How to Make Duct Tape Slip Cover for Your Old Couch

Ok, so if you are into eclectic and unusual furniture, this simple duct tape upholstery project is for you. I wish I had thought of it while I was in college. Duct tape comes in a huge selection of colors and hit project is a great way to create a contemporary looking sofa or chair out of an old or existing piece.

You are going to need quite a few rolls of duct tape for this project, so it is not the most affordable project, but when you consider the cost of a new couch or an upholstery job, it is a lot less expensive.

If you are reupholstering an existing sofa with duct tape, then you should expect to spend about $100 for this project.

To reupholster your Couch in Duct Tap you Will Need:

Duct tape (Any colors and lots of it)
Scissor
Tape Measure

Now, the first thing I like to do is to remove the cushions from the couch. They will be the easiest part of this upholstery project, just like with traditional slip covers.

If there is a back to your cushions you should start the duct tape there. If there is no back and the cushions on the chair or sofa look the same from the front or back, then I would start on the side.

Simply start near the bottom and start wrapping the duct tape around and around the cushion to create the slip cover. Do not pull the tape too tightly or you will change the shape of the cushion.

Now, you may find it easier to cover the edges of the pillow first, then do the front and back. Wrap the duct tape around the pillow working around and around the top, left side, bottom and right side. Cut the duct tape off. Now, You can cut pieces of duct tape that reach across the front and end about one inch into the left and right side. Repeat the son the back.

As you can see there are quite a few possibilities for creating great details with this duct tape slip cover project. Your couch or chair will be unique, so you may need to get creative.

Now, you have to tackle the main body of the sofa slip cover.

I recommend starting high and then working low. This will allow you great control at the beginning where you have more visible parts of the sofa.

If you have large arms on the chair or sofa that have a flat front, then you may want to cover them with duct tape first. Use an exacto knife to cut the edges off neatly.

Tips:

Try not to overlap too much of the duct tape. This will create bumps in the duck tape when you really want a smooth flat surface.

Try wrapping the main body of the sofa in one continual roll of duct tape. This means pull your couch out from the wall. Walk around and around.

Stick with one color on the body of the couch. You could use a different color of duct tape on the pillows and cushions.

You can use Sharpie and permanent markers to write on the duct tape. This would be a fun sofa slip cover project for a dorm room because you have al of your friend sign the couch slip cover. When you graduate you could keep it as a memento of your partying and studying days.

You can find great used couches for so little money. I bought a couch for $25 at a thrift store in college. It would have been perfect for this simple slip cover project.

If you are buying a couch for this duct tape upholstery project you should go for a simple and basic shape. Rolled arms and wood working will create more work for you.

Don’t worry if the cushions are in bad shape or the fabric is torn. The duct tape can cover any surface and hold them together and make them strong.