How to Fix a Ripped Couch Cushion

Small rips on couch cushions are not only ugly, but they can quickly become worse if left untreated. Fortunately, most couch cushions come with removable covers, allowing you to fix the rip using an iron-on patch with no need for sewing. These patches are available in any fabric store and are quite easy to use. If the rip is not severe and you fix it carefully, no one will be able to tell it was ever there.

Rubber cement (optional)
Ironing board
Scissors
Double-stick tape
Iron-on patch
Fabric
Iron

Instructions

- 1
  Unzip the cushion and remove the foam insert. If the insert itself is ripped, apply rubber cement to both sides of the tear. When the cement has dried, press the tear closed.
- 2
  Turn the cushion fabric inside-out and place it on an ironing board. You will be fixing it from the back side.
- 3
  Trim away any loose, fraying threads.
- 4
  Pull the edges of the rip together and attach them to the ironing board using double-stick tape. This will hold the rip closed as you work.
- 5
  Cut out an iron-on patch that is 1 inch wider and 1 inch longer than the rip.
- 6
  Place the patch onto the ripped area, then place another piece of fabric on top of it. This protective fabric can be a towel or an old shirt, and will prevent the iron from scorching the patch.
- 7
  Iron the patch on the cotton setting for 30 seconds.
- 8
  Scratch the edges of the patch with your fingernail to make sure it is securely attached. If it is not, iron it for another 30 seconds.
- 9
  Turn the cover so it is no longer inside-out. Peel off the double-stick tape on the outside, then cover the rip with the protective cloth and iron it for 30 seconds. This final ironing on the outside will help to ensure that the patch is bonded as securely as possible.

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