How to Make a Printer Cover: Step-by-Step Guide

Updated 14 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

This guide shows you how to build a simple, dust-proof cover for your printer using basic materials and tools. You’ll measure your printer, cut fabric or vinyl to size, and assemble a cover that keeps dust, spills, and sunlight off your machine. No sewing skills are required if you use iron-on hem tape or adhesive Velcro.

What You’ll Need

Fabric (cotton, canvas, or vinyl) – enough to cover your printer plus 2–3 inches on each side
Measuring tape or ruler
Scissors or rotary cutter
Straight pins or clips
Iron-on hem tape (if not sewing)
Sewing machine or needle and thread (optional)
Velcro strips or elastic cord (for closure)
Iron and ironing board (for hem tape)
Marker or fabric chalk

Step-by-Step

Measure your printer. Place the measuring tape at the widest points: length (front to back), width (side to side), and height (top to bottom). Add 2–3 inches to each dimension for ease and seam allowance. For example, if your printer is 18″ long, 14″ wide, and 8″ tall, your fabric should be at least 21″ x 17″ for the top and sides.
Decide on the cover style. You can make a simple rectangular cover that drapes over the top and hangs down on all four sides, or a fitted cover with side panels. For a basic cover, you only need one large piece of fabric for the top and four side pieces (or one continuous piece if you fold the corners).
Cut the top piece. Using your measurements, cut a rectangle for the top. For the example above, cut a 21″ x 17″ piece. This will be the top surface.
Cut the side pieces. For each side, cut a rectangle that matches the corresponding side length and the height plus 2–3 inches. For the front and back: length + 2″ by height + 2″. For the left and right: width + 2″ by height + 2″. In the example, front/back pieces would be 21″ x 10″ (since height 8″ + 2″), and left/right pieces would be 17″ x 10″.
Pin the pieces together. Place the top piece right side up. Pin the side pieces to the edges, right sides together, aligning the edges. The side pieces will overlap at the corners. You can either miter the corners (fold diagonally) or simply sew straight seams and trim the excess.
Sew or iron the seams. If using a sewing machine, sew a 1/2-inch seam allowance along all edges. If you don’t sew, use iron-on hem tape: place the tape between the seam edges, fold the fabric over, and press with a hot iron according to the tape instructions. This creates a strong bond without stitching.
Finish the bottom edges. Fold the bottom edge of the cover up about 1 inch and press with an iron. Apply hem tape inside the fold and iron again to create a clean, finished edge. This prevents fraying and gives a professional look.
Add a closure. If your printer has paper trays that stick out, you may want an opening. Cut a slit in the front or side of the cover, then attach Velcro strips along the edges so you can open and close it easily. Alternatively, sew elastic cord into the bottom hem to keep the cover snug around the base.
Test fit. Slip the cover over your printer. Adjust the fit – if it’s too tight, let out the seams or add more ease. If it’s too loose, take in the seams slightly. Make sure the cover doesn’t block ventilation slots or paper output.
Final touches. Trim any loose threads, and if you used fabric that frays, apply a small amount of fabric glue along the raw edges. Your cover is ready to use.

Common Mistakes

Not adding enough ease. Forgetting to add 2–3 inches to each dimension results in a cover that’s too tight and may compress buttons or jam paper trays.
Ignoring ventilation. A fully sealed cover can trap heat and cause the printer to overheat. Always leave the back or bottom open, or add a mesh panel.
Using non-breathable material. Vinyl or plastic traps moisture, which can lead to condensation and damage electronics. Cotton or canvas is safer.
Cutting corners on seams. If you use hem tape, make sure the fabric is clean and the iron is hot enough; otherwise, the tape won’t bond and the seams will pull apart.
Blocking the paper path. Making the cover too long at the front can obstruct the output tray. Measure the tray extension and leave it exposed or add a flap.

Tips

Use a waterproof fabric like ripstop nylon if the printer sits near a window or in a humid area.
Add a small label or pocket on the front to hold a pen or sticky notes.
If you want a quick, no-sew option, use adhesive Velcro strips to join the side panels instead of sewing or hem tape.
For a custom fit, make a paper template of the printer’s footprint first, then transfer it to fabric.
Wash the fabric before cutting to prevent shrinkage after you’ve sewn the cover.

Troubleshooting

The cover doesn’t fit over the printer. Double-check your measurements. If it’s too small, you can add fabric panels to the sides or start over with larger dimensions. Remember to account for paper trays and protruding parts.
The seams are coming apart. If using hem tape, re-iron with more pressure and a higher heat setting (within the fabric’s safe range). For sewn seams, reinforce with a second row of stitching.
The fabric frays excessively. Use pinking shears to cut the edges, or apply a liquid fray check along the raw edges.
The cover slides off. Add elastic to the bottom hem or sew Velcro strips at the corners to hold it in place.
The cover traps heat. Cut a large opening in the back or sides and cover it with mesh fabric (like tulle or nylon) for airflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best fabric for a printer cover?

Cotton canvas or a cotton-polyester blend is ideal because it’s breathable, durable, and easy to sew. Avoid heavy vinyl or plastic unless you add ventilation holes.

Do I need to sew, or can I make a no-sew cover?

You can use iron-on hem tape or adhesive Velcro to join fabric pieces without sewing. Both are strong enough for a lightweight cover.

How do I measure for a printer with paper trays that stick out?

Measure the full depth including the extended trays, and add 2–3 inches. Or make a slit in the cover for the tray and use Velcro to keep it closed around the tray.

Can I use a cover on a laser printer?

Yes, but ensure the cover is not airtight. Laser printers generate more heat, so leave the back open or add mesh panels for ventilation.

How do I clean the cover?

Most cotton covers can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and air dried. Check the fabric label; vinyl can be wiped with a damp cloth.

How long does it take to make a printer cover?

With sewing, expect about 1–2 hours. A no-sew version with hem tape can be done in 30–45 minutes.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.