
Adding trim to a pillow can transform an ordinary cushion into a stylish and unique piece for your home décor. Sewing trim on a pillow is a straightforward process that involves attaching your chosen trim to the perimeter of the pillow cover. Here’s a concise guide to help you through the steps: You’ll need to select a trim, measure it to fit your pillow, pin the trim to the pillow cover, and sew it into place using a sewing machine or hand-stitching. It’s crucial to use the right type of needle and thread, and to take care when you come to the corners for a polished finish.
Selecting Your Trim
Before you start, decide on the type of trim you want to use. There’s a variety of options ranging from pompoms and tassels to lace and rickrack. Consider the texture and color of your pillow fabric and the overall look you’re aiming for. Also, ensure the trim is suitable for sewing onto fabric, as some may be designed for glue application only.
Measure Twice, Cut Once
Measure the circumference of your pillow and add an extra inch or two to allow for the seams and any shrinkage. Cut your trim to this length, ensuring to do so accurately so you won’t end up with a gap or having to overlap the ends awkwardly.
Choose the Right Needle and Thread
Use a needle that is suitable for the weight of your fabric — a heavier fabric like velvet will need a stronger needle than a lightweight cotton. The thread should ideally match the color of your trim or fabric to blend seamlessly into your design.
Attaching Trim to the Pillow
Pin the Trim in Place
Pin the trim to the right side of one of your pillow fabric pieces, starting from the middle of one edge. Ensure it is evenly placed, slightly in from the edge to make sure it will be securely caught in the seam. The trim should lay flat against the fabric, and any decorative elements such as tassels should be facing inwards towards the center of the pillow.
Sewing the Trim
Once the trim is pinned, it’s time to sew. If using a sewing machine, select a zipper foot or an appropriate foot that allows you to sew close to the trim. Begin stitching, taking care to remove the pins as you go and keeping the seam allowance consistent. When you reach a corner, lower the needle into the fabric, lift the presser foot, pivot the fabric, lower the presser foot, and continue. This technique will help you navigate the corners with a neat, sharp finish.
Finishing the Ends
When you come to the end of the trim, overlap it slightly with the beginning or cut it to meet precisely, depending on the type of trim. For a cleaner look, you can fold the raw end of the trim under before sewing it down.
Assembling the Pillow
Attaching the Other Side
Once you have the trim in place, lay the other piece of pillow fabric right-side down on top, aligning all edges and ensuring the trim is sandwiched in between. Pin the two pieces of fabric together, making sure to catch the trim as well.
The Final Stitch
Stitch around the perimeter of the pillow, following the same line of stitching used to attach the trim, and leaving an opening on one side for turning and stuffing. Be careful not to sew the trim into the seam where it’s not supposed to be.
Turning and Stuffing
Trim any excess fabric from the corners, being careful not to clip your stitches, to ensure a nice pointed corner once turned right side out. Turn the pillow right side out, poking out the corners with a blunt tool like a chopstick or the end of a paintbrush. Stuff your pillow with filling to the desired firmness.
Closing the Pillow
Once your pillow is stuffed, hand stitch the opening closed using a ladder stitch or an invisible stitch for a seamless look.
Caring for Your Pillow
General Maintenance
Keep in mind that trim may require special care when it comes to washing and maintenance. Always follow the care instructions for both the fabric and the trim to keep your pillow looking its best.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Avoiding Puckering
Puckering can occur if the fabric is not taut or the tension on your sewing machine is not adjusted correctly. Always do a test run with scraps of the fabric and trim to ensure you have the right tension and stitch length before beginning your project.
Dealing with Bulky Corners
Bulky corners can arise if you have particularly thick trim. Reduce bulk by clipping the seam allowance or by choosing a trim that lays flatter against the fabric.
Ensuring Trim Alignment
If your trim is moving around too much while you sew, you can hand baste it in place before machine stitching. This extra step will keep everything aligned perfectly.
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Sewing trim on a pillow is not just a functional task but also an opportunity to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your home. With patience and attention to detail, even a novice seamstress can achieve professional-looking results. Remember to choose the right trim and fabric, measure carefully, and sew patiently. The satisfaction of creating a beautiful, custom pillow that enhances your living space is well worth the effort. When you’re finished, you’ll have a unique decorative piece that reflects your style and adds texture and interest to your room.