Homeowners use couch covers for many reasons — they’re an inexpensive and easy way to mask worn furniture, protect against messes from pets and kids, or update your home’s appearance. If you’re thinking about incorporating couch covers into your decor, consider some of the following tips to get the most bang for your buck and the best fit for your home’s style.

Tip #1: Shabby Chic Is (Still!) In

We’ve all heard the term “shabby chic.” But what does it actually mean? Typically, shabby chic items are either older pieces that have been rehabbed or newly manufactured items designed to look older or stressed. The key to successfully adding shabby chic couch covers to your living area is to look for high-quality, one-of-a-kind solutions. Unless you’re a skilled seamstress, this is probably not an item you’re going to turn out in your sewing room. Instead, try browsing local overstock and secondhand stores, or take your search to the Internet. With this approach, you can refresh your room’s look by using either fitted covers for your couch’s frame and cushions, using a one-piece fitted drape over the entire piece of furniture, or skillfully tucking a themed quilt over and around your sofa.

Tip #2: More Is Less

Unfortunately, some couch cover designs can shroud your entire sofa in an overwhelming pattern while adding no discernible value to your room’s decor. Before you even begin looking for couch covers, take the time to really think about the overall look you’re going for. Are you trying to add Texas-style elements? Instead of choosing a garish design that replicates the Lone Star Flag all over your sofa, perhaps consider a tastefully centered star. Want to represent the West? Instead of having cowboys and Indians frolicking over your furniture, perhaps find a rustic quilt or fitted cover that relies only on one symbol, like a horseshoe or a longhorn depiction.

Tip #3: Blend In and Stand Out

A couch is rarely the central focal point in your living space. After all, you and your guests will be sitting on it, not staring at it. However, you can use coordinating elements like throws and pillows to capture attention. One way to achieve this is to use your design pieces to speak out, instead of your couch covers. In this case, you can choose a simple but elegant design for your covers, while getting more creative with complementary pillows and throws. Those features add warmth and depth, while still allowing your couch to blend in with your overall decor. Better yet, they’re easy to change, which means you can update designs on a whim.

Adding new couch covers to your living space can entirely change the overall feel of the room. Plan cautiously, shop wisely, and design with flair!

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