
Creating bolster pillow covers is an enjoyable DIY project that allows you to customize your home décor while protecting your pillows. To make a bolster pillow cover, start by measuring the length and circumference of your bolster pillow and cutting your chosen fabric to size, including extra material for seam allowances. Sew the edges together, leaving one end open for inserting the pillow, and then sew a circular piece of fabric on each end. Attach closures such as zippers or buttons for easy removal, and voilà – you have a custom bolster pillow cover!
Materials Needed to Make a Bolster Pillow Cover
Before diving into the creation process, let’s prepare the materials you will need for this project:
- Fabric of choice
- Measuring tape
- Scissors or a rotary cutter
- Sewing machine (or needle and thread if sewing by hand)
- Thread matching your fabric
- Iron and ironing board
- Pins or fabric clips
- Bolster pillow insert or foam
- Zipper or buttons (if you prefer a removable cover)
- Optional: Piping, lace, or other decorative items
Measuring and Cutting Your Fabric
Step 1: Taking Accurate Measurements
The first step is to accurately measure your bolster pillow to ensure a perfect fit for the cover. Measure the length of the pillow from one tip to the other, and then measure the circumference by wrapping the measuring tape around the thickest part of the bolster.
Step 2: Cutting the Fabric
Once you have your measurements, add an inch to both the length and circumference for seam allowances. For example, if your bolster is 20 inches long and 30 inches in circumference, you will cut a piece of fabric that is 21 inches by 31 inches.
For the circular ends, measure the diameter of the pillow’s end, add an inch for seam allowance, and cut out two circles of this size.
Sewing the Body of the Bolster Cover
Step 3: Sewing the Long Edge
Fold the fabric lengthwise, right sides together, aligning the edges. Sew along the long edge using a ½-inch seam allowance. Press the seam open with an iron.
Step 4: Sewing the Ends
Take one of your fabric circles and pin it around one end of the tube you’ve just created, right sides together. Sew around the circle using a ½-inch seam allowance. Repeat this step for the other end of the bolster cover, but remember to leave a gap large enough to insert the bolster pillow or foam afterward. If you’re planning to add piping or other decorative elements, now would be the time to do so along the seam line.
Adding a Closure
To make your bolster cover removable, you can add a zipper or buttons to the open end.
Step 5: Inserting a Zipper
For a zipper, trim the zipper to size, and sew it onto the opening’s edges, ensuring that the zipper teeth are facing inwards. If you’re not confident about adding a zipper, you could sew together the open end by hand once you’ve inserted the pillow, although this will make washing the cover less convenient.
Step 6: Creating a Button Closure
Alternatively, for a button closure, make buttonholes on one edge of the opening and sew buttons onto the other side. Make sure to space buttonholes to correspond with the button placements.
Finishing Touches
After adding your closure, turn the cover right side out. Press the ends and seams for a crisp, clean finish. You can now insert your bolster pillow or foam into the cover through the opening.
Take a moment to fluff up the pillow, evenly distributing the filling, and close the zipper or button up the cover.
With those steps completed, your DIY bolster pillow cover is ready to use. Place it on your sofa, bed, or any cozy corner for added comfort and style.
Finishing Thoughts
Making bolster pillow covers is a straightforward way to breathe new life into your living spaces. By selecting the right fabric and adding personal touches like piping, lace, or unique closures, you can create a piece that perfectly matches your decor and reflects your style. The beauty of DIY is that it allows for customization; whether through fabric choice, embellishments, or size, the finished product is uniquely yours. Put your sewing skills to work and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something both beautiful and functional.