When creating a 20×20 pillow, you will need a piece of fabric that is slightly larger than the finished pillow size to allow for seams. As a general rule of thumb, you should add an extra 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) to each side for the seam allowance. This means you would cut a square of fabric that is 21 inches by 21 inches. However, if you are planning to have a more substantial seam allowance, piping, or any special details, you will need to adjust the amount of fabric accordingly.
Understanding Fabric Dimensions for a 20×20 Pillow
When making a pillow, it’s important to consider not just the surface that will be visible but also the construction elements that will impact your fabric requirements. Let’s delve deeper into the factors that affect how much fabric you need.
Seam Allowance
The seam allowance is the extra fabric outside the sewing line that helps prevent fraying and allows you to securely stitch the pieces together. For most pillow projects, a 1/2 inch seam allowance is standard. However, if you’re new to sewing, you may want to give yourself a bit more fabric to work with, like a 5/8 inch or a 3/4 inch seam allowance, to make stitching easier. For a 20×20 inch pillow with a 1/2 inch seam allowance on each side, adding an extra inch to both the length and the width is sufficient—you would cut a 21×21 inch piece of fabric.
Pattern Matching and Repeat
If your fabric has a pattern or print you’d like to center on the pillow, you may need additional fabric. This ensures that when you cut the fabric, you’re able to align the design exactly how you want it. Fabric patterns often have a repeat, which is the distance before the pattern starts over again. Larger repeats often require more fabric to match precisely.
Piping and Other Details
Piping, fringe, or flanges can add a sophisticated touch to your pillow. If you plan to add piping around the edges, take into account the extra fabric you’ll need to cover the cording, plus the seam allowance. This could easily add another inch to your fabric dimensions.
Fabric Width
Standard fabric typically comes in widths of 45, 54, or 60 inches. Depending on the width, you can plan out how many 21×21 inch squares you can get from a yard of fabric (which is 36 inches long). With a 45-inch wide fabric, you could cut two squares side by side with a little fabric to spare.
Calculating Fabric for the Back of the Pillow
When creating a pillow, you also need to consider the back. There are different back styles you might select, each with its own fabric requirements.
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Simple Back
If you’re creating a simple back that is the same as the front, just double the amount of fabric you need for the front. Therefore, you would need two pieces that are 21×21 inches each.
Envelope Back
For an envelope back, where the back consists of two overlapping pieces of fabric for easy removal of the pillow insert, you will need more fabric. You’ll typically add half the length of the pillow for one piece and a third for the other, plus seam allowances. This means you would cut one piece that’s approximately 21×28 inches and another that’s 21×24 inches.
Zippered Back
A zippered back will require slightly less additional fabric than an envelope back since you’re only adding an allowance for the zipper. You’ll need just more than one 21×21 inch piece to accommodate the zipper installation.
Practical Considerations When Buying Fabric
Pre-Shrink Your Fabric
Before cutting, consider pre-shrinking your fabric by washing and drying it. This will prevent your finished pillow from becoming distorted if you need to wash it in the future.
Buy Extra
It’s always prudent to purchase a little extra fabric beyond what your calculations suggest. This allows for any mistakes or last-minute design changes.
Types of Fabric
The type of fabric you choose can also impact how easy it is to work with. For a stiffer fabric like upholstery, the dimensions above should suffice. Softer, more pliable fabrics might require interfacing to add stiffness and prevent the fabric from puckering during sewing.
Finishing Thoughts
Creating a pillow involves more than just sewing fabric together. You need to consider seam allowances, fabric patterns, pillow back style, and even the specifics of the fabric you use to ensure a successful project. For a 20×20 inch pillow, starting with a 21×21 inch piece of fabric is a good rule of thumb. Remember to always give yourself a bit of extra fabric for ease of construction and unforeseen adjustments. With these considerations in mind, you’re well on your way to crafting a beautiful and comfortable pillow that adds a personal touch to your space.
