Creating a Custom Touch!

How to Create a Custom Chair Cover with a Pillow Sham and Staple Gun

I don’t know if you guys are like me, but I want my home to have that custom touch without necessarily wanting the custom price tag attached to everything. Sure, there are certain pieces you should absolutely invest in! Pieces that will likely get a lot of traffic or use might be something you would consider in a project like this. This ensures you to not have a breakdown when something gets dropped or stained. Thus leading me to our DIY! Transforming an old or plain chair into a stylish accent piece doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With just a pillow sham and an upholstery staple gun, you can create a custom chair cover that adds personality and comfort to your space. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you achieve a chic look in no time.

Why Use a Pillow Sham?

Pillow shams are decorative covers for pillows, often featuring unique patterns, textures, and finishes. They’re typically made from durable fabrics and come in standard sizes, making them perfect for small upholstery projects like chair covers. Plus, using a sham is a clever way to reuse those linens you already have or score beautiful fabrics that are very similar to a more expensive version.

Materials Needed

• 1 pillow sham (note that you should measure your seat for accuracy of fabric needed depending on chair size. I will share the one I used. Hint: It looks so much like the pricier version.

  

  
  

• Upholstery staple gun and staples (I will share the one I used) It was perfect!!

• Scissors

• Flathead screwdriver (for removing staples if needed)

• Measuring tape

  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Chair

• Remove the seat cushion if possible. Most dining chairs have a seat that can be unscrewed from the frame.

• Clean the chair frame and cushion to ensure a smooth, dust-free surface.

  
  

2. Measure and Position the Sham

• Lay the pillow sham flat and place the seat cushion (or the chair itself) on top.

• Adjust the sham so the pattern is centered and the fabric covers all sides of the cushion with a few extra inches to spare.

• If the sham is too large, trim excess fabric, leaving enough to wrap under the cushion.

  
  

3. Attach the Sham

• Pull the fabric tight over one side of the cushion and staple it to the underside. Start at the center, then work outwards toward the corners.

• Repeat on the opposite side, pulling the fabric tight before stapling.

• Continue with the remaining sides, folding the corners neatly for a tailored look.

• If your sham has decorative flanges or trims, tuck them under or arrange them as desired before stapling.

  
  

4. Secure and Finish

• Check for any loose areas and add extra staples as needed.

• Trim away any excess fabric to avoid bulk.

• Reattach the seat cushion to the chair frame.

Make sure your pattern is centered before you begin securing the fabric.

Such an Elevated Look!! You will get so many compliments.

Styling Tips

• Mix and match shams with different patterns for a playful look.

  This is a really cute way to mix stripes and plaid

• Use velvet or textured shams for added luxury.

• Pair your covered chair with a coordinating throw pillows for a cohesive design.

My Final Thoughts!

Creating a chair cover with a pillow sham and staple gun is a quick, affordable way to refresh your furniture and express your style. Whether you’re updating a dining set, vanity stool, or accent chair, this DIY project was super easy with little time spent and honestly delivers impressive results with minimal effort.

Enjoy your new, custom look!

XOXO

Élevé Design Collective