How to Make a Trampoline Spring Cover

Creating a trampoline spring cover is an excellent way to enhance the safety and longevity of your trampoline. It not only protects the springs from debris and weathering but also prevents injuries from exposed springs. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make a trampoline spring cover that fits perfectly and serves its purpose effectively.

Before you start, ensure you have the right materials and tools. You'll need a durable, weather-resistant fabric like polyester or vinyl, a measuring tape, scissors or a rotary cutter, a sewing machine, and some basic sewing supplies like thread, pins, and a seam gauge.

Measuring and Cutting the Fabric

The first step is to measure and cut your fabric accurately. The cover should be wide enough to cover the entire spring pad and long enough to wrap around the trampoline frame.

Measure the width of your trampoline's spring pad. This will be the width of your fabric. To find the length, measure around the trampoline frame, add the width of the spring pad, and add an extra inch or two for overlap and seam allowance.

Cutting the Fabric

Use these measurements to cut your fabric. If you're using a rotary cutter, make sure to use a self-healing mat to protect your work surface. Cut along the grain of the fabric for better strength.

It's a good idea to cut two pieces of fabric, one for the top and one for the bottom of the trampoline. This will ensure that the cover fits snugly and doesn't bunch up.

Sewing the Cover

Now that you have your fabric cut, it's time to sew the cover together. Start by hemming the edges of the fabric to prevent fraying.

Use a seam gauge to measure and mark a hem of about half an inch along all four edges of your fabric. Fold the fabric over along this line, press the seam with an iron, and then sew it in place.

Sewing the Top and Bottom Pieces

Next, you'll sew the top and bottom pieces of the cover together. Lay the top piece right side down and the bottom piece right side up on top of it. Align the edges and pin them in place.

Sew around the edges, leaving the ends open. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to reinforce the seam. When you're done, you should have a long tube of fabric that fits over your trampoline's springs.

Adding Elastic

To keep the cover in place, you'll need to add some elastic. Measure the circumference of the trampoline frame and cut a piece of elastic to match it. Sew the elastic onto the inside of the cover, about an inch from the bottom edge.

Make sure the elastic is taut but not too tight. You want it to fit snugly around the frame but still be able to stretch as needed.

Finishing the Cover

Now that the main part of the cover is sewn, it's time to finish the edges. Fold the raw edges of the opening you left at the ends of the cover over and press them with an iron.

Sew these edges in place, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end. This will give you a clean, finished edge that won't fray.

Your trampoline spring cover is now complete and ready to use. Simply slip it over the springs and secure it with the elastic. It will protect your springs from the elements and keep your trampoline looking great for years to come. Regularly inspect your cover and repair any tears or holes promptly to ensure its longevity. Happy jumping!