Bean Bag Chairs

There’s something about the gentle give of a bean bag chair that feels like being wrapped in a hug from a cloud. I remember the first time I sat on one — it was my college dorm, and the chair was a secondhand find from a friend. The fabric was worn, but the foam inside was still plump and supportive, and I immediately knew I wanted one for my own home. Since then, I’ve made several of my own, each one tailored to a different room, different purpose, and different aesthetic.

Bean bag chairs are incredibly versatile. They can be the centerpiece of a living room, a cozy nook in a home office, or even a fun addition to a kid’s bedroom. What makes them so special is the way they conform to your body — they’re like a second skin that moves with you, and yet they still hold their shape when you stand up. The best part is, they’re not hard to make, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that can save you time and money.

If you're like me, you’ve probably found yourself staring at a bean bag chair in a store, wondering how much it costs and why it feels so different from every other piece of furniture. The answer is simple: it’s all in the fill. A high-quality bean bag chair uses a combination of foam and beads — or sometimes just beads — to create that perfect balance of softness and support. I’ve spent hundreds of hours experimenting with different materials and techniques, and I’m here to share what I’ve learned so you can make your own, exactly the way you want it.

Choosing the Right Fabric and Foam

As of September 2026, Fabric choices vary from vinyl to woven polyester — each with its own pros and cons. I’ve found that 100% polyester fabric is a great balance of comfort and durability, and it’s easy to clean. For the foam, I use high-density foam with a minimum density of 2.8 lb/ft³, which provides the right amount of support without being too rigid. I’ve tested several brands, and the one I recommend is 30% foam and 70% beads for a soft yet structured feel.^[1]

I’ve made three bean bag chairs in the past year, and two of them used foam and beads, while the third was 100% foam. The ones with beads were more comfortable, but they required more filling and a slightly larger bag. The 100% foam version was more compact and easier to store, but it didn’t conform as well to the body. It really depends on your needs and the space you have.^[2]

When I first started, I used a cheaper foam and it sagged over time. Now I use a foam that’s specifically designed for bean bags, and it’s held up for over a year. I recommend investing in quality foam, even if it costs a bit more, because it will last longer and feel better.

How to Measure and Cut the Fabric

I start by measuring the desired size of the chair. For a standard bean bag, I usually go with around 36 inches in diameter and 18 inches in height. Once I have the dimensions, I add 2 inches to each side for seam allowance. I then cut the fabric using a rotary cutter and a quilting ruler, which gives me clean, straight lines every time.^[3]

One of the mistakes I made early on was not allowing enough fabric for the seams. The chair came out too small and I had to re-cut everything. Now I always add extra fabric, even if it means buying a little more. It’s better to have a little extra than to be short on fabric.

After cutting, I press the fabric with a steam iron to remove any wrinkles and make it easier to sew. I’ve found that pressing the fabric before sewing makes a huge difference in how the seams lie and how the chair looks in the end.

Measure twice, cut once — and add extra for the seams.

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Sewing the Outer Shell

I sew the outer shell using a straight stitch on a sewing machine. I start by sewing the sides of the fabric together, leaving an opening for filling. I use a 1/4 inch seam allowance, and I press the seams open after each stitch to make the shell look neater. I’ve found that pressing the seams as I go makes a big difference in how the fabric lies and how the final product looks.

I’ve tried using a walking foot on my sewing machine, and it made a noticeable difference in how even the seams were. I also used a Teflon foot for the fabric, which helped reduce friction and made the sewing process smoother. I recommend investing in a good sewing machine and the right feet if you’re making multiple bean bag chairs.

After sewing the shell, I turned it right side out and pressed it again. I then topstitched around the edges to give it a more finished look. I’ve noticed that topstitching not only adds strength to the seams but also gives the chair a more professional appearance.

“There’s something about the gentle give of a bean bag chair that feels like being wrapped in a hug from a cloud.”— Customizing Dining Chairs editors

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Filling the Bean Bag

I fill the bean bag with a combination of foam and beads, which gives it the perfect amount of softness and structure. I start by adding the foam first, which acts as a base for the beads. I’ve found that using 20 pounds of beads and 10 pounds of foam works well for a standard-sized chair. I spread the beads and foam evenly inside the shell before closing the opening.

I’ve made a few mistakes with filling over the years. One time, I used too many beads and the chair felt too firm. Another time, I used too little foam and the beads shifted around too much, making the chair unstable. I’ve since learned that the right balance is crucial. I recommend starting with a smaller amount and adding more as needed until the chair feels just right.

Once I’ve filled the chair, I use a long stitch to close the opening, ensuring that the seams are tight and secure. I’ve also used a seam ripper to go back and adjust the filling if I’m not happy with the comfort level. It’s always good to test the chair after filling and make adjustments as needed.

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Finishing Touches and Adjustments

After filling the chair, I take a moment to adjust the filling and ensure that it’s evenly distributed. I’ve found that using a small piece of foam or a bead pillow can help with any uneven areas. I’ve also used a foam filler rod to push the beads into place and make sure they’re all tightly packed.

I then close the opening and press the seams again to make sure they’re flat and even. I’ve tried different types of stitching for the closing seam, but a straight stitch has always worked best for me. I’ve also used a zigzag stitch in some cases, but it’s not necessary unless you’re concerned about the seams coming apart.

Finally, I give the chair a final press with a steam iron and check the comfort level. If it feels too firm or too soft, I’ll adjust the filling and try again. It’s a bit of trial and error, but once you get the right balance, it’s worth it.

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Storing and Maintaining Your Bean Bag Chair

I store my bean bag chairs in a cool, dry place when not in use. I’ve found that keeping them in a closet or under the bed is a good way to protect them from dust and moisture. I also avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as that can cause the fabric to fade over time.

With cleaning, I use a mild detergent and water to wipe down the surface of the chair. I’ve found that a microfiber cloth works best for removing dust and stains. I never use harsh chemicals, as they can damage the fabric or the foam inside.

I’ve had one chair that started to smell after a few months, so I now spray it with a fabric freshener every few weeks. It’s a small step, but it helps keep the chair smelling fresh and looking new. I’ve also noticed that if the beads shift too much, the chair can become unstable, so I try to keep the filling as even as possible.

A little care goes a long way in keeping your bean bag chair looking and feeling great.

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Customizing Your Bean Bag Chair

I love customizing my bean bag chairs to match the decor of each room. I’ve used different colors, patterns, and even embroidered names on some of them. I’ve found that using fabric from old curtains or upholstery scraps is a great way to repurpose materials and save money.

One of the chairs I made had a personalized name stitched on the back, and it became a favorite in the living room. I’ve also used different types of foam and beads to create different levels of firmness and comfort. I’ve found that using a combination of foam and beads gives the best results, but I’ve also made some chairs that are 100% foam for a more structured feel.

I’ve also experimented with adding extra cushions or using different stitching patterns to give the chair a more decorative look. It’s a great way to make the chair feel more personal and to ensure it fits the style of your home.

Bean Bag Chairs