Creating a double flange pillow can elevate the aesthetics of any living space. Essentially, a double flange pillow features a decorative edge or border that extends out from the seam, giving the pillow a more refined finish. To make one, you’ll need fabric for the pillow itself and additional fabric for the flanges, as well as a pillow insert, a sewing machine, thread, scissors, and pins.
Basic steps include cutting the fabric to the desired size, accounting for the pillow insert and extra width for the flanges and seams. Next, sew the flanges to the main fabric pieces, then sew the pieces together, leaving an opening to insert the pillow. Turn the cover right side out, press, insert the pillow, and hand-stitch the opening closed. Now, let’s delve deeper into these steps to guide you through the process.
Materials and Tools Required
Before you start, gather the following materials:
- Fabric of your choice for the pillow cover
- Coordinating fabric for the flanges (can be the same or a complementary fabric)
- Pillow insert (the size you want the finished pillow to be)
- Matching thread
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Straight pins or fabric clips
- Iron and ironing board
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Hand sewing needle
Make sure that your fabrics are pre-washed to account for any potential shrinkage.
Selecting Your Fabric
Your fabric choice will impact the look and feel of your pillow. Consider the room where the pillow will be placed and select a fabric that complements the decor. Upholstery or decorator fabrics are durable choices for pillows, while cotton is easy to work with if you’re a beginner.
Preparing the Fabric
Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
First, measure your pillow insert. Add 1 inch to both the length and width for seam allowances, and then double this size for the flanges. For example, for an 18×18 inch pillow insert, you would cut two fabric squares that are 19×19 inches (including seam allowances) and four flange strips that could each be as wide as you like, often 2-4 inches wide by the length of each pillow side. Remember to include seam allowances on the flange strips as well.
Creating the Flanges
Iron the fabric strips in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. This will give you a sharp edge for the flanges. Then, attach the flange strips to each edge of your main fabric squares. Align the raw edges of the flange with the raw edges of the fabric and pin in place. Sew them to the fabric using a straight stitch and the seam allowance you’ve decided upon, usually around 1/2 inch. Do this for all four sides on both squares of your main fabric.
Sewing the Pillow Together
Attaching Front and Back Pieces
Once your flanges are attached, place the two fabric squares right sides together with the flanges sandwiched between. Pin around the edges, making sure that the flanges don’t get caught in the seam.
Sewing the Seams
Using your sewing machine, stitch around the perimeter of the pillow cover, making sure to leave an opening large enough to insert the pillow. This can be anywhere between 4 to 6 inches, usually at the bottom of the pillow.
Trimming and Turning
After sewing, trim the corners at a diagonal, being careful not to cut into your stitching. This will reduce bulk and allow for sharper corners when you turn the cover right side out. Turn the pillow cover right side out through the opening, and use a pointed but not sharp object like a knitting needle to push out the corners.
Pressing
Iron the pillow cover, carefully pressing the flanges so that they lie flat and crisp. When you reach the opening, fold the raw edges inwards to match the seam lines and press to prepare for closing.
Inserting the Pillow and Finishing
Carefully insert your pillow form into the cover, making sure it fills out each corner. Once the pillow insert is situated, hand stitch the opening closed with a needle and thread using an invisible stitch or ladder stitch to secure the seam.
Finishing Thoughts
Congratulations on completing your double flange pillow! Remember, the beauty of a handcrafted pillow lies in the endless possibilities for customization. Experiment with different fabrics, flange widths, and sizes to create pillows that are truly unique to your personal style and comfort. Whether you’re dressing up a couch, adding charm to a bed, or gifting a friend, homemade pillows bring a touch of warmth and personality to any room. Happy sewing!
