How To Make A Pillow Cover

Fabric scraps piling up? Transform them into stylish pillow covers in an afternoon!

This guide provides a streamlined method for creating custom pillow covers, adding a personal touch to your home decor without breaking the bank.

Essential Materials: Gather Before You Start

Fabric: Choose durable materials like cotton, linen, or upholstery fabric.

Consider pre-washing your fabric to prevent shrinkage later.

Sewing Machine: A basic sewing machine is essential for this project.

Thread: Select a thread color that complements or matches your fabric.

Scissors or Rotary Cutter: Sharp tools are crucial for precise fabric cutting.

Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are key to a well-fitting pillow cover.

Pins: Use pins to hold fabric pieces together before sewing.

Iron and Ironing Board: Ironing seams creates a professional finish.

Pillow Insert: The size of your pillow insert determines the dimensions of your fabric.

Cutting the Fabric: Precision is Paramount

Determine the size of your pillow insert. Add 1 inch to both the length and width for seam allowance.

For an 18x18 inch pillow, cut two fabric squares measuring 19x19 inches.

Ensure your cuts are straight and even for a symmetrical pillow cover.

Sewing the Seams: A Step-by-Step Guide

Place the two fabric squares right sides together. Pin along all four edges.

Using a ½ inch seam allowance, sew around three sides of the square.

Leave one side completely open for inserting the pillow.

Finishing the Edges: Preventing Fraying

Overcast stitch or zigzag stitch around all raw edges. This will prevent the fabric from fraying.

Alternatively, use a serger for a more professional and durable finish.

Trim any excess fabric or loose threads after finishing the edges.

Creating the Closure: Options for Every Skill Level

Envelope Closure: Cut two pieces of fabric that overlap at the back.

Sew the edges of the overlap to create a clean finish, then sew the panel to the front.

Zipper Closure: Insert a zipper into the opening using a zipper foot on your sewing machine.

This provides a secure and invisible closure, a detail of the highest quality.

Button Closure: Create a button placket and sew buttons onto the back of the cover.

Turning and Inserting: The Final Touches

Turn the pillow cover right side out. Use a point turner or blunt object to push out the corners.

Iron the seams flat for a crisp, professional look.

Insert the pillow insert into the cover.

Advanced Techniques: Elevating Your Pillow Cover

Piping: Add piping along the edges for a decorative touch.

Appliqué: Sew fabric shapes or designs onto the pillow cover for personalization.

Quilting: Quilt the fabric before constructing the pillow cover for added texture and dimension.

Embroidery: Personalize the pillow with embroidered designs or monograms.

Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions

Uneven Seams: Use a seam ripper to remove stitches and re-sew with more care.

Puckering: Reduce tension on your sewing machine or try using a walking foot.

Zipper Issues: Ensure the zipper is properly aligned and the zipper foot is correctly positioned.

Care Instructions: Maintaining Your Creation

Check the care instructions for your chosen fabric. Spot clean or hand wash for delicate materials.

Machine wash on a gentle cycle for durable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Air dry or tumble dry on low to prevent shrinkage.

Next Steps: Experiment and Personalize

Try different fabric combinations, embellishments, and closure techniques.

Share your creations online and inspire others to get creative.

Consider taking a sewing class to further develop your skills.