How to Add a Cushion to a Metal Bar Stool

Jazzing up your metal barstool by adding a cushion will protect the frame and add some style. Whether you have a bar stool that’s backless or has a back, cutting fabric and sewing a cushion on is relatively easy and can be done in a short amount of time.

Step 1 - Decide on a Fabric

Your bar stool cushion can be made of any fabric of your choice. Match the look of the fabric to the color scheme of the room it will be in to help you decide. If you have a very busy color scheme, a plain color might be best. If you’re looking to make a room more exciting, print can provide a nice kick.

Once you’ve decided on a fabric, make sure you buy enough to have a little extra in case it doesn’t turn out as you wanted it to the first time. For cushioning, you can choose foam or any other stuffing you desire. Some people use feathers, plastic bags, and cotton, so you have a wealth of options to choose from.

Step 2 - Measure and Trace

Place your fabric on the floor with the good side facing the ground. Flip your bar stool over and trace around it, adding extra inches for the sides and the seam.

Step 3 - Cut Fabric

Return the bar stool to an upright position and cut the fabric, making sure you’ve allowed extra room for the sides and the seam.

Step 4 - Pin Edges and Add Elastic

Turn the edge up half an inch, then another inch, and pin it into place. Take the elastic and position it around the barstool, just under where the cushion will go.

Step 5 - Attach Cords

If your bar stool has a back, cut four cords that are long enough to be tied to the back attachments. If you have a backless bar stool, take your fabric and hem the edges, allowing two free inches at the edge. This is where your elastic cord will be placed.

Step 6 - Sew Sides

Run the elastic through the fabric and try it on the bar stool. If it fits, you can sew the elastic together.

Step 7 - Sew Cords On

If you want to tie your cushion to your bar stool, you can sew your cords on at this time and tie them onto the stool’s backing.

Step 8 - Add Cushion

Once you’ve fitted the cushion over the bar stool with elastic, you’re ready to place your cushioning. Simply place the cushion on top of the stool and fit the fabric over. Snap into place, making sure the elastic is tight enough to hold but not too tight, as this may cause the fabric to tear.

Easy DIY

Although you can have your cushions custom made, making them yourself is a nice and easy DIY project. Creating a bar stool that slips on and off easily allows you to throw them in the wash and replace the stuffing easily.