Hello AT,
I want to slip cover my tight-back, leather couch, but have no idea where to turn for custom (fabric) slip covers.
I could even provide the fabric - I was thinking of a really nice Amy Butler print.
The picture is a few years old - it now has a tear in one of the seat cushions and my cats have clawed hundreds of little pits in the top...
(Note: Include a pic of your problem and your question gets posted first.)

I never really liked the leather, anyway, it was my husband's choice and I only agreed because we got it for a steal at ABC.
I searched your site, but all I could find were pre-made slipcovers.
I am willing to pay for someone to make something custom, but I just have no idea who to ask.
Thanks! Kori
You could try Todo Es (online)
view metromom's profile
There are many websites, including Todo Es as mentioned above, that make custom slipcovers. Google "custom slipcovers" and you'll see. I haven't used any of these services, but I know they exist. You can also ask around town and at your local fabric stores, and look in the phone book. Perhaps your local upholstery shops make custom slipcovers. Many times there will be a business card section at fabric stores. If not, an employee may be able to refer you. I'm sure you are aware that custom slipcovers can be very pricey. If you go for an Amy Butler print make sure it is substantial. I wouldn't pick one of her quilter weight cottons -- they're not suitable for slipcovers. It might be on the flimsy side, not to mention not very durable, and slip and slide all over that leather.
Since custom slipcovers are very pricey (an investment almost) you might think of picking a washable neutral colored fabric, such as cotton duck, canvas, or denim, and saving the Amy Butler fabric for smaller items such as throw pillows, ottoman slipcover, etc. If you do go the custom route make sure the person preshrinks your fabric so you can wash and dry it for years to come.
The one piece slipcover styles from places like Surefit.com can be very attractive, especially if you aren't planning on keeping this sofa for a long time. Custom slipcovers are usually in the thousand dollar, or more, range. Custom covers are nice because you will have an individual zipped cover for each seat cushion, the fabric of your choice, and a more tailored, streamlined look.
Also, there are leather people that can fix tears to perfection. They even make house calls.
view fastkat's profile
When I couldn't find any ready-made slipcovers for my slipper chairs, I stumbled upon BeforeNAfterslipcovers.com. I ordered a pair from them because the price looked very good compared to what I would spend on fabric and labor if I got them made by a local tailor (the upholstery fabric store had a ready recommendation). I was impressed by the number of measurements you have to enter into the site when you order. I ordered them on Jan 23, and since it takes 4-6 weeks, I haven't received them as yet. It might be worth a look for you, though.
view kefuoe's profile
You could wander over to Etsy and search for a local sewer in your area and see if you can work out something.
view Rabbit's profile
I don't know the name of the shop, but I walk by it all the time. It's on Reade Street in Tribeca between Church and Broadway. There's a partially upholstered sofa in the window.
view ch802's profile
I second the Amy Butler caution. Make sure whatever you buy is upholstery weight. Also, prints require more yardage, because the pattern has to be matched - with bigger patterns requiring more yardage than small.
Thirdly, I can't tell for sure but it looks like your couch have a tight seat? Meaning there are no separate seat cushions. Slipcovers tend to be a bit messier on tight seat/tight back pieces. You need to have extra fabric where the seat and arms, or seat and back, join; because of the way the cushions give when you sit down. Then as you shift around or get up, the extra fabric will tend to pull, bunch and wrinkle. That looks all right on a shabby-chic style sofa, but your sofa has a streamlined design. You can use rods/weights wedged between the cushions to help keep the fabric in place, but it's just not going to stay perfectly smooth.
Last, for the cost of the fabric and the slipcovering, you might do better buying a new sofa. I just bought some fabric for two 25"x29" floor cushions. For a solid fabric (no matching required), I bought 7 yards. You're going to spend hundreds on the fabric alone.
I don't have any names for you, but do a search here on the site, you might come up with a few.
view greer's profile
I have made many slipcovers in my day. The problem with putting a slipcover over leather is that it tends to slide around over the leather whenever you sit on it.
To help avoid this you need to select a fabric that has a foam or rubber type backing (not the greatest fabric selections). Also, one of the "Ultra Suede" type fabrics might also have enough friction to prevent the slippage.
view gymfly's profile
The slipcover man in Minneapolis does great work. (I don't know if he does long-distance, but his site has great info on fabric selection and such.)
http://www.designersbestfriend.com/
view kalatraz's profile
kefuoe, wondering if you received your slipcovers and how you like them. Are you covering a leather or fabric sofa? I am pondering the same thing and would appreciate your feedback.
Thanks!
view skny0104's profile