It's a cover-up

Revamped Lillberg rocks in Melbourne

Every Friday we try to feature one of the many, many photos sent in from our satisfied, or should we say proud, Bemz customers, right here on It's a Cover Up. We know all too well how daunting the decision making process can be when you're trying to decide on a colour or pattern for a whole sofa cover, based on a small fabric swatch. That's we try to get as many different styles, colours and patterns up on our list of testimonials as possible. Please take a look through them if you're looking for inspiration or ideas. Or if, like us, you simply love having a peek at other people's homes.

This one comes straight to us from Nelly of Australia. She went with a cover in Unbleached Belgian Linen Blend for her Lillberg rocking chair and we think the result is fab.

Here’s what Nelly had to say: My new slip cover arrived today & I just have to say that I LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! I will definitely shop with you again!

We're happy that you're happy Nelly. Your new linen cover adds a relaxed elegance to your rocking chair and slots right in with the natural palette of the room. A job well done!

If you have a Bemz cover, why not inspire us? Send a photo to us at blog[at]bemz.com or upload it directly onto our Facebook page.

Show your Tomelilla some love: 10% limited offer

At Bemz you will find slipcovers for cherished favourites that are no longer sold at Ikea, including the tried and true Tomelilla. Take this opportunity to give your Tomelilla sofa, armchair or footstool a new style for summer! Buy a Bemz cover for your Tomelilla now and get 10% off until May 14, 2013.

Bemz cover for Tomelilla sofa in Light Denim Blue Belgian Linen Blend and Bemz cushion cover in Caffe Latte True Rose

The classic, rounded design of the Tomelilla is practically an icon. The Tomelilla series, sold between 1993 and 2005, is an Ikea favourite that has stood the test of time. We, along with many of our customers, are very fond of this range of comfortable and cosy pieces made for some seriously lazy lounging.

Bemz cover for Tomelilla sofa in Candy Pink Panama Cotton

The sofa is deep and generous with loose back cushions and set on casters, a very practical detail when rearranging furniture or moving! At Bemz you can buy extra slipcovers (60x60 cm) for the sofa’s back cushions, allowing you to mix and match colours and patterns according to your own taste.

Bemz cover for Tomelilla in Sand Beige Stockholm Stripe

With three different styles and over 180 different fabrics to choose from you can rest assured that a slipcover from Bemz will give your favourite sofa or armchair a unique look. Each of the three different slipcover styles available at Bemz ensures your Tomelilla sofa, armchair or footstool will be completely transformed.

Bemz cover for Tomelilla armchair in Red Fandango by Marimekko for the Bemz Designer Collection

Regular fit is our most popular style and is available in 160 different colours and patterns. The design is cut to the precise dimensions of the furniture and has the appearance of an upholstered sofa or chair.

Bemz cover for Tomelilla armchair in Loose Fit Country Style Soft White Rosendal Pure Washed Linen

Loose Fit Country style slipcovers are available in 100% prewashed linen from Belgium, including our exclusive Rosendal Pure Washed Linen. The slightly looser fit, armrest covers and ties, give this style of cover a vintage, romantic feel that completely changes the look of the furniture.

Tomelilla in an Unbleached Bemz Basiq slipcover, with ties instead of zippers

Basiq is our price-conscious option. This style of cover offers a somewhat looser, more relaxed fit, without piping, and the zippers have been replaced by ties.

Tomelilla armchair and Tomelilla Fotö footstool in Aqua Praliini Printed Cotton

The Tomelilla series includes a 2-seat sofa, a 3-seat sofa, a sofa bed, an armchair with a high back, an armchair with a low back and the “Fotö” footstool. These are now discontinued at Ikea, but you can try to find second-hand models on sites like E-bay.com (Germany, USA), Blocket.se (Sweden), Leboncoin.fr (France), Gumtree (UK), Craigslist (USA) and others. Throw on a cover from Bemz and hey presto you have a designer sofa without the designer price tag.

Ekskog gets quality new life in Finland

This week's testimonial comes from Marika of Finland who chose a Bemz cover in Sand Beige Panama Cotton for her Ekeskog sofa, a discontinued Ikea model.

"Thanks again for the Ekeskog slip covers which we received this week," wrote Marika. "They gave new life to our old sofa! I'm specially amazed about the great quality in the fabric but also in the zippers! The original Ikea zippers of the Ekeskog sofa covers were of poor quality - two of them were broken after washing the covers. And then we found out that Ikea does not sell the Ekeskog sofa nor the covers anymore... We thought that we need to buy a new sofa as the covers could not be fixed. That's why I was happy to run into your company's webpage and to find out that you make the covers! Thanks to you and good luck to your great company! :)"

Thank you right back Marika for sharing your home with us. Your pictures will provide inspiration to all those like-minded, design savvy Ikea sofa owners looking for a smart way to upcycle their old favourites.

If you have a Bemz cover, why not share it too? Send it along to us at bemz [at] blog [dot] com or upload it directly to our Facebook page.

Colourful ways to lift the spirits

Colours can affect mood in many ways, so why not take this into account when decorating your home? Here are some easy and cost-effective tips for adding colour - using textiles - from the Bemz design team.

Bemz covers for Nikkala sofa in Sun Yellow Panama Cotton and Karlstad armchair in Candy Pink/Absolute White Stockholm Stripe

Identify the purpose of the room and choose the colour that will enhance the desired result: reds and yellows to activate and energise, greens and blues to relax and soothe.

Bemz covers for Henriksdal chairs, medium long skirt, in Rose Tegnér Melange. and for Nils chair in Black Classic Ruta, for Klappsta armchairs in Silver Grey Tegnér Melange, Rose Tegnér Melange

Bemz Daybed covers in Candy Pink & Absolute White Stockholm Stripe and Candy Pink Panama Cotton, with a mix of Bemz cushion covers and a Bemz cover for Henriksdal chair long in Sun Yellow

Ensure each day starts on a positive note by injecting a little year round sunshine into your kitchen with energising and warm Mandarin Orange or Sun Yellow chair covers from Bemz.

Bemz cover for Nils chair in Burnt Orange Tegnér Melange and Real Red Tegnér Melange

Or turn up the heat using textured fabrics, like Tegnér Melange. They’ll boost well-being, without sacrificing on style and sophistication.

Bemz bedspread in Loose fit style, Bemz cover for Abelvär headboard and Bemz Loose fit Urban bed skirt, all in Absolute White Rosendal Pure Washed Linen from Bemz

Always opt for tranquil, soothing colours for the bedroom. Combine medium blues with lavenders and greens for optimum effect.

A bedskirt in Lavender Rosendal Pure Washed Linen paired with a Loose Fit bedspread in Absolute White Rosendal Pure Washed Linen will create the perfect oasis required to keep your spirits up while mind and body are rested.

Contrasting pillow covers in Dusty Rose Gustavian Flowers, Chocolate Brown New Baroque and Tea Green Belgian Linen blend will strike the right balance and give the room a personal note.

Bemz bedspread. Loose Fit, in Medium Grey Rosendal Pure Washed Linen

Neutrals are synonymous with tranquillity. Vary textures as well as light and dark tones to optimise impact.

A Sand Beige sofa cover from Bemz combines comfort and class in one effortless brushstroke. Pair it with a plush rug, plenty of natural wood and cushion covers in True Blue and Dark Denim Blue and Cobalt Brera Rigato from Bemz for the requisite pop of colour to chase those dark clouds from your mind.

For more inspiration on how to use colour in your home, visit www.bemz.com.

Kivik, Henrik & Stockholm: Full home makeover in Toronto

On Fridays, we generally share one of the many photos sent in from our satisfied, or should we say proud, Bemz customers, who open the doors to their homes and inspire others.

This week's testimonial, our second this month from Canada, is a real before and after treat. Indeed, as you can see below, Julia of Canada pulled out all the stops in her recent full home makeover, giving her IKEA furniture new life in a variety of products from Bemz.

First, she upcycled her rather tired Kivik sofa in a new, luxurious Graphite Grey Chenille Textured Cotton cover from Bemz, adding a touch of contemporary chic and warm texture to the room. The colour looks great with Julia's gorgeous rug and makes her fab artwork pop.

Next, she gave her Stockholm easy chairs some love in Crimson Red Raffia Textured Cotton, adding a bright injection of colour to the room.

Then she tackled her dining area, revamping her Henrik chairs in Sand Beige Tegnér Melange. She also upgraded an Ängby Armchair, not shown in the photo, in a Zinc Grey Tegnér Melange.

Well done Julia. The results are fab, lifting your home to a whole new level of chic!

If you have a Bemz cover, share it! Send us a photo at blog[at]bemz.com or upload it onto our Facebook page.

Trend Alert: New Nordic Pastels + new colours & 10% off

Update your interior décor with the latest colour trend: New Nordic Pastels - a modern take on summer's favourite hues. To help you get this look, Bemz is launching two new colours in our popular Panama Cotton fabric; Peach and Aqua, both essential for creating this unique style, and available for all Bemz covers. Starting today, April 25, you can get 10% off the New Nordic Pastels palette until May 2, 2013. So kick start summer by adding some easy Nordic elegance to your home with this bright, cool palette!

Bemz covers for Söderhamn sofa and armchair in Peach and PS chair in Sand Beige

The modern New Nordic palette is a move away from sugary pastels, focusing instead on sublime bright shades, colour-blocked with stark white, neutral beige and refreshing hints of neon.

Bemz covers for Nils chairs in Peach and Aqua

Colour-blocking, combining two or more larger blocks of solid colour, is the key to this look. Think serene Vanilla Yellow, Peach and Aqua colour-blocked with neutral Absolute White, Sand Beige and Silver Grey. Accents of primary colours True Blue and Grass Green, as well as refreshing hints of neon give the necessary playful touch.

Bemz cover for Skruvsta chair in Grass Green

A few examples of typical combinations are Vanilla Yellow with Silver Grey, Peach with Sand Beige and Aqua, and Peach with Vanilla Yellow, all set against a cool white base. Dashes of bright colour adds visual depth and interest to the otherwise minimalist interior.

Bemz covers for Tylösand sofa in Absolute White and for PS armchairs in Sand Beige and Vanilla Yellow Belgian Linen Blend

New Nordic interiors are free from clutter. The living room’s clean lines are cool to the eye, with textiles adding warmth and comfort.

Bemz covers Söderhamn sofa in Peach and Bemz Artist Series cushion covers in Silver Grey Vallsta and Yellow Fiskis

Furniture is simple and stylish, in materials like natural, unfinished wood. A sleek Söderhamn sofa with a Bemz cover in new Peach paired with accent cushion covers from the Bemz Artist Series collection to add a pop of colour.

Bemz bedspread in Absolute White and Bemz cover for Klippan footstool in Aqua, with Bemz Artist Series cushion covers.

Textiles are where the New Nordic look really comes into its own, making colour-blocking easy and affordable. Use Bemz sofa covers and chair covers in modern New Nordic Pastels as a base, while bringing the look together with cushion covers in neon digital print or trendy dip dye or ombré accents.

For more information on New Nordic Pastels visit Bemz.com.

Karlstad story unfolds in Quebec

Caroline of Canada sent in this fab visual story of her sofa revamp with a Bemz cover. She went with a rich Fuchsia Tegnér Melange Textured Cotton for her Karlstad Sofa from IKEA.

First, here's what Caroline has to say: Here is my new Karlstad ! I'm in love with the colour and the quality of the fabric ! I'm not finished with my decorations, but the most attractive piece is my sofa thanks to Bemz ! * I bought the Karlstad mid century legs on Etsy. Thank you so much!

Thank you right back Caroline for sharing your wonderful story with us. We think your décor looks pretty good as is! So for those who are curious about how Caroline's story unfolded from start to finish - scroll down...

wait for it...

wait for it...

and ta da!

The final results are stunning. Nice artwork to boot! We appreciate the peak inside your home Caroline.

If you have a Bemz cover, why not share your story to inspire others? Send a photo along to us at bemz [at] blog [dot] com or upload it directly to our Facebook page.

Top Tips: South American dinner party with pizazz

With spring here and the weather warming up, it's time to spice up your home entertaining with a South American dinner party. Follow these five easy tips from the Bemz design team for an unforgettable fiesta - beyond the food.

Bemz cover for Nils stools in Jet Black Stockholm Stripe, Light Denim Blue Belgian Linen Blend and Bemz fabric per metre in Mandarin Orange Gotland Stripe, Deep Navy Blue Herbarium, design Stig Lindberg for the Bemz Desginer Collection

1) Try new recipes: According to food trends for 2013, sustainability and local ingredients have not lost their mojo. Menus are venturing to South America to include feisty flavours from Brazil, Argentina and Peru. With its roots in simple home cooking, South American cuisine is the perfect choice to serve at a dinner party. Don’t be scared to try a trendy variations on the popular seafood dish, ceviche, or to organise an Argentine asado (an Argentinian BBQ).

Bemz fabric per metre in Mandarin Orange Gotland Stripe and Fuchsia Panama Cotton (placemats)

2) Staging your entertaining is just as important as getting the food right – as well as great fun. Decorate with colours and patterns that are a feast for the eye.

Bemz covers for Nils armchair in Lemongrass Flamingo Park, Nils chair in Black/White Coconut Grove, Henriksdal chair in Fuchsia Flamingo Park, all designed by Designers Guild, and Henriksdal chair in Fuchsia Panama Cotton

Use festive, colourful streamers wherever you can, and a tablecloth in bold strong colours and patterns for extra pizazz. If you have potted plants around the house, collect them in your entertaining area to get a (however slight) feeling of tropical beauty.

Daybed in Black/White Coconut Grove by Designers Guild. Cushions in Sun Yellow and Soft White also from Bemz

3) Set the mood. Play the sultry tones of Brazilian Seu Jorge or some salsa by the Latin Brothers. And don't forget the flowers and candles.

Bemz Daybed covers in Candy Pink & Absolute White Stockholm Stripe and Candy Pink Panama Cotton, with a mix of Bemz cushion covers and a Bemz cover for Henriksdal chair long in Sun Yellow

4) Chill out. While cooking and serving your meal, stay relaxed: South American food is hearty, flavoursome and doesn't call for perfectionism. Focus on enjoying your guests instead.

Bemz cover for Kramfors sofa in Cobalt Espanola Way, design Designers Guild and Klippan footstool in True Blue

5) The clean up: Since all Bemz covers are durable, stain-protected and machine washable, you don’t have to worry if you splash a bit of Chilean wine or spill chimichurri sauce on them.

Bemz covers in a variety of Designers Guild fabrics

Visit our website for more ideas about how Bemz can help you style your next dinner party.¡Salud!

Henriksdal in bloom: Marimekko en France

Continuing our theme of chair covers to celebrate spring, this week’s example of how simple slipcovers from Bemz can really personalise a space comes from Jenny of France. She chose Red Unikko Printed Cotton covers by Marimekko from the Bemz Designer collection for her Henriksdal chairs, in regular fit.

And here's what Jenny has to say (translated):

Here's a photo of our living room with your pretty chair covers. Hope you enjoy the photo.

Yes Jenny, we just love it - so inspiring. Those giant blooms really claim centre stage making a perfect statement against an otherwise neutral background. They also pick up the colour in your artwork very well. Beautiful choice! Merci bien for opening up your home to us.

Send your photos of your Bemz cover to us at blog [at] bemz [dot] com or upload it to our Facebook page.

Designer sofa for less than a fifth of the price

Don't you just love this chic Baseline sofa in Roy Beige from Eilersen with its classic clean lines and uncomplicated elegance? Named after its expression, it's an obvious starter piece for any stylish interior. Yes, it's a knock out. But so is the hefty price tag of £3,982.

Instead, check out this more affordable solution from Bemz.

It's a simple as choosing a contemporary number from our favourite Swedish furniture giant, say a Tylösand, which will set you back about £150 second hand. Order your designer cover from Bemz in Sand Beige Tegnér Melange, that'll be another £439 - and revamp the cushions in Sand Beige Tegnér Melange covers from Bemz too - at £25 each (Bemz prices include shipping). Hey presto, you've created a similar sleek look for £689. That's less than a fifth of the price. Use the £3,293 left over for something else fun. Happy shopping!