Making a 20×20 pillow cover is a manageable DIY project even for those new to sewing. To create a simple pillow cover, you’ll need fabric, a sewing machine, thread, scissors, and a measuring tape or ruler. Initially, cut the fabric to size—typically adding an inch on each side for the seam allowance—resulting in a 22×22 inch square. Then, fold the edges to create the hem, press with an iron if necessary, and sew the sides together, leaving one side open to insert the pillow. Finally, once the pillow is in, sew the last side closed, and your pillow cover is complete!
Materials and Preliminary Preparations
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials and equipment:
- Fabric: Choose a fabric that complements your decor. You will need slightly more than a square yard (assuming a standard width of 44-45 inches for most home decorating fabrics).
- Measuring Tape or Ruler: Essential for exact measurements.
- Sewing Machine: While hand-sewing is possible, a machine will give you a more professional finish.
- Sewing Pins: To hold your fabric in place while you sew.
- Thread: Select a thread color that matches your fabric.
- Scissors: Fabric scissors are best for a clean cut.
- Iron and Ironing Board: To press the fabric for more precise sewing.
- Pillow Insert: A 20×20 pillow insert to fill your cover.
Choosing the Right Fabric
The fabric you choose will significantly influence the durability and feel of your pillow cover. For a decorative pillow, woven fabrics such as cotton, linen, or polyester blends are popular choices. If your pillow will be used frequently, opt for a durable fabric like a heavy cotton or upholstery fabric. Consider the fabric’s care instructions as well, especially if you anticipate needing to wash the pillow cover often.
Cutting the Fabric
Calculating Measurements
For a 20×20 pillow, your fabric pieces will need to account for seam allowances. A standard seam allowance is 1 inch for home projects like this. You’ll need two fabric squares:
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- Cut one square for the front of the pillow: 22×22 inches (20×20 inches for the pillow size plus 1 inch on each side for the seam allowance).
- Cut one square for the back of the pillow, which will be split into two overlapping pieces for the pillow insert. These pieces should each be 22×16 inches. This will give you an overlap of about 10 inches, ensuring that the pillow insert stays inside the cover without peeking out.
Marking and Cutting
Use your measuring tape or ruler and a fabric marker to measure and mark your square on the fabric. Cut along the lines you’ve marked with your scissors. Be as precise as possible for the best fit around your pillow.
Sewing the Pillow Cover
Preparing the Hem
Begin with the two back pieces. They will form a flap, so you need to hem one side on each piece. Fold the edge (along the longer side of each back piece) over 1/2 inch, press with an iron, then fold over again to hide the raw edge. Pin into place. Repeat this for the other back piece.
Sewing the Hem
Stitch along the hem you’ve just pinned to create a clean finish. Do this for both back pieces.
Assembling the Cover
Lay the front piece of the pillow cover right side up. Place the two back pieces on top of it, right side down (so that the right sides of the fabric are facing each other), aligning the outer edges. The hems of the back pieces should overlap in the middle.
Pin everything together around the edges to secure the pieces in place for sewing.
Sewing the Cover Together
Using your sewing machine, sew around the perimeter of the pillow, keeping a 1-inch seam allowance. Make sure to reinforce (backstitch) where the back pieces overlap, as this spot will experience the most stress and pulling.
Finishing the Pillow Cover
After sewing around the edges, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners off near the stitching. This will give you sharper corners when you turn the pillow right side out.
Turn the cover right side out through the overlapping flaps on the back. Poke out the corners to make them as pointed as possible; you can use a blunt tool like a knitting needle or a chopstick for this.
Press the pillow cover with an iron to give it a crisp, professional look.
Inserting the Pillow
Finally, insert your pillow form through the back flaps. It should be snug; this will help the pillow maintain a plump, full shape.
Finishing Thoughts
Your new 20×20 pillow cover should now look as if it was professionally made, adding a personalized touch to your living space. The techniques you’ve learned can be applied to create pillow covers of different sizes or with various types of fabric. Remember, the most crucial part of this project is taking accurate measurements and executing clean, straight seams. With a bit of practice, you can tackle more complicated designs or add embellishments to give your pillow covers an even more customized appearance. Whether for personal use or as thoughtful handmade gifts, your new sewing skills will surely not go to waste. Enjoy your crafting, and sweet dreams with your cozy creations!
