Fold a no-sew cushion cover from a square of fabric

Use fabric that folds without fighting back

This project works best as a decorative wrap for a cushion on an adult chair or sofa. It is not a fitted cover for a baby's sleep space, and loose knots or fabric tails should not be within a young child's reach. Choose a square of lightweight woven fabric large enough to enclose the cushion with generous corners left for tying. Test with a sheet or scarf before cutting a favorite fabric.

Avoid stiff canvas that makes a bulky knot and slippery fabric that immediately loosens. A small cotton print can conceal irregular folds, while stripes make every angle obvious. If the fabric is washable, prepare it according to its care instructions before measuring. Finish or fold raw edges so threads do not trail from the completed wrap.

Fold around the cushion itself

Lay the fabric flat, wrong side up, with one corner pointing toward you. Place the cushion in the center. Bring the near corner over it, then fold the opposite corner down so the fabric covers the cushion smoothly. Tuck the raw tips inside the folds rather than leaving them visible across the front.

Bring the two remaining corners across the middle and tie them into a flat knot. Adjust the folds before pulling tight; the aim is to hold the shape without compressing the cushion into a lump. Tuck the remaining ends underneath the wrap if they fit neatly. If the knot is too bulky to lean against, position it on the front and treat the cushion as decorative, or abandon the wrap in favor of a conventional sewn cover.

Turn the cushion and inspect the back. Fabric should cover the insert without a gap that opens as soon as it is moved. If you have to stretch a corner hard to make it reach, use a larger square. Adding pins creates a different problem in a soft furnishing and is not a good shortcut.

Let the temporary quality be useful

Use the wrap to test a color in the room or to bring out a seasonal fabric for a short period. Untie it for washing and refold after it is dry. Because there is no zipper or stitching, it can return to another use instead of becoming a permanent cushion cover you no longer want.

Check the knot when the cushion is handled. A fold that photographs beautifully may not survive daily lounging, and there is no need to pretend otherwise. If everyone keeps removing it to sit comfortably, use the fabric on a less-used accent cushion or turn it into a different project.