A giant bean bag chair is the ultimate in casual, comfy seating. If you want to lounge in style without spending a fortune, a DIY oversized bean bag is a great option. With some basic sewing skills and a bit of time, you can create a custom bean bag chair that’s huge and huggable.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: You can make your own giant bean bag chair by getting a large circle of fabric, sewing it into a bag shape with an opening, filling it with polystyrene beads, and then hand-sewing the opening closed.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your very own giant bean bag chair at home. You’ll learn how to choose the right fabric and filling, calculate how much you need, and follow sewing steps to construct a durable, overstuffed bean bag.
Choose an Appropriately Sized Pattern and Fabric
Decide on the Size
When making your own oversized bean bag chair, the first step is to decide on the size you want. Consider the space where you plan to place the chair and how many people will be using it at once. Do you want a chair that can comfortably fit one person or do you prefer a larger size that can accommodate multiple people?
Keep in mind that oversized bean bag chairs come in various sizes, so take measurements and choose a pattern that matches your desired dimensions.
Select Durable Fabrics
The fabric you choose for your oversized bean bag chair is crucial for its longevity and comfort. Look for fabrics that are both durable and easy to clean. Strong materials like polyester, nylon, or denim are good options as they can withstand regular use and resist stains.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious feel, consider using velvet or faux fur fabric. These fabrics add a touch of elegance to your chair while still being durable. Remember to take into account the overall aesthetic of your room when selecting the fabric for your chair.
When looking for patterns and fabrics, there are many online retailers and physical stores that offer a wide range of options. Websites like fabric.com and joann.com have a vast selection of fabrics suitable for making oversized bean bag chairs.
Don’t be afraid to explore different patterns and textures to find the perfect fabric that matches your style and preferences.
Calculate Fill Amount
Before you start making your own oversized bean bag chair, it’s important to calculate the fill amount you will need. This will ensure that your bean bag chair is comfortable and provides the right amount of support.
There are two main steps to calculating the fill amount: determining the cubic feet and converting it to poundage.
Determine Cubic Feet
The first step in calculating the fill amount is to determine the cubic feet of your bean bag chair. To do this, you will need to measure the dimensions of your chair. Measure the height, width, and depth of the chair in inches.
Then, multiply these measurements together to find the total cubic inches. To convert cubic inches to cubic feet, divide the total cubic inches by 1728. This will give you the cubic feet of your bean bag chair.
Convert to Poundage
Once you have determined the cubic feet of your bean bag chair, you will need to convert it to poundage. The weight of the fill material will depend on the type of material you choose. For example, if you decide to fill your bean bag chair with polystyrene beads, you will need approximately 1 pound of beads for every 1 cubic foot of space.
However, if you choose to fill your chair with shredded foam, you may need more or less depending on the density of the foam.
To convert cubic feet to poundage, simply multiply the cubic feet by the weight per cubic foot. For example, if your bean bag chair has a cubic feet measurement of 10 and you are using polystyrene beads, you will need approximately 10 pounds of beads to fill your chair.
Calculating the fill amount for your oversized bean bag chair is an important step to ensure that it is comfortable and provides the right amount of support. By following these steps, you can easily determine the cubic feet and convert it to the appropriate poundage for your fill material of choice.
Prepare the Fabric
Wash and Dry Fabric
Before you start making your own oversized bean bag chair, it’s important to prepare the fabric properly. Start by washing and drying the fabric to ensure it is clean and free from any dirt or debris. This step is crucial because it will prevent any stains or odors from developing on your bean bag chair in the future.
Make sure to check the care instructions on the fabric label to determine the appropriate washing method. Some fabrics may require gentle washing or specific temperature settings. Follow these instructions to avoid damaging the fabric.
Once the fabric is clean, it’s important to dry it thoroughly. You can either air dry the fabric or use a dryer, depending on the fabric type. It’s recommended to dry the fabric completely to prevent any moisture from seeping into the bean bag chair filling.
Remember, a clean and dry fabric ensures a fresh and long-lasting bean bag chair that you can enjoy for years to come!
Cut Two Circles
The next step in preparing the fabric for your oversized bean bag chair is to cut two circles. These circles will serve as the top and bottom pieces of the chair. The size of the circles will depend on the desired dimensions of your bean bag chair.
Measure the diameter of the circles based on the size you want for your bean bag chair. You can use a compass or a circular object as a guide to trace the circles onto the fabric. Make sure to leave some extra fabric around the traced circles to allow for seam allowances.
Use sharp fabric scissors to carefully cut out the circles. Take your time and make precise cuts to ensure a neat and professional finish. If you’re using a thick fabric, you may need to use fabric weights or pins to secure the fabric in place while cutting.
Once you have the two circles cut out, you’re one step closer to creating your own cozy and comfortable oversized bean bag chair!
Sew the Bean Bag
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials, it’s time to start sewing your oversized bean bag chair. Sewing may seem daunting if you’re a beginner, but with a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to create a comfortable and stylish chair that you can enjoy for years to come.
Pin and Sew Three Sides
The first step is to pin and sew three sides of the fabric together. Start by placing the two pieces of fabric with their right sides facing each other. Use pins to hold the fabric in place, ensuring that the edges align properly.
Then, using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, sew along the pinned edges, leaving one side open for filling.
Leave Opening for Filling
When sewing the bean bag, it’s important to leave an opening for filling. This opening should be large enough for you to easily pour in the filling material, whether it’s beans, foam pellets, or shredded foam.
Be sure to reinforce the edges of the opening with a double stitch to prevent any accidental spills or tears.
Reinforce Stress Points
Reinforcing the stress points of the bean bag chair is crucial to ensure its durability. Stress points are areas that will experience the most strain, such as the corners or the seams. To reinforce these points, use a zigzag stitch or sew over the seams multiple times.
This will help distribute the weight evenly and prevent any potential tears or damage to the fabric.
Remember, sewing your own oversized bean bag chair allows you to customize it according to your preferences and style. You can choose from a wide variety of fabrics, colors, and patterns to create a chair that complements your home decor.
So go ahead and unleash your creativity while enjoying the comfort of your homemade bean bag chair!
Fill the Bean Bag
Once you have purchased or made your oversized bean bag chair cover, it’s time to start filling it up with beans. This step is crucial to ensure that your bean bag chair is comfortable and provides the right amount of support. Here’s how you can do it:
Funnel Beads into Opening
The first step is to find a large funnel that can fit into the opening of your bean bag chair. This will make it easier to pour the beans inside without making a mess. Position the funnel securely in the opening of the bean bag chair.
You can find a suitable funnel at your local hardware store or online. It’s important to choose a funnel that has a wide opening to allow the beans to flow smoothly.
Shake to Distribute Evenly
Once you have the funnel in place, start pouring the bean bag beads into the funnel. Gently shake the bean bag chair as you pour to distribute the beads evenly. This will ensure that your bean bag chair is comfortable and provides support to your body.
You can adjust the shaking intensity based on how evenly you want the beads to distribute. Remember, the more evenly distributed the beads are, the more comfortable your bean bag chair will be.
Add More Until Full
Continue pouring the bean bag beads into the funnel and shaking the chair until it is almost full. You may need to add more beads depending on the size of your bean bag chair and your personal preference for firmness.
It’s important not to overfill the bean bag chair, as this can make it too firm and uncomfortable to sit on. Leave a little bit of room at the top to allow the beads to adjust and conform to your body shape.
Remember, the filling process may take some time and patience, but the end result will be worth it. A well-filled bean bag chair provides a cozy and comfortable spot for relaxation and lounging.
Close the Opening
Once you have filled your oversized bean bag chair with the desired amount of filling, it’s time to close the opening. There are a few different methods you can use to secure the filling inside the chair.
Hand Sew Closed
One option is to hand sew the opening closed. This method requires a needle and strong thread. Start by folding the edges of the fabric inward and pinning them together. Then, using a strong stitch such as a whipstitch or backstitch, sew the opening closed.
Make sure to secure the thread with a knot at the end to prevent it from unraveling. This method provides a secure closure that will keep the filling in place.
Add Handle if Desired
If you’d like to add a handle to your oversized bean bag chair for easy transportation, this can be done during the closing process. Simply cut a strip of fabric or use a pre-made handle, and sew it onto the edges of the opening before closing it.
This will provide a convenient way to carry your bean bag chair from one room to another or even take it with you on outdoor adventures.
Remember, the closing process is an important step in making your own oversized bean bag chair. It ensures that the filling stays inside and prevents any potential messes. Take your time and choose a method that works best for you, whether it’s hand sewing or adding a handle.
Conclusion
Creating your own giant bean bag chair is an easy sewing project that lets you customize size, fabric, and fill to meet your needs. With the right materials, tools, and following the step-by-step instructions above, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind oversized bean bag chair that provides unbeatable comfort.
Now you have all the information you need to lounge in XXL style! Just be prepared to be the most popular seat in the house when friends and family discover how wonderful your giant bean bag chair is.
