To make a body pillow cover, you will need fabric, measuring tape, scissors, pins, thread, and a sewing machine. Begin by measuring your body pillow and adding a few inches for seam allowances and the closure. Cut your fabric according to these measurements, allowing extra width if you’re adding a zipper or buttons for closure. Then, sew the fabric pieces together on three sides, insert the body pillow, and finish by sewing the opening closed or adding your chosen closure.
Materials and Tools Required
Before you begin making your body pillow cover, gather the following materials and tools:
– Fabric of your choice, approximately 2 to 2.5 yards depending on the size of your body pillow
– Measuring tape
– Scissors or a rotary cutter
– Sewing pins or clips
– Thread that matches your fabric
– Sewing machine
– Iron and ironing board
– Optional: zipper or buttons for a closure method
Choosing Your Fabric
The type of fabric you choose for your body pillow cover matters not only for aesthetics but also for comfort. Cotton is a popular choice due to its breathability and ease of care. Other options like flannel for added warmth, satin for a smooth feel, or minky fabric for a soft, plush texture, are also excellent.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Body Pillow Cover
Here is a detailed guide to creating your own body pillow cover:
Measuring and Cutting Your Fabric
Start by measuring your body pillow. A standard body pillow typically measures 20 by 54 inches. To calculate the fabric required, add at least 1 inch on all sides for the seam allowance. If you wish to add a zipper or create an envelope closure, allow for extra fabric accordingly.
Lay your fabric out on a flat surface, measure and mark your dimensions, and then cut the fabric. For an envelope closure, you will cut three pieces: one piece the length of your pillow plus a 1-inch seam allowance by the width of your pillow plus 6 inches (for the overlap), and two smaller pieces each half the length of your pillow plus a 4-inch overlap and the same width as the first piece.
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Sewing the Pieces Together
After cutting your fabric, the next step is sewing. If you’re using a zipper, sew it in place along the seam of one of the longer edges of the fabric. Otherwise, for an envelope closure, start by hemming one long edge of each of the smaller pieces. Here’s how to proceed:
1. Iron the fabric to remove any wrinkles and to create smooth lines for sewing.
2. Take one of the smaller pieces of fabric, fold one long edge over by about 1/2 inch, iron flat, then fold over another 1/2 inch and iron again. This creates a clean hem.
3. Stitch the hem in place close to the folded edge.
4. Repeat for the other smaller piece.
5. Place the larger piece of fabric right-side-up on a flat surface.
6. Lay the smaller pieces on top of the larger piece, right side down, so the hemmed edges overlap in the middle and all edges are aligned.
7. Pin the pieces in place.
8. Sew all the way around the perimeter with a 1/2 inch seam allowance.
9. Trim any excess material at the corners for a crisper edge.
Adding a Closure
Depending on your preference, you can either sew your body pillow cover closed or add a closure. A zipper is a practical choice since it allows for easy removal of the cover for washing, but buttons or snaps are also great options. For the zipper:
1. Install the zipper along one edge between the two pieces of fabric prior to sewing the perimeter.
2. Pin the zipper in place, ensuring that the teeth are facing towards the inside of the pillow cover.
3. Sew the zipper using a zipper foot on your sewing machine.
Finishing the Body Pillow Cover
To finish the body pillow cover:
1. Turn the cover right-side-out through the opening of the envelope or the unzipped zipper.
2. Iron the seams to create a finished, professional look.
3. Insert your body pillow into the cover, making sure to push it all the way into the corners.
4. Close the zipper or envelope flaps.
Make any final adjustments, such as smoothing out the fabric or readjusting the inner pillow until you are satisfied with the appearance.
Customizing Your Body Pillow Cover
Creating your own body pillow cover is not only practical but it also gives you the opportunity to personalize your sleeping space. Here are a few ideas for enhancing your cover:
Decorative Edges and Embellishments
Consider adding piping around the edges, ruffles, lace, or even decorative trim. You can also use fabric paint or embroidery to add patterns or designs to the cover.
Adjusting for Size and Shape
If your body pillow differs from standard sizes or has a unique shape, adjust the measurements of the fabric accordingly. Remember to account for the shape when sewing the pieces together.
Mix-and-Match Fabrics
For a fun and eclectic look, use different fabrics for the front and back of the body pillow cover. This is also practical, as you can flip the pillow for a different feel or temperature regulation.
Finishing Thoughts
Creating a body pillow cover is a rewarding DIY project that allows you to customize your sleeping experience. Not only do you get a unique and personal product, but you also gain the satisfaction of making something with your own two hands. Choose a fabric that speaks to your comfort and style, and enjoy a restful night with your new custom body pillow cover. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. Each pillow cover you create will bring more experience and possibly spark new creative ideas for your next project. Happy sewing!
