Outdoor seat cushions are a great way to provide comfortable seating on patios, porches, pool decks, and other outdoor living spaces. However, keeping the seat cushions securely in place can be a challenge, especially on windy days. Using ties is an easy and effective method for securing outdoor seat cushions so they stay put instead of blowing around or sliding off chairs and benches.
When shopping for ties to attach to outdoor cushions, look for durable materials like cotton, nylon, or polyester that can withstand sun exposure and moisture while still being flexible enough to tie tightly. Thicker ties around 1-inch wide generally hold better than skinny ribbons. Opt for solid colors rather than patterns, which tend to show dirt over time. Depending on the style of your outdoor cushions, you may want longer ties around 18-24 inches so you can wrap them fully around cushions and tie them in a knot or bow.
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Should You Sew or Use Tie-On Fasteners?
You have two main options for attaching ties to outdoor cushions – sewing the ties on or using removable tie-on fasteners. Here is an overview of each method:
Sewn-On Ties
– Provides a very secure, permanent attachment
– Best for cushions that will remain outdoors at all times
– Allows you to integrate the ties into the cushion seams for a tidy look
– Need basic sewing skills and a sewing machine
– Damaged ties cannot be replaced easily
Tie-On Fasteners
– Allow you to switch out ties seasonally or replace damaged ties
– Easy to remove ties before storing cushions indoors over winter
– Work well for cushions that are only used outdoors part of the year
– Fasteners attach using grommets, ribbons, buttons, or hook and loop tape
– Provide a less seamless look compared to sewn-on ties
So in summary, sewn-on ties are the most secure for cushions that live outdoors, while tie-on fasteners provide more versatility if you need to remove your cushions seasonally.
How to Sew On Ties
If you decide to permanently sew ties onto your outdoor seat cushions, here are step-by-step instructions:
Supplies Needed
– Outdoor cushion
– Fabric ties cut to desired length
– Coordinating thread
– Hand-sewing needle or sewing machine
– Scissors
– Pins
Instructions
1. Cut ties to desired length based on cushion size. For an 18-inch square cushion, cut four ties about 18-24 inches long each.
2. Decide on tie placement. You may want to position a tie at each corner or in the middle of each side.
3. Fold under 1⁄4 inch on each end of the ties and press flat. This prevents fraying.
4. Pin ties in position on the cushion cover, folding under the 1⁄4 inch at each end. Place ties so raw edges align with cushion seams.
5. If hand-sewing, use a whip stitch to sew each tie in place, stitching along the pressed 1⁄4 inch folded edge. Remove pins as you sew.
6. For machine sewing, change to coordinating thread and edgestitch ties in place along the pressed edges.
7. Double check ties are securely sewn by gently pulling on them before using the cushion.
Tips
– Match thread color to ties so stitches blend in
– Add extra reinforcement by stitching tie ends twice
– Place ties on bottom of cushion if concerned about appearance
– Use decorative ties that complement your cushion fabric
Now you can confidently keep outdoor seat cushions in their rightful place by sewing on coordinating ties. Just tie the cushions tightly to chairs, benches, or railings so they don’t blow every which way.
Using Tie-On Fasteners for Outdoor Cushions
As an alternative to permanently sewing on ties, you can use removable fasteners that allow you to tie and untie your outdoor cushions as needed. Here are some popular styles of tie-on fasteners and how to attach them:
Ribbon Tie Fasteners
These fasteners feature ribbons to thread through metal grommets on cushion corners.
Supplies Needed:
– Cushion
– Grommet tool
– Grommets, size #0 or 1
– Ribbon in desired length and width
Instructions:
1. Mark where to install grommets on each corner of the cushion bottom.
2. Use grommet tool to cut holes and install grommets.
3. Thread ribbon through grommets, tying knots on each end to secure.
4. Tie ribbons around outdoor furniture frame.
Button Fasteners
This style uses buttons sewn to the cushion bottom and ties that button on.
Supplies Needed:
– Cushion
– Sew-on buttons, 5/8-inch size
– Fabric ties
– Coordinating thread
– Hand needle or sewing machine
Instructions:
1. Mark button placement on cushion underside. Space evenly.
2. Sew buttons in place using a tight zigzag or cross stitch.
3. Sew one side of each tie to the center back of each button.
4. Tie cushion on by threading ties through buttons underneath.
Hook and Loop Tape
Hook and loop fastener strips stick to each other to hold ties on.
Supplies Needed:
– Cushion
– Hook and loop tape strips
– Fabric ties
– Adhesive for outdoor fabric
Instructions:
1. Adhere hook side of tape to cushion bottom.
2. Sew loop side of tape to ends of fabric ties.
3. Stick ties onto cushion by pressing loop tape to hook tape.
Elastic Corner Straps
Stretchy corner straps secure ties for a no-sew solution.
Supplies Needed:
– Cushion
– Elastic corner straps with grommets
– Outdoor-rated ties
Instructions:
1. Slide straps over each bottom corner of cushion.
2. Thread ties through grommets on straps.
3. Stretch straps under cushion while tying ties.
How to Tie Outdoor Cushions Securely
Once you’ve attached ties to your outdoor seat cushions, it’s important to properly tie and secure them in place. Here are some tips:
– Pull ties very snug, leaving no slack. The tighter the better for preventing blowing and sliding.
– Use secure knots like square knots that won’t easily unravel. Avoid loose bows.
– For two-cushion seating like loveseats, tie the inside cushions first, then the outsides tied over top.
– Tie to stable metal or wood frames whenever possible, not plastic arms.
– Add a small clip on each knotted tie end so they can’t work loose.
– Check ties daily for loosening and retie anytime cushions seem less stable.
– Consider adding a second set of ties perpendicular to the first for very windy areas.
– Remove ties if a storm with heavy winds or rain is forecast so cushions don’t get damaged.
Knot Styles for Outdoor Cushion Ties
Here are some excellent outdoor cushion tie knots to try:
Square Knot
Also called a reef knot, the square knot holds extremely well and won’t loosen on its own. Just left over right, then right over left.
Double Slip Knot
The double slip knot provides a tidier look than a square knot and still has great holding power when pulled tight.
Figure 8 Knot
This knot effectively joins two ties together, preventing loose ends from dangling. Form one tie into a loop and pass the other end through before tightening.
Outdoor Cushion Tie Ideas and Inspiration
Ties for outdoor cushions don’t have to be boring. Get creative with different styles, colors, prints, and textures to complement your cushion fabrics. Here are some fun ideas:
Nautical Rope Ties
For a coastal vibe, use natural jute, cotton, or hemp rope. These materials withstand weathering well while adding organic texture.
Bright and Bold Ties
Choose ties that contrast or match bold cushion prints and patterns. Multi-colored options make a fun statement.
Textured and Twisted Ties
Ribbons and ties with variegated stripes, wrinkles, or twists add visual interest compared to flat, solid ties.
Gathered and Ruffled Ties
For a soft, feminine look, cut extra-wide ties and gather or ruffle them before attaching to corners.
Monogrammed Ties
Customize cushion ties by stitching on monogrammed initials, names, or phrases.
Tassel Tie Ends
Adding colored tassels on tie ends provides flair and helps weigh them down.
Patterned Prints
Florals, paisleys, check prints, and other patterns give ties a splash of color and personality.
Whatever ties you choose, be sure they are made of weather-resistant fabric that won’t fade or deteriorate when exposed to the elements. Have fun mixing and matching ties to reflect your personal style or coordinate with your outdoor décor.
Troubleshooting Outdoor Cushion Ties
No matter how tightly you tie down your outdoor seat cushions, you may eventually run into problems with the ties loosening, falling apart, tearing, or otherwise failing to keep cushions in place. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
Problem: Ties keep coming untied
– Try tighter, more secure knots like square knots
– Check for fraying ends that prevent knots from holding
– Add tiny clips on the ends to prevent knots from loosening
– Use wider, heavier ties that don’t pull loose as easily
– Make sure furniture frames allow you to pull ties very tight
Problem: Ties are tearing at stress points
– Reinforce tie ends with extra stitching if sewn on
– Use abrasion-resistant materials like nylon webbing
– Install metal grommets at tie ends to prevent tears
– Position ties intelligently to minimize motion stress
Problem: Elastic corner straps have lost stretch
– Heat activated straps with a blow dryer to rejuvenate elasticity
– Replace old straps with new outdoor-rated elastic
– Switch to a different tie-on fastener system like ribbons
Problem: Ties are bleached out from sun exposure
– Rotate cushions to equalize sun damage
– Use UV-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella
– Add new ties each season as needed
Problem: Ties don’t match cushions after washing
– Select ties in a color family that matches a range of cushion colors
– Find ties with good colorfastness that won’t wash out
– Hand wash ties separately from cushions
– Replace ties whenever cushion fabric starts fading
Troubleshoot ripped ties or loose, weather-worn materials right away so your cushions don’t blow away on the next breezy day. Stay on top of tie maintenance and you’ll get many seasons of use from your tied-on outdoor seat cushions.
Conclusion
Tying outdoor seat cushions securely in place helps create a comfortable and inviting outdoor living space you and your family can fully enjoy, without worrying about wayward cushions. Whether you opt to sew on permanent ties or use removable fasteners, choose durable materials that can withstand sun, wind, and rain. Place ties strategically and tie them tightly using secure knots like square knots. Have fun picking colorful ties that reflect your personal style. Check cushions regularly to ensure ties remain tight and replace any that show signs of damage. Soon you’ll be able to relax on your patio knowing your cushions will stay right where they belong.