Easy route confirmed.

How to Make Drop Cloth Cushion Covers — Step by Step

1. Spread out your drop cloth and place a cushion on one end
2. Fold the fabric over the cushion — this eliminates the need for a front seam
3. Leave extra fabric on all edges for seam allowance
4. Cut the material to size
5. Pin the fabric snugly around the cushion, leaving one end open for sewing
6. Slide the pinned cover off and sew along the pinned edges, double-stitching for durability
7. Place the cover back on the cushion to check the fit
8. If the fit is good, serge the edges to prevent fraying — optional but worth it if you have a serger
9. Iron all seams flat
10. Hand-sew the opening closed or add a zipper for easy removal
11. Optional: use yarn to create tucks for a tailored look — remove before washing

That’s it! A simple, affordable way to refresh outdoor cushions without spending a fortune.

Summary:

1.  Gather your cushions that you would like to cover.

2.  Cut out your drop cloth, using your cushions as your pattern.

3.  Pin the drop cloth around the cushion, fitting snuggly.

4.  Leave one end open, so you can remove the drop cloth cover to sew.

5.  Double seam the three sides.

6.  Once sewn put back on cushion to make sure the fit is as you like.

7.  If it fits, serge edges (if you have a serger) if not don’t worry it will be fine.

8.  Iron seams flat and iron out all wrinkles.

9. You can hand sew the end closed or add a zipper closure.

10.  Use yarn to make your tucks (optional) These will have to be untied and removed when you want to wash the cover.

Cost Breakdown

• 3 outdoor cushions: $15.00
• Drop cloth material: $21.99
• Total: $36.99

Three custom neutral outdoor cushion covers for $37.00. That’s the kind of intentional DIY I love most — beautiful results without the budget stretch.