Decorating a pillow cover is a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your home decor. Whether you’re looking to refresh your living space or create a thoughtful gift, designing your own pillow cover allows you to express your style and creativity.
With a variety of materials, techniques, and design ideas to choose from, you can transform a simple pillow cover into a unique decoration that perfectly matches your aesthetic. In this blog post on How to decorate a pillow cover, we will guide you through the steps to create your own customized pillow cover.
Needed Materials
Plain Pillow Cover
First, you will need a plain pillow cover. You can purchase one from a craft store or use an old one that needs a fresh look.
Fabric Markers or Paints
Fabric markers and paints are essential for adding designs and patterns to your pillow cover. These materials come in a wide range of colors and are specifically designed for fabric.
Stencils (Optional)
Using stencils is an easy way to create intricate designs on your pillow cover. You can either buy pre-made stencils at a craft store or make your own using cardboard or paper.
Rhinestones, Beads, and Other Embellishments (Optional)
To add some sparkle and dimension to your pillow cover, you can use rhinestones, beads, or other embellishments of your choice.
Glue
If you’re using any embellishments, you will need a glue that is suitable for fabric. You can either use fabric glue or a hot glue gun.
Iron
An iron is needed to set the fabric paint and ensure that your designs stay intact on the pillow cover.
8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Decorate a Pillow Cover
Step 1: Select Your Materials
Begin by gathering all the materials you will need for your project. Choose a plain pillow cover as your base, and decide on the type of design you want to create. Depending on your vision, select fabric markers, paints, stencils, and embellishments like rhinestones or beads.
Ensure you have the right glue for adhering embellishments and an iron for setting the fabric paint. Having all your materials ready before starting will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Clean and Prepare the Pillow Cover
Before decorating, it’s essential to clean your pillow cover to get rid of any dirt or stains. If you’re using an old one, wash it and iron out any wrinkles if needed. Preparing your fabric will ensure that your designs come out clean and crisp.
It’s also a good idea to place a piece of cardboard or paper inside the pillow cover to prevent any paint from bleeding through.
Step 3: Choose Your Design
Deciding on the design is one of the most exciting parts of decorating a pillow cover. Think about the theme you want to achieve—do you prefer something modern, floral, abstract, or seasonal? Sketch your ideas on paper first to visualize how they will look on the pillow cover.
If you’re using stencils, select ones that align with your vision, or create custom stencils for a personalized touch. At this stage, planning your color scheme is also important, as it will bring your design to life and ensure it complements your decor. Take your time during this step to create a design that perfectly reflects your style and creativity.
Step 4: Start Decorating
Now, it’s time to transfer your design onto the pillow cover. If you’re using stencils, secure them in place with tape and gently dab on paint or markers. For freehand designs, start by lightly sketching your design with a pencil before adding color.
If you’re using embellishments, use the fabric glue or hot glue gun to carefully attach them too the fabric. Remember to let everything dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Set the Paint
Once your design is fully dry, it’s important to set the paint to ensure it doesn’t fade or wash away over time. Use an iron on a low to medium heat setting and gently press over the painted areas. Make sure to place a thin cloth or piece of parchment paper between the iron and the pillow cover to protect the fabric and design.
This heat-setting process binds the paint to the fabric, making your design more durable and long-lasting. Be sure to follow the instructions on your fabric paint for the best results.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
If you’re happy with your design, you can stop here. However, if you want to add some extra details, now is the time to do so. You can use fabric markers or paints to add small accents and lines or incorporate more embellishments for a bolder look.
If you’re using beads or rhinestones, make sure to use the correct glue to attach them securely onto your pillow cover. Remember to let everything dry completely before moving on to the final step.
Step 7: Let It Dry Completely
After completing your design and adding any finishing touches, it’s crucial to allow the pillow cover to dry completely. Place the decorated pillow cover in a safe, flat area where it won’t be disturbed, and leave it to dry for at least 24 hours, or follow the drying time recommendations for the specific materials you used.
Ensuring the pillow cover is thoroughly dry will prevent any smudging or damage to your design and make your creation ready for use or display. Patience during this step will result in a beautifully finished and durable decoration.
Step 8: Display and Enjoy Your Creation
Congratulations, you have successfully decorated your own customized pillow cover! Now, it’s time to display or use your creation. Place it on your bed, couch, or favorite chair to add a personal touch to your decor. You can also gift your handmade pillow cover to a friend or family member as a thoughtful and unique present.
We hope this guide on how to decorate a pillow cover has inspired you to create beautiful designs for your plain pillow covers using simple materials and techniques. With these step-by-step instructions, you can let your creativity run wild and transform any plain pillow cover into a personalized piece of home decor. Happy decorating!
How Much Will It Cost?
Decorating a pillow cover can be a fun and cost-effective project, but the total expense will depend on the materials you choose and what you already have at home. A plain pillow cover can cost anywhere from $5 to $15, depending on the size and quality. Fabric markers or paints typically range between $5 and $20, while stencils and embellishments like rhinestones, beads, or sequins can add another $5 to $10 to your budget. If you need to purchase fabric glue or a hot glue gun, expect to spend an additional $5 to $20.
Overall, completing this project could cost as little as $15 if you already have some supplies or up to $50 or more if you’re starting from scratch and using premium materials. Despite this range, the satisfaction of creating something personalized and unique makes it a worthwhile investment for your home decor or as a handmade gift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I Use Any Type of Fabric for My Pillow Cover?
Ans: Yes, you can use any fabric as long as it is suitable for decorating with fabric markers or paint. However, fabrics like cotton and linen tend to work best. The fabric should also be pre-washed and ironed before decorating to ensure a smooth surface for your design.
Q2: What Is the Best Way to Clean My Decorated Pillow Cover?
Ans: It is recommended to spot-clean your pillow cover using a mild detergent and water. If the entire cover needs cleaning, follow the instructions on the specific fabric paint or marker used for washing guidelines.
Q3: Can I Use Other Embellishments Besides Beads and Rhinestones?
Ans: Absolutely! You can use any type of embellishment that you prefer, such as sequins, pom-poms, patches, or even fabric scraps. Just make sure to use a suitable adhesive and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Q4: How Can I Make My Design Last Longer?
Ans: To make your design last longer, ensure that you set the paint properly using iron and let it dry completely before use or washing. It is also important to spot clean instead of machine washing to prevent any damage to the design. Additionally, storing your pillow cover in a cool, dry place will help preserve its longevity.
Conclusion
Decorating a pillow cover is a simple yet rewarding DIY project that allows you to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your home decor. With a variety of materials and techniques available, you can create designs that suit your style, whether minimalist or elaborate.
The process, though requiring patience, is enjoyable and provides a sense of accomplishment as you see your vision come to life. Whether you make it as a decorative item for your space or as a heartfelt gift, a customized pillow cover is a lasting piece of art that reflects your unique personality. Thanks for reading this article on How to decorate a pillow cover.
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.