Making an envelope pillowcase is a simple and rewarding DIY project that requires minimal sewing skills. To make an envelope pillowcase for a bed, you’ll need fabric, a measuring tape, scissors, pins, an iron, and a sewing machine or needle and thread. Begin by measuring your pillow and cutting the fabric to size, allowing for a hem and the envelope overlap. Hem the edges, then fold the fabric into the envelope shape, with the hemmed edges overlapping in the back. Sew the side seams, turn right side out, and your envelope pillowcase is ready to adorn your bed.
Materials Needed
Before you start, gather the following materials:
- Fabric of your choice
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Straight pins
- Iron and ironing board
- Sewing machine (or needle and thread for hand sewing)
- Optional: fabric marker or chalk
Measuring and Cutting Fabric
Step 1: Measure Your Pillow
To ensure a perfect fit, measure the length and width of your pillow. Add an extra 1 inch (2.5 cm) to each measurement for seam allowances. For the envelope overlap, add an additional 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) to the length.
Step 2: Cut Your Fabric
Once you have your measurements, use them to cut a single piece of fabric. If your fabric has a pattern or print, ensure it’s positioned how you want it on the finished pillowcase.
Our Top 5 Pillow Picks
Updated September 2026MFWW Cervical Contour Memory Foam Pillow
Best for neck pain. A dual-height ergonomic contour cradles your head and supports the neck, for back and side sleepers.
- Contour memory foam
- Dual-height design
- Cool breathable cover
Cooling Shredded Memory Foam Pillows, Standard, 2-Pack
Best value pair. Shredded foam you can adjust to your loft, with a cool-gel feel and no solid-block heat. Two pillows in one box.
- Adjustable shredded foam
- Cool gel
- Hypoallergenic
- Standard 2-pack
Cooling Shredded Memory Foam Pillows, Queen, Set of 4
Best for the whole household. The same adjustable cooling foam in queen size, four to a set, so every bed in the house gets an upgrade.
- Adjustable shredded foam
- Cool gel
- Hypoallergenic
- Queen set of 4
Utopia Bedding Hotel Pillows, Queen, Set of 4
Best hotel-style set. Plush, cooling pillows made to suit side, back and stomach sleepers alike. A safe pick for guest rooms.
- Queen set of 4
- Cooling
- All sleep positions
- Hotel style
Zalmureta Goose Feather & Down Pillows, Queen, Set of 2
Best luxury pick. A three-chamber goose feather and down fill wrapped in a 100% cotton shell, for that five-star-hotel feel at home.
- Goose feather & down
- 3-chamber design
- 100% cotton shell
- Queen 2-pack
Preparing the Fabric
Step 3: Hem the Edges
The short edges of your fabric will become the inside of the envelope closure, so they need to be hemmed to prevent fraying. Fold over 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) of fabric on each of the short edges, iron the fold, then fold again to conceal the raw edge. Iron this fold flat and use pins to hold it in place. Sew a straight stitch along the inside folded edge to create the hem.
Sewing the Pillowcase
Step 4: Fold and Pin the Fabric
After hemming, lay the fabric right side up on a flat surface. Fold the bottom part of the fabric up to the middle, followed by the top part down to overlap the first fold, creating the envelope closure. The right side of the fabric should be on the inside, with the hems overlapping in the center of what will become the backside of the pillowcase. Adjust the folds so the final dimensions match your original pillow measurements.
Step 5: Sew the Side Seams
Pin the fabric in place along the two open sides, then sew a straight stitch down each side with a 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) seam allowance. Be sure to sew past the overlapping pieces to secure the envelope closure.
Step 6: Finish the Pillowcase
Trim any excess threads and corners to reduce bulk. Turn the pillowcase right side out through the envelope closure, and use a pointy object (like a pencil) to push out the corners. Iron the pillowcase to give it a crisp, finished look.
Customization Tips
You can also customize your envelope pillowcase in several ways:
- Adding a border: If you want a decorative border, cut a separate strip of contrasting fabric and sew it onto the right side of the main fabric before folding and sewing the envelope.
- Decorative stitching: Use a decorative stitch around the hem for an extra touch of style.
- Adding buttons or ties: To ensure the envelope closure stays neatly in place, consider adding buttons, snaps, or ties.
Caring for Your Envelope Pillowcase
To keep your pillowcase looking great, wash it according to the fabric’s care instructions. Iron it after washing to remove wrinkles, and it will look as good as new every time you put it on your bed.
Finishing Thoughts
Creating an envelope pillowcase for your bed is not only an enjoyable project but also a practical one. With a touch of your personal style, you can transform the look of your bedroom while providing an easy-to-remove, washable cover for your pillows. This project is suitable for sewing enthusiasts of all levels and offers an excellent opportunity to practice and enhance your sewing skills. Happy crafting!
