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If your dining chairs are starting to look a little tired, but reupholstering feels like too much work (or expense), don’t worry ,you don’t need to be a professional upholsterer or have a sewing machine to refresh your space. With just a few pillowcases and a little creativity, you can give your old dining chairs a brand new look. This quick and affordable DIY project is perfect for renters, budget decorators, and anyone who wants a fast way to update their home.
Here’s how to make simple slipcovers using a pillow case for dining room chairs and give your dining room an instant refresh without breaking the bank.
Why Pillowcases Work So Well for Chair Covers
Pillowcases are a hidden gem in the world of no-sew home decor. Designed to fit snugly around a pillow, they also just so happen to be the perfect width for many high-back dining chairs. Standard pillowcases typically measure about 20 by 26 inches, which is a surprisingly good fit for most chair backs and cushions. All it takes is a bit of adjusting and a few styling touches to turn them into stylish slipcovers.
What makes this trick so appealing is its simplicity. You can use plain pillowcases for a minimalist aesthetic or go bold with patterns, colors, or even seasonal prints. Whether you’re prepping for a dinner party, updating your everyday dining setup, or creating a cohesive theme for a special event, this method is incredibly versatile.
What You'll Need
To get started, you’ll need a few basic supplies:
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Pillowcases (standard or king-size depending on your chair size)
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Optional: Ribbon, twine, brooches, stencils, or fabric paint
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Iron (for a crisp, clean finish)
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Scissors (only if you want a custom fit)
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Newspaper (if painting or stenciling)
Before buying anything new, check your linen closet, you might already have pillowcases that can be repurposed. If you're shopping for new ones, opt for cotton or satin in colors or patterns that complement your dining room. You can even coordinate them with your table runners or cushion covers for a cohesive look (like our hand-block printed cushion cover collections).
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Simple Slipcovers Using a Pillow Case
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Measure Your Chairs Start by measuring the back and seat of your chairs at their widest points. This will help you choose the right pillowcase size. A king-sized pillowcase might be better for wider chairs, while standard ones typically do the trick for most.
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Wash and Iron the Pillowcases Always wash and iron your pillowcases before starting. This gives them a neat appearance and makes any customization like painting or stenciling easier and cleaner.
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Slip the Pillowcase Over the Chair Back Take one pillowcase and slide it over the back of the chair, open end down. Adjust it so the fit is snug, and tuck any excess fabric where the chair back meets the seat. If there’s too much bunching, you can carefully trim the sides and fold or tuck them neatly underneath.
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Optional: Cover the Seat Cushion If your dining chairs have loose cushions, you can cover them using a second pillowcase. Position the open end at the back and tuck the excess fabric under the cushion for a clean look.
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Add Decorative Touches This is where the magic happens. Tie a ribbon or length of twine around the chair back for a farmhouse feel. Want something more personalized? Use fabric paint and stencils to add names, initials, or motifs. Be sure to insert newspaper inside the pillowcase if you’re painting, to prevent bleed-through.
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Adjust for Fit If you’re handy with a sewing machine, you can take the fit a step further. Turn the pillowcase inside out, mark where it needs to be narrower, cut along that line, and sew a new seam. But for a true no-sew solution, careful tucking works just fine.
When to Use This DIY Trick
This easy pillowcase hack is ideal for:
- Holiday gatherings or family dinners
- Birthday parties or kids' events
- Backyard weddings or garden brunches
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Everyday use if you're looking for a quick decor refresh
Since the covers are removable and washable, they’re also practical for homes with kids or pets.
Sustainable and Stylish
One of the best parts about this DIY is how eco-friendly it can be. Repurpose old pillowcases, shop secondhand, or rotate your covers by season. You can even coordinate them with your bed linens or table settings for a pulled-together look throughout your home.
Conclusion
Learning how to make simple slipcovers using a pillow case for dining room chairs is a perfect example of how small changes can make a big impact. With minimal time and money, you can give your dining space a polished, custom feel and have fun in the process.
Looking for more simple ways to refresh your home? Explore Coral Slub’s collection of cushion covers, table runners, and more to mix and match with your new DIY slipcovers.
