$1 Fix for Saggy Couch Cushions

With a needle, thread, a few buttons, and 15 minutes, you can convert your couch cushions from sagging, shapeless sacks to sculpted, snugly supports.

Here's how:

Step 1: Remove the Stuffing

Step 2: Thread a Needle

Stick thread through the eye of the needle.

Loop the thread and tie a knot, leaving yourself a foot or two of thread to work with.

Step 3: Sew the Cushion Together With Buttons

If you're unfamiliar with how to sew buttons, there are some good instructables (like this one).

I used four buttons to pinch my cushion together in two places. Depending on the size of your cushion and how firm you want it, you might use more or less.

Step 4: Stuff the Stuffing Back In

Step 5: Enjoy

Don't want to sew buttons? Don't want to get up? Looking for an excuse to procrastinate? Check out my website for more articles, short stories, and two novels about teenage medieval secret agents!).

Thanks for reading.

Comments

[LegoSurvivor]

that is a pretty good idea.

[skiptoloo]

I have upholstered for 39 year, I would say skip the dental floss it will never hold up. It would be worth your time to buy some heavy button thread and a long needle.

[Sfbayarea1123]

My couch back pillows aren't removable! Can i still do this another way??

[DonnaLRC]

Does anyone in this group know how to repair the arms that are supposed to be cushioned. Mine have become detached. Super glued - twice; a failure both times. how about a construction- type stapler (can I rent one?)

Or; those nail heads that my Grandma used to re-upholster her chair. Did they screw in?

[Spritey01]

That's a great idea. Any tips for the seat cushions?

[DonnaLRC]

I bought replacement foam @ Joan Fabrics some years back. Buy when on sale - it matters! Keep it in the plastic bag - it holds up longer.

[Travis Daniel Bow]

You could try doing the same thing I suppose to tighten them up, but I don't have much experience with that (the cushions themselves were in pretty good shape on my couch).

[GeorgeHarris]

i must try this.

[Travis Daniel Bow]

let me know how it works out

[Willowrainwter]

Tnx for the tip. I thought I was going to have to.buy two new armchairs.

Now I won't need too.

[Travis Daniel Bow]

ha, great!

[LalaL6]

My mom was an upholsterer, and when she wanted to be sure any sewing stayed in place, she used clear nylon thread. It's just like a thin fishing line, which you could use if you don't have the nylon sewing thread. And yes, those big, long needles are wonderful for a lot of work that needs done with upholstered furniture.

[Travis Daniel Bow]

good tip

[LalaL6]

Thanks!

[LesB]

Since one has the stuffing out, one could replace it with new stuffing of one's choice. This would of course up the cost, but might deliver some benefit for some.

[mlaiuppa.]

If you have a longer needle you don't have to take the stuffing out. You can get long needles at sewing shops or upholstery supplies, even doll repair supplies. You can use intrinsic thread or button thread, which is thicker and can be found at sewing shops or dental floss. If you end up at upholstery shops for the needle they have a thick thread used for this purpose. Since you probably won't have matching fabric I'd just buy regular buttons but try to get large ones 1 inch or larger across. Make sure they are smooth.

[fanofdory]

any tips for sagging leather couch?

[Travis Daniel Bow]

I think you could do the same thing with leather?

[theresaw]

Such a good idea! I've never felt compelled to make a comment until now. Thanks for a great write up! Headed to do mine now! :)

[Travis Daniel Bow]

thanks! if you have time to post a before/after picture, I'd love to see it.