Creating your own DIY pillow cover pattern is a fun and rewarding project that allows you to add a personal touch to your home décor. Whether you’re looking to refresh your living space, repurpose old fabric, or explore a creative hobby, designing a custom pillow cover is an easy and affordable way to express your style.
This guide on How to create a DIY pillow cover pattern will take you through the basics of crafting a unique pillow cover pattern, from selecting materials to completing your finished piece.
What is a Pillow Cover?
A pillow cover is a removable case that encloses a pillow, providing protection and decoration. It can be made from various types of fabric, including cotton, linen, velvet, or even repurposed materials such as old clothing or bedsheets.
It is different from a pillowcase, which is typically made of the same material as the sheets and permanently stays on the pillow. A pillow cover offers versatility in design and allows for easy cleaning, making it a perfect addition to any home.
Why Create Your Own DIY Pillow Cover Pattern?
There are many benefits to creating your own DIY pillow cover pattern. Not only does it allow you to express your creativity and style, but it also allows you to customize the size, color, and design of your pillow cover according to your preferences. Additionally, making your own pillow cover is often more cost-effective than purchasing one from a store and gives you the opportunity to repurpose old fabrics or materials.
Materials Needed
To create your DIY pillow cover pattern, you will need the following materials:
- Fabric of Your Choice
- Scissors
- Measuring Tape or Ruler
- Sewing Machine (or Needle and Thread if Sewing by Hand)
- Pins or Fabric Clips
- Pillow Insert or Existing Pillow to Measure Against
8 Steps on How to Create a Diy Pillow Cover Pattern:
Step 1: Measure Your Pillow
Begin by measuring the dimensions of your pillow or pillow insert to ensure your cover will fit perfectly. Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the width and height of the pillow from edge to edge. Be sure to measure as accurately as possible and note down the dimensions.
If the pillow is thick or fluffy, add a half-inch to one-inch to your measurements to account for its fullness. These measurements will be the basis for cutting your fabric, so double-check them before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Calculate Fabric Measurements
To determine the fabric measurements needed for your pillow cover, you will need to add an extra inch to the width and length of your pillow measurements. This additional inch allows for seam allowances and creates a snug fit for your pillow.
For example, if your pillow measures 18 inches by 18 inches, you will need to cut a square of fabric measuring 19 inches by 19 inches.
Step 3: Choose Your Fabric
Select a fabric that suits your style and complements the existing décor in the room where the pillow will be placed. Consider factors such as color, pattern, and texture when choosing your fabric. You can also opt to use multiple fabrics for a more unique design, such as a front and back panel made of different materials.
You will need to ensure that the fabric is durable and machine washable if you plan on using the pillow cover regularly.
Step 4: Cut Out Your Fabric
Using your measurements, cut out a square or rectangle of fabric according to the size needed for your pillow cover. Use scissors or a rotary cutter and cutting mat for precise cuts.
If you are using multiple fabrics, be sure to label each piece accordingly with front and back designations to avoid confusion later on.
Step 5: Pin or Clip the Edges
Once you have cut out your fabric pieces, align the edges with the right sides of the fabric facing each other. Use pins or fabric clips to secure the edges in place, ensuring the fabric pieces remain aligned while sewing. Focus on pinning along the edges where you plan to sew, leaving an opening on one side for inserting the pillow later.
Be careful not to overstretch or distort the fabric while pinning, as this can affect the final shape of your pillow cover. Taking your time to pin correctly will make the sewing process smoother and ensure a clean, professional finish.
Step 6: Sew the Edges
Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, sew along the edges you have pinned at a quarter-inch seam allowance. Be sure to backstitch at the start and end of your sewing to secure the stitches.
When approaching corners, leave the needle in the fabric and lift the presser foot to pivot before continuing to sew. This will help create sharp corners and prevent any gaps or puckering in your seams.
Step 7: Trim Excess Fabric
After sewing the edges of your pillow cover, carefully trim any excess fabric to reduce bulk and ensure a clean finish. Use a pair of sharp scissors to cut close to the seam, leaving about an eighth of an inch of fabric beyond the stitching.
If your pillow cover has corners, clip the fabric diagonally at the corners without cutting through the stitching. This will help reduce bulk when you turn the cover right-side out and create sharp, crisp corners. Be sure to take your time during this step to avoid accidentally cutting into the seams you just sewed.
Step 8: Turn Right-Side Out and Insert Pillow
Once you have trimmed the edges, turn your pillow cover right-side out through the opening you left while sewing. Use a blunt object, such as a chopstick or pencil, to gently push out the corners for a neater finish.
Next, insert your pillow into the cover and fluff it up to fill in any gaps. Finally, hand-sew or use a ladder stitch to close the opening.
Following these steps on How to create a DIY pillow cover pattern will result in a beautiful, custom-made pillow cover that is sure to add a personal touch to your home décor. Experiment with different fabrics, patterns, and sizes to create a variety of unique pillow covers for every room in your home. Happy sewing!
Additional Tips
- If using multiple fabrics, consider using coordinating or contrasting colors for added visual interest.
- Experiment with different patterns, such as stripes or geometric shapes, to create a more dynamic design.
- To add extra texture to your pillow cover, consider using different fabric textures such as velvet, linen, or faux fur.
- Use leftover scraps of fabric from previous projects to create patchwork designs for a one-of-a-kind look.
- Consider adding additional details like pom-pom trim or embroidery for added embellishment. Overall, have fun and get creative with your DIY pillow cover pattern! So go ahead and try making your own unique pillow covers today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I Use an Existing Pillow to Measure Against Instead of a Pillow Insert?
A1: Yes, you can use an existing pillow as long as it is the same size and shape as the one you want to cover. Just be sure to measure it accurately and add seam allowances accordingly.
Q2: Can I Use a Sewing Machine for This Project?
A2: Yes, you can use a sewing machine for this project as long as you have basic sewing skills and know how to operate a sewing machine. However, if you prefer hand-sewing, that is also an option.
Q3: Can I Wash My DIY Pillow Cover?
A3: It depends on the fabric you choose. Be sure to select a durable and machine-washable fabric if you plan on using the pillow cover regularly. If your fabric is not machine-washable, spot cleaning or dry cleaning may be necessary.
Q4: How Do I Decide What Size of Fabric to Cut for My Pillow Cover?
A4: When determining the fabric size, add an extra inch to both the length and width of your pillow measurements. This will allow for seam allowances and a snug fit for your pillow. For example, if your pillow measures 18 inches by 18 inches, you will need to cut a square of fabric that is 19 inches by 19 inches. This will result in a finished cover that fits snugly over your pillow without being too tight. However, if you prefer a looser fit, add an extra two inches to your measurements instead.
Conclusion
Creating your own DIY pillow cover pattern is a fun and cost-effective way to add personality and style to your home decor. By following these simple steps on How to create a DIY pillow cover pattern, you can create custom-made covers for all your pillows and change them up whenever you want a new look.
With so many fabric options to choose from, the possibilities are endless. So why not give it a try and add your own personal touch to your living space? Happy sewing!
Huston Douthit is a distinguished figure in the world of furniture design, with a decade of expertise creating innovative and sustainable furniture solutions. His professional focus lies in merging traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques, fostering designs that are both practical and environmentally conscious. As the author of Fruniturix, Huston delves into the art and science of furniture-making, inspiring artisans and industry professionals alike.
Education
- RMIT University (Melbourne, Australia)
Associate Degree in Design (Furniture)- Focus on sustainable design, industry-driven projects, and practical craftsmanship.
- Gained hands-on experience with traditional and digital manufacturing tools, such as CAD and CNC software.
- Nottingham Trent University (United Kingdom)
Bachelor’s in Furniture and Product Design (Honors)- Specialized in product design with a focus on blending creativity with production techniques.
- Participated in industry projects, working with companies like John Lewis and Vitsoe to gain real-world insights.
Publications and Impact
In Fruniturix, Huston shares his insights on furniture design processes, materials, and strategies for efficient production. His writing bridges the gap between artisan knowledge and modern industry needs, making it a must-read for both budding designers and seasoned professionals.