To make a throw pillow with a zipper, you’ll need fabric, a zipper that is the width of your pillow minus two inches, scissors, pins, a sewing machine, and pillow form or stuffing. Begin by cutting two pieces of fabric to the size of your pillow plus a 1-inch seam allowance. Attach the zipper to one side of both fabric pieces, right sides together, and stitch using a zipper foot. Sew the other three sides with right sides together, turn right side out, insert the pillow form, and zip closed. Below, we’ll go through each step in more detail to help you create a beautiful, custom throw pillow.
Materials and Tools Needed
The success of any project starts with the right materials and tools. For making a throw pillow with a zipper, gather the following items before you begin:
- Fabric of your choice (size depends on your pillow dimensions plus seam allowance)
- Matching thread
- Zipper, approximately 1-2 inches shorter than the width of your pillow
- Sewing scissors
- Straight pins or wonder clips
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Zipper Foot for your sewing machine
- Sewing machine
- Pillow form or stuffing
- Iron and ironing board (optional, but helpful)
Choosing the Right Fabric and Zipper
Selecting the right fabric and zipper is crucial for the end result. The fabric should be durable and suitable for the intended use of the pillow. Cotton, linen, and velvet are popular choices. As for the zipper, you should aim for one that blends with the fabric color and is long enough to create an opening for easy insert/removal of the pillow form, but short enough to be concealed within the seam.
Preparing the Fabric
Before you start sewing, pre-wash the fabric to prevent shrinkage after the pillow is made. Iron the fabric to remove any wrinkles, ensuring a smooth surface to work with.
Cutting the Fabric
Measure and cut the two pieces of fabric according to the size of your pillow insert plus seam allowances. For most throw pillows, adding 1 inch to both length and width should suffice to cover your pillow insert properly.
Attaching the Zipper
Attaching a zipper might be daunting if you’re new to sewing, but with some patience, it’s quite doable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:
Positioning the Zipper
Lay one piece of fabric right side up, and place the zipper face down along the edge of the fabric where you want the bottom of the pillow to be. The zipper should be centered with the fabric’s edge.
Top Pillows Recommended By GoodSleepHub.com
- Queen Pillows Set of 2- Includes two queen size gusset bed pillows (18 x 26 inches) designed to provide balanced softness and support for comfortable sleep. A great fit for beds, guest rooms, or dorms...
- SUPERIOR COMFORT - Queen pillows have a 250 thread count Cotton Cover filled with a soft 100% Polyester Fill. One of the best first apartment or new home essentials gift for bedroom, guest bed room,...
- Bed pillow offers exceptional comfort for a better night's sleep
- REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR SLEEP WITH THE INNOVATIVE HOLLOW CONCAVE DESIGN - Tired of waking up with neck pain and discomfort? Look no further! By combining the benefits of a traditional bed pillow and a...
Sewing the First Side of the Zipper
Pin the zipper to the fabric and use a zipper foot on your sewing machine to sew close to the zipper teeth. Stop sewing just before the zipper pull.
Attaching the Second Piece of Fabric
Take the second piece of fabric and lay it right side down, aligning it with the first piece of fabric and the zipper in between them. Pin the second side of the zipper to the second fabric piece and sew, just like you did with the first side.
Completing the Zipper Attachment
Once both sides are attached, fold the fabric right side out, and iron flat along the zipper to give a clean finish. Topstitch if desired for a more professional look.
Sewing the Pillow
With the zipper in place, you’re ready to sew the pillow together. However, make sure the zipper is slightly open before you proceed — otherwise, you’ll have trouble turning the pillow right side out.
Sewing the Remaining Sides
Pin the remaining three sides of your pillow, making sure to match up all edges. Sew around these three sides with a straight stitch, remembering to backstitch at the start and end to secure the seams.
Trimming Corners and Seams
To reduce bulk and to ensure nice, sharp corners, trim the excess fabric at each corner, being careful not to cut your stitches.
Turning Right Side Out and Ironing
Turn your pillowcase right side out through the zipper opening. Use a pointed object, like a pencil, to push out the corners. Iron the seams flat for a neat finish.
Finishing the Pillow
Insert your pillow form through the zipper opening and fluff it to ensure it fills out the corners. If you’re using loose stuffing, gradually fill the pillow to the desired firmness, making sure the filling is evenly distributed.
Closing the Zipper
Once the pillow form is nicely fitted inside the cover, zip it closed. Adjust the cover as needed to ensure it sits neatly on the pillow form.
Personalizing Your Throw Pillow
Consider adding embellishments like piping, fringe, or buttons for a personalized touch. These elements can be planned and added during the pillow construction process or attached afterward.
Finishing Thoughts
Crafting a throw pillow with a zipper may seem complex at first glance, but by breaking the process down into manageable steps, you’ll find it’s quite straightforward. With a bit of time and patience, you can create custom pillows to match your home decor or make thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Remember to choose fabric and zippers that complement each other, take your time with each step, and soon you’ll have a beautiful home accessory that offers both comfort and style.
