Size 48cm diameter and 45cm height

You Will Need

• suitable image of flower
• flower image printed onto 50cm-diameter canvas-type fabric
• 160 x 50cm purple mock suede fabric
• matching coloured sewing thread

NOTE This slipcover can be made to fit any size of round ottoman. Measure the height, diameter and circumference, and adjust the fabric requirements accordingly.

Choosing Your Image
Select a flower that forms a round-shaped design from above, otherwise you may have to cut away leaves and petals to form the shape and you may lose content in your design.

To Print
Take your chosen colour image to a professional canvas printer. If you do not have one in your area, contact a photography print shop, computer screen-printer or graphic-art materials supplier. The image must be blown up to fit the ottoman’s diameter and then printed directly onto the linen canvas fabric. Remember the final design must include the seam allowances. Check with the printer if the image on the canvas should be hand washed or dry-cleaned.

To Sew
1 Measure round the circumference of the ottoman and jot down your measurements, adding a further 1cm for seam allowances. A 48cm diameter ottoman should measure 150cm in circumference. Measure the height and allow 1cm for seams and 4cm for hems. Cut a strip of purple mock suede fabric to these measurements.

2 With the right sides facing, fold the strip in half, width ways, and machine stitch the side seam closed. Press the seam open. Open the fabric to form a large tube shape.

3 With the right sides facing, place the canvas print into the top of the fabric tube. Tack the canvas in place. Machine stitch the canvas in place. It is a good idea to work a second row of stitching immediately next to the first row for reinforcement. Snip frequently into the seam allowance around the curves so that it forms a neat edge. Make sure when snipping that you don’t cut into the seam. Remove the tacking stitches and turn the slipcover through to the right side.

4 Fit the cover over the ottoman at this stage and leave to hang for a day or two. The fabric will start to drape evenly from the top seam. While fitted, mark the hemline with dressmaking pins. Remove the cover carefully. If necessary, trim the lower edge.

5 Fold a 2cm double hem along the lower edge and top-stitch in place. Fit the finished slipcover over the ottoman.

Text and image: Ideas magazine