To determine how much fabric you need for a throw pillow, you first need to consider the size of the pillow you want to cover. Typical throw pillows range from 16×16 inches to 24×24 inches. For a standard 18×18 inch pillow, you would need a square of fabric that is at least 20×20 inches to account for seam allowances. If you’re making a pillow cover with a zipper, button closure, or piping, you may need more fabric. Always add extra inches for patterns that need to be matched or if you’re planning to add decorative elements. For most throw pillows, about 0.75 yards (3/4 yard) of 54-inch wide fabric should suffice for a simple pillow cover with no extra embellishments or pattern matching.
Understanding Fabric Dimensions and Pillow Sizes
When creating a throw pillow, the fabric dimensions will ultimately depend on the intended size of your pillow as well as the design elements you plan to incorporate.
Pillow Sizing Guide
Throw pillows come in various sizes, and here’s a quick guide to standard dimensions:
– Small pillows: often around 16×16 inches
– Medium pillows: typically 18×18 inches or 20×20 inches
– Large pillows: can be 24×24 inches or even larger
For each pillow size, you’ll need to cut your fabric larger than the finished pillow size to accommodate sewing seams. Generally, adding an extra 1 to 1.5 inches for the seam allowance to each dimension is recommended. This means that for an 18×18 inch pillow, the cut of fabric should be about 19.5×19.5 inches, assuming a 0.75-inch seam allowance on each side.
Fabric Width and Repeat Patterns
The width of the fabric off the bolt commonly measures 36 inches (for quilting fabrics), 45 inches, 54 inches (often upholstery fabric), or up to 60 inches (for some home decor fabrics). When purchasing fabric, it’s important to consider the width because it impacts how many yards you’ll need.
Moreover, if your fabric has a pattern that needs to be matched at the seams, you need to buy enough fabric to align the design properly. This might mean buying significantly more fabric than the pillow dimensions alone would indicate.
Selecting the Right Amount of Fabric
To select the right amount of fabric for your project, follow these steps:
Step 1: Determine Pillow Size and Seam Allowance
Decide on the pillow size. Account for seam allowances — typically 0.75 to 1 inch per side.
Step 2: Factor in Design Elements
Will your pillow cover have a zipper, button closure, or piping? These elements will require additional fabric. For zippers and button closures, add at least an extra 2 inches so you can create the necessary overlaps and closures. For piping, an extra length of fabric will be needed to cover the cording.
Step 3: Pattern Matching
If working with a pattern that requires matching, like stripes or florals, you might need double the amount of fabric or more. Ensure that the pattern matches at the seams.
Step 4: Calculate Total Fabric Needed
Once these considerations have been factored in, calculate the total amount of fabric needed. Break this down into width and length to understand how much fabric to purchase.
Creating a Throw Pillow
Now that you know how to determine the fabric you need, let’s walk through the process of creating a throw pillow cover.
Choosing Fabric and Notions
Select a fabric that complements your decor and is suitable for pillows. Remember, upholstery fabric is more durable and ideal for items that will be used frequently. Also, gather all the notions you may need such as thread, needles, scissors, a ruler, pins, and potentially a zipper or buttons.
Cutting the Fabric
Use a sharp pair of scissors or a rotary cutter and a mat to get straight, clean cuts. If your fabric has a pattern, take extra care to align the pattern before cutting.
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Pin the pieces together, right sides facing each other, and sew around the edges with the seam allowance you planned for. Leave an opening on one side for stuffing the pillow form or inserting a pillow.
Adding Closures
If you’re adding a zipper or buttons, position them on the opening side and make sure they’re sewed in correctly, so they don’t affect the final look of your pillow.
Finishing Touches
Trim any excess threads, and turn your pillow right side out. Press the seams to give your pillow a crisp, professional finish. Insert the pillow form, then hand stitch the opening closed. And voilà , you have your custom throw pillow!
Finishing Thoughts
Choosing the right amount of fabric for a throw pillow depends on the pillow’s dimensions, the fabric’s width, and any additional design elements you plan to include. Taking time to calculate these aspects carefully will ensure you have enough fabric to complete your project to your satisfaction. Throw pillows are excellent for adding a personal touch to your living spaces, and making them yourself can be both rewarding and fun. Whether you’re updating your home decor or just starting with sewing, understanding these fabric dimensions will set you on the path to creating beautiful, custom pillows.
