How To Make Pillow Shams Easy?

Pillow shams are a fantastic way to add a decorative touch to any bedroom set. At its simplest, making a pillow sham involves cutting fabric to the size of your pillow plus added seam allowances, hemming the edges, and then sewing the fabric pieces together on three sides. For a basic sham, you’ll sew the fabric with the right sides facing together, leaving one short side open, to insert the pillow. However, for a more finished look, you might add an envelope closure, flanges, or other decorative detail on the open end. Now, let’s delve deeper into the process of making pillow shams easily by hand.

Understanding the Basics of Pillow Shams

Before you begin making a pillow sham, it’s essential to understand what they are. Pillow shams are decorative covers for pillows that often match the duvet or comforter in a bedding set. They usually have a tuck flap or an opening where you can insert and remove the pillow. Shams can vary in complexity from simple designs to those with intricate trimmings, ruffles, or flanges.

Materials and Tools Needed

Before you start, gather the following materials and tools:

  • Fabric of your choice (cotton, linen, satin, etc.)
  • Measuring tape
  • Scissors
  • Sewing machine (though hand-sewing is also an option)
  • Thread that matches or complements your fabric
  • Straight pins
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Fabric pencil or chalk for marking
  • Optional: embellishments like lace, piping, or buttons

Measuring and Cutting Your Fabric

Begin by measuring your pillow. Standard pillows usually measure 20×26 inches, queen pillows 20×30 inches, and king pillows 20×36 inches. Add an extra inch to each side for seam allowances. For a flanged sham, you would also add the width of the flange around the perimeter (usually 2 to 3 inches). Cut two pieces of fabric with these dimensions, one for the front of the sham and one for the back.

Creating the Back

For a simple envelope closure, cut the back piece in half horizontally so that you’ll have two pieces that will overlap. Hem one long edge of each of the back pieces by folding the fabric over 1/4 inch, ironing it, folding it over again for a clean edge, and then sewing it in place.

Sewing It All Together

Pin the front and back pieces of the sham together with their right sides facing each other. The back pieces’ hemmed edges should be in the middle, overlapping by several inches to create the envelope closure. Sew around the perimeter of the sham, using your machine’s pressure foot as a guide for the seam allowance.

If adding a decorative flange, you need to sew it onto the front fabric piece before attaching the back pieces. Pin the flange all the way around, baste into place if necessary, and then attach the back pieces as described above.

Adding Decorative Touches

You can also add decorative touches such as ruffles, piping, or lace. These need to be pinned and sewn onto the right side of the front fabric piece before you attach the back.

Finishing Up

Once you’ve sewn the pieces together, trim any excess threads and corners to create a neat finish once turned right side out. Be careful not to cut the stitching. Turn the sham right side out, carefully pushing out the corners, and iron the seams flat for a crisp edge.

Inserting the Pillow

Insert your pillow through the envelope closure. Adjust it to sit comfortably within the sham, ensuring corners are full and the edges are smooth.

Care and Maintenance

To keep your pillow sham looking its best, wash it according to the fabric care instructions. Iron it after washing to reintroduce those sharp lines and clean edges.

For everyday maintenance, give your sham a fluff and smooth any wrinkles with your hands. If your sham has decorative elements like buttons or lace, be gentle during both washing and daily maintenance to avoid damage.

Customization Ideas

There are countless ways to customize pillow shams to suit your style:

  • Experiment with different types of fabric for various textures.
  • Add a trim, such as pom-poms or fringe, for a playful touch.
  • Consider a contrasting thread for an edgy look.
  • Use fabric paint or iron-on decals for personalized designs.
  • Create a patchwork sham for a bohemian or rustic aesthetic.
  • Sewing on a monogram or initial can give it a classic and personalized touch.

Finishing Thoughts

Making your own pillow shams is a rewarding DIY project that allows for personal expression and can be completed with just some basic sewing skills. It’s an easy way to refresh your bedroom decor without committing to a whole new bedding set. Whether you go for a simple design or choose to embellish your shams with extra details, the result is sure to bring satisfaction every time you walk into your bedroom. Happy sewing!

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