Easy-to-Sew Pillows

Add a splash of color and pattern to a room by sewing your own pillows.

It's Sew Easy

Add a pop of pink in any room with these DIY easy-sew pillows.

By: Janell Beals

Materials Needed:

fabric
pillow inserts
brown paper
square or yardstick
tape measure
pencil

thread
needle
scissors
straight pins
sewing machine

Measure Pillow Insert

Measure dimensions of pillow insert.

Measure Pillow Insert for DIY Easy Sew Pillow Case

Take the proper measurements of existing pillows to know how much fabric is necessary for easy sew pillow cases.

Measure Height and Width

If using a rectangle insert, measure both height and width.

Measure the Length and Width for Easy Sew Pillow Case

Take an accurate measurement of the length and width of the pillows you plan to use easy sew pillowcases on.

Create Pattern

Using pillow insert measurements, add two inches to both height and width. Mark measurements on brown paper with a square to create pattern. Cut out pattern.

Draw Fabric Pattern for Easy Sew Pillow

Using pillow insert measurements, add two inches to both height and width. Mark measurements on brown paper with a square to create pattern. Cut out pattern.

Choose Pattern Placement

If using a patterned fabric, determine print placement by outlining finished shape of pillow on fabric.

Measure Easy Sew Pillow Fabric For Size and Placement

Use rulers and measuring tape to determine how much fabric is needed to create easy sew pillows. If using a patterned fabric, determine print placement by outlining finished shape of pillow on fabric.

Cut Pillow Fronts

Place pattern on fabric, lining up pattern to fabric grain. Cut around edges of pattern.

Place Pattern on Fabric and Cut for Easy Sew Pillows

Place pattern on fabric, lining up pattern to fabric grain. Cut the desired amount for easy sew pillows.

Cut Pillow Back

Place same pattern on fabric selected for pillow backs, lining up pattern to fabric grain. Cut around edges of pattern. Tip: Use coordinating fabrics for pillow front and back for an interesting design.

Use Pattern to Cut Fabric for Back of Easy Sew Pillows

Place same pattern on fabric selected for pillow backs, lining up pattern to fabric grain. Use a pattern to guide you as you cut the fabric for easy sew pillows. Tip: Use coordinating fabrics for pillow front and back for an interesting design.

Pin Fabric Edges

Lay fabric front over fabric back, right sides together. Pin edges.

Pin Easy Sew Pillow Material

Use straight pins to attach the two types of fabric for use in easy sew pillows.

Sew Pillow Pieces Together

Sew pillow pieces together using one-inch seam allowance. Leave approximately five-inch opening to insert pillow on bottom edge.

Use Sewing Machine to Stitch Fabric Pieces Together

Use a sewing machine to stitch together the fabric for the easy sew pillows. Sew pillow pieces together using one-inch seam allowance. Leave approximately five-inch opening to insert pillow on bottom edge

Trim Edges

Trim fabric edges to 1/2 inch, trimming first layer slightly more than second. Trim close to corners for a clean turned corner. Tip: Trimming seams to varying widths will help make seams less noticeable on turned pillow.

Trim Fabric Edges For DIY Easy-To-Sew Pillow

Trim fabric edges to 1/2 inch, trimming first layer slightly more than second. Trim close to corners for a clean turned corner. Tip: Trimming seams to varying widths will help make seams less noticeable on turned pillow.

Turn Fabric and Press Edges

Turn fabric right side out and press edges.

Iron Fabric of Easy Sew Pillows

Turn fabric right side out and use an iron to smooth out the fabric of easy sew pillows for a crisp look.

Insert Pillow

Push pillow insert into pillow casing and adjust placement.

Insert Pillow Into Open Side Of DIY Easy-To-Sew Pillow Case

After sewing three of the four sides of the pillow case, stuff the pillow insert or pillow stuffing inside and ensure that it fits properly.

Stitch Opening Closed

Sew opening closed using needle and thread.

Sew Final Stitches in the Opening of the DIY Easy Sew Pillow

Once pillow is secure inside new case, use a needle and thread to stitch up the rest of the DIY pillow case.

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