Sewing a pillow is a straightforward project that adds a personal touch to your home decor. You’ll need to choose the right fabric, cut it to size, sew around the edges leaving an opening, turn it inside out, stuff it with the right amount of filling, and neatly sew the opening closed. With basic sewing skills, this DIY task can be completed in just a few hours, making for a rewarding and creative experience.
Choosing Your Materials and Tools
Selecting the Right Fabric
When selecting fabric for your pillow, consider both aesthetics and function. Cotton and linen are popular for their durability and ease of care, while velvet or silk add a touch of luxury but may require more delicate handling. The size of your pillow will dictate how much fabric you need. A standard square pillow is 18×18 inches, so a half-yard of standard 45-inch width fabric should suffice for one pillow.
Gathering Essential Tools
In addition to fabric, you will need:
- Sewing machine or needle and thread
- Scissors or a rotary cutter
- Straight pins or fabric clips
- Fabric marker or tailor’s chalk
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Iron and ironing board
- Pillow stuffing or insert
- Seam ripper (just in case of mistakes)
Preparing Your Fabric
Measuring and Cutting
Measure and cut two squares of the fabric to the desired size, adding an extra ½ to 1 inch on each side for seam allowance. If you have a 18×18 inch pillow form, you might cut your fabric to be 19×19 inches for a snug fit with a half-inch seam allowance.
Marking and Pinning
Use your fabric marker or tailor’s chalk to draw the seam allowances on the wrong side of the fabric. Line up the two squares of fabric with the right sides facing each other, and pin around the edges to keep them in place.
Sewing the Pillow Case
Stitching the Seams
Using your sewing machine or needle and thread, stitch around the edges of the pillowcase following the line you marked earlier. Leave an opening on one side large enough to turn the pillowcase right side out and to insert the pillow or stuffing. This is typically about 4-6 inches.
Trimming and Turning
After sewing, trim the corners of the fabric diagonally, being careful not to cut the stitches. This reduces bulk and will help to create a neater corner when turned right side out. Then, turn the pillowcase right side out and use a chopstick or pencil to push out the corners to a nice point. It’s necessary to iron the seams flat for a crisp edge.
Stuffing the Pillow
Choosing Stuffing or Insert
You can choose to use loose stuffing or a pre-made pillow insert. Pillow inserts are easier to use and can offer a more uniform shape, whereas loose stuffing allows for a customized fill.
Filling the Pillow Case
If you’re using a pillow insert, simply insert it into the pillowcase and adjust until it fills out the corners. If using stuffing, gradually fill the pillow to your desired firmness, evenly distributing the material and eliminating lumps.
Closing the Pillow
Hand Sewing the Closure
To close the opening, fold the edges of the fabric inward to align with the already sewn seams, and pin in place. Then, using a needle and thread, sew a slip stitch or ladder stitch by hand to close the opening discreetly. Take small stitches across the opening, alternating between the folded edges, pulling the thread tight to bring the edges together smoothly.
Adding Finishing Touches
Decorative Elements
Consider adding embellishments to your pillow, such as piping, buttons, or appliqués. Piping can be sewn into the seams for a professionally finished look, while buttons or appliqués can be attached after the pillow is stuffed and closed.
Personalization
For a unique touch, personalize your pillow with embroidered details or fabric paint, turning it into a bespoke piece or perhaps a thoughtful gift.
Finishing Thoughts
Creating a handmade pillow is both fulfilling and fun. Not only does it allow you to infuse your personal style into your living space, but it also provides the satisfaction of crafting something by hand. Always remember that with every stitch, you’re adding a bit of your own character and creativity to the piece. Whether you’re a seasoned sewer or a DIY novice, the process can be as simple or as intricate as you choose it to be. Embrace the project, enjoy the creative process, and rest easy on your custom creation.
