Making a duvet cover from bed sheets is an easy, cost-effective, and creative way to refresh your bedroom décor. Not only does it allow you to personalize your bedding with patterns and colors of your choice, but it also helps breathe new life into sheets you may already have at home.
With just a few simple materials and sewing skills, you can create a custom duvet cover that perfectly suits your style and enhances the comfort of your bedding.
This guide on how to make a duvet cover from bed sheets will walk you through the process step by step, making it approachable for even beginners.
Why Make a Duvet Cover From Bed Sheets?
There are several reasons why making a duvet cover from bed sheets is a great idea. These include:
Cost-Effectiveness:
Buying a new duvet cover can be expensive, especially if you want one that matches your current bedding or fits your unique taste. Making one from bed sheets is much more budget-friendly. You can get creative and use old or mismatched sheets, giving them a new purpose and saving money at the same time.
Personalization:
By choosing your own bed sheets to create a duvet cover, you have complete control over the design and color scheme. This allows you to easily match the cover to your existing bedding or create a whole new look for your room.
Eco-Friendliness:
Instead of buying a new duvet cover made from synthetic materials, making one from bed sheets promotes sustainability by repurposing old linens. It also reduces waste and minimizes our impact on the environment.
What You Will Need
To make a duvet cover from bed sheets, you will need:
- 2 Flat Bed Sheets (in the Same Size as Your Duvet or Slightly Larger)
- Sewing Machine
- Thread
- Scissors or Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat
- Pins
- Measuring Tape
- Optional Materials Include:
- Fabric for Decorative Trim (Such as Piping or Ribbon)
- Buttons or Snaps for Closure
7 Step-by-step Guides on How to Make a Duvet Cover From Bed Sheets
Step 1: Measure Your Duvet and Cut the Bed Sheets
Start by measuring the dimensions of your duvet. Lay the duvet flat and use a measuring tape to determine its length and width. Add an extra 2 inches to each side (4 inches in total for length and width) to allow for seam allowances and a comfortable fit. Next, spread out both flat bed sheets on a large, flat surface, such as a table or the floor.
Using the measurements you recorded, carefully mark the dimensions on both sheets with fabric chalk or a washable marker. Ensure that the sheets are smooth and aligned before cutting, then use scissors or a rotary cutter to cut the sheets to the marked dimensions.
Step 2: Sew the Flat Sheets Together
Take one of the cut bed sheets and lay it on top of the other, on the right side. Pin the two sheets together along three sides (left, bottom, and right), leaving the top side open.
Using a sewing machine, sew along the pinned edges with a straight stitch, leaving a seam allowance of about half an inch. Trim any excess fabric from the corners to reduce bulk.
Step 3: Create A Decorative Trim (Optional)
Adding a decorative trim to your duvet cover is a simple way to enhance its appearance and give it a polished, professional look. To do this, select a trim material, such as piping, ribbon, or lace, that complements the design of your bed sheets.
Measure enough trim to cover all three sewn sides of the duvet cover and cut it to length. Place the trim between the two sheets, aligning its edge with the raw edges of the fabric, and pin it in place. Make sure that the decorative portion of the trim faces inward, as it will be visible when the duvet cover is turned out on the right side.
Step 4: Sew Decorative Trim
Using a sewing machine, sew the trim along the edges of the duvet cover with a straight stitch. If using piping or ribbon, you can use a zipper foot to make it easier to sew close to the edge. Ensure that the decorative portion of the trim is facing inward as you sew.
The result should be a clean, finished edge with the trim sandwiched between the two sheets.
Step 5: Turn the Right Side Out and Iron
Once you have sewn the decorative trim, turn the duvet cover right side out through the opening at the top. Use your hand or a blunt tool to gently push out the corners for a crisp finish. Then, iron all four edges to flatten any wrinkles and give the cover a smooth look.
It is essential to iron before proceeding to the next step, as it will help with measuring and sewing the closure.
Step 6: Create Closure
There are several ways you can choose to close your duvet cover. Some options include buttons, snaps, or a zipper. For this guide, we will explain how to sew a button closure.
Firstly, determine how many buttons you want on each side of the opening (usually two or three). Then, measure and mark their placement on one edge of the cover and make corresponding marks on the other edge. These marks will serve as a guide when sewing the buttons and buttonholes.
Next, sew the buttons on one edge of the cover and make corresponding buttonholes on the opposite side. To create a buttonhole, use your sewing machine’s buttonhole foot or follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 7: Insert Duvet
After completing the closure, it’s time to insert your duvet into the cover. Lay the duvet cover flat on a clean surface with the opening at the top. Then, take your duvet and fold it lengthwise to make it easier to handle. Gently slide the folded duvet into the cover, ensuring that it reaches all the corners.
Once the duvet is inside, adjust it by shaking and fluffing the cover to evenly distribute the duvet within it. Secure the closure by fastening the buttons, snaps, or zipper. Finally, give the duvet cover a final smoothing to eliminate any wrinkles or bunching, and your custom duvet cover is ready to use!
Following these steps on how to make a duvet cover from bed sheets, you can easily create a personalized and eco-friendly duvet cover from bed sheets. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also provides an opportunity for customization and promotes sustainability.
When to Seek Professional Help?
While making your own duvet cover from bed sheets can be a rewarding and cost-effective project, there may be situations where seeking professional help is beneficial. If you lack experience in sewing or working with fabrics, a professional tailor or seamstress can ensure high-quality results that match your expectations. Additionally, if you are working with delicate or expensive materials, such as silk or high-thread-count linens, a professional’s expertise can help avoid costly mistakes.
You might also consider professional assistance if you want complex customizations, such as embroidery, intricate trims, or unique patterns that require advanced sewing techniques. Lastly, if you’re pressed for time or simply prefer a hassle-free experience, hiring an expert can save you effort while still bringing your design vision to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Make a Duvet Cover From Any Type of Bed Sheet?
A: Yes, you can use any flat bed sheet as long as it is the same size or slightly larger than your duvet. The material of the bed sheet does not matter as long as it is sturdy enough to withstand regular use.
Q: Is It Necessary to Use a Sewing Machine?
A: While it is possible to make a duvet cover by hand-sewing, using a sewing machine will save time and ensure a more secure and polished finish. However, if you do not have access to a sewing machine, you can still follow these steps and hand-sew the duvet cover.
Q: How Can I Personalize My Duvet Cover?
A: There are many ways to personalize your duvet cover, such as adding decorative trim or embellishments like embroidery or fabric paint. You can also mix and match different bed sheets to create a unique pattern or design. The possibilities are endless!
Q: How Often Should I Wash My Duvet Cover?
A: It is recommended to wash your duvet cover every 1-2 weeks, depending on how frequently you use it. Washing it regularly will help maintain its quality and keep it clean. Always follow the care instructions on your bed sheets when washing your duvet cover.
Q: Can I Make a Duvet Cover for Any Size Bed?
A: Yes, you can make a duvet cover for any size bed, as long as you have enough fabric from the flat bed sheet to accommodate the dimensions of your duvet. You may need to sew multiple sheets together for larger bed sizes.
Conclusion
Making a duvet cover from bed sheets is a cost-effective, eco-friendly way to personalize your bedroom decor. With these simple steps on how to make a duvet cover from bed sheets, you can create a unique and stylish cover that reflects your taste while also promoting sustainability. So next time you’re in need of a new duvet cover, consider making one yourself using your favorite bed sheets!
Whether you are looking for ways to save money or reduce waste, this DIY project is an excellent option for anyone who wants to add a personal touch to their bedding and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. So why not give it a try? Happy crafting!
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.