How To Make Picnic Table Covers

## How to Make Picnic Table Covers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Outdoor enthusiasts and picnic lovers can enhance their outdoor dining experience with custom-made picnic table covers. Whether you prefer classic checkered patterns or stylish waterproof fabrics, creating a cover is a simple and rewarding project that adds a touch of personality and protection to your picnics.

Materials You'll Need:

Outdoor fabric (water-resistant or waterproof)
Measuring tape or ruler
Scissors or rotary cutter
Sewing machine or hand sewing needle and thread
Elastic cord or bungee cords
Grommets (optional)

Step 1: Measure Your Picnic Table

Measure the length and width of your picnic table. Add 18-24 inches to both measurements to allow for overhang and hem allowance. For example, if your table is 6 feet long and 3 feet wide, your fabric should be 7 feet 6 inches long and 4 feet 6 inches wide.

Step 2: Cut the Fabric

Fold your fabric in half lengthwise, aligning the selvedge edges. Measure and mark the dimensions from Step 1 onto the fabric. Cut out the rectangle along the marked lines.

Step 3: Hem the Edges (Optional)

If desired, you can hem the edges of your cover to prevent fraying. Fold the raw edges by about 1 inch and press them. Fold them over again by 1 inch and press. Stitch or hand sew along the folded edges to secure the hem.

Step 4: Create a Tunnel for the Elastic Cords

Fold the top and bottom edges of the cover down by 2-3 inches. Press them. This will create a tunnel for the elastic cords. You can reinforce the tunnel by top-stitching around the edges.

Step 5: Insert Elastic Cords

Cut elastic cords to the same length as the top and bottom edges of the cover. Thread the cords through the tunnels, starting from one corner and working your way around. Secure the ends of the cords by tying them together.

Step 6: Add Grommets (Optional)

If you want to secure the cover to your table, you can add grommets to the corners. Mark the desired locations, cut out small holes, and insert the grommets according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Once the cover is complete, check if it fits your table properly. If necessary, adjust the elastic cords or grommet placement. Don't forget to wash and dry your cover before your next picnic to remove any creases.

Tips:

* Use heavy-duty outdoor fabric for durability. * Consider using a fabric with a water-resistant or waterproof coating for extra protection from the elements. * If you don't have a sewing machine, you can hand-sew the cover using a heavy-duty needle and thread. * You can create a more decorative cover by adding contrasting fabric, fringe, or embroidery. * Store your cover in a dry location when not in use.