Indulge in the art of home décor and elevate your living spaces with a delightful DIY project: crafting an envelope pillow cover. This versatile and charming accent piece is not only easy to make but also adds a touch of elegance and warmth to any room. Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a novice crafter, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create a cozy and stylish pillow cover that will become a cherished addition to your home.
To begin this enchanting journey, you will need a few essential materials: fabric of your choice, a sewing machine, thread, scissors, a measuring tape, and a pillow form. The fabric selection is crucial as it sets the tone and style of your pillow cover. Opt for fabrics that complement your existing décor or introduce a pop of color and texture. Once you have gathered your supplies, let’s embark on the delightful process of creating an envelope pillow cover that will add a touch of homemade charm to your home.
First, measure and cut two rectangular fabric pieces that will form the front and back of your pillow cover. The size of these pieces will depend on the size of your pillow form. Ensure that the fabric pieces are large enough to overlap and create an envelope-style closure. Stitch the three sides of the fabric pieces together, leaving the fourth side open. Turn the pillow cover right side out and insert the pillow form. Fold the open edge of the pillow cover over the pillow form and tuck it in to create the envelope closure. Voila! You have successfully crafted a beautiful and functional envelope pillow cover that will enhance the ambiance of your living space.
Gather Your Materials
The primary materials you’ll need for your envelope pillow cover project are as follows:
Fabric
– Select a fabric that complements your décor and personal style.
– Choose a lightweight, durable material such as cotton, linen, or a blend of both.
– For a standard-sized pillowcase (20 inches by 30 inches), you’ll need approximately 1 yard of fabric.
Zipper
– Choose a zipper that matches the size and color of your fabric.
– A 20-inch zipper is suitable for a standard-sized pillowcase.
Thread
– Select a thread that is compatible with your chosen fabric.
– Use a high-quality thread for durability and to prevent fraying.
Other Materials
– Sewing machine
– Measuring tape or ruler
– Scissors
– Marking tool (e.g., chalk, fabric marker)
– Iron and ironing board
Additional Tips for Gathering Materials
- Prewash your fabric before cutting to prevent shrinkage or distortion after sewing.
- Press your fabric before cutting to ensure smooth and accurate seams.
- If you’re using a patterned fabric, consider the print direction and how it will look on the finished pillowcase.
- Choose a zipper that is long enough to fit the opening of your pillowcase with some extra overlap for securing.
Cut Your Fabric
Now that you have your fabric and bias tape, it’s time to cut them to the correct size. For the pillow cover, you will need to cut two pieces of fabric that are the same size. The size of the fabric will depend on the size of the pillow you want to make. For a standard-size pillow, you will need to cut two pieces of fabric that are 20 inches by 26 inches.
Once you have cut the two pieces of fabric, you will need to cut the bias tape. You will need to cut the bias tape into four pieces. Each piece of bias tape should be 20 inches long.
Here is a table that summarizes the cutting instructions:
| Fabric | Size |
|---|---|
| Pillow Cover | 20 inches by 26 inches |
| Bias Tape | 20 inches |
Fold and Press the Edges
Once the fabric pieces are cut out, it’s time to fold and press the edges. This step will help the fabric stay in place when you sew it, and it will also give the pillowcase a more polished look.
- Take one of the fabric pieces and fold the top edge down by 1 inch. Press the fold with an iron.
- Fold the bottom edge up by 1 inch. Press the fold.
- Fold the sides in by 1 inch on each side. Press the folds.
The table below summarizes the steps for folding and pressing the edges:
| Step | Fold | Press |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Top edge down by 1 inch | Yes |
| 2 | Bottom edge up by 1 inch | Yes |
| 3 | Sides in by 1 inch on each side | Yes |
Pin the Sides
Once you’ve finished sewing the edges, it’s time to pin the sides of the pillow cover together. Start by aligning the raw edges of the two side pieces, right sides together. Pin the sides of the pillow cover together, leaving a 2-inch opening in the center of one side for turning. Fold the excess fabric over by 1/2 inch and press to create a neat hem. Top stitch 1/4 inch from the edge of the hem to secure it. Turn the pillow cover right side out and insert the pillow.
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Align the raw edges of the side pieces, right sides together. |
| 2 | Pin the sides of the pillow cover together, leaving a 2-inch opening in the center of one side for turning. |
| 3 | Fold the excess fabric over by 1/2 inch and press to create a neat hem. |
| 4 | Top stitch 1/4 inch from the edge of the hem to secure it. |
| 5 | Turn the pillow cover right side out and insert the pillow. |
Sew the Sides
Now that the envelope flap is sewn, it’s time to sew the sides of the pillow cover. This will create the envelope enclosure that will hold the pillow insert.
1. Fold one side of the pillow cover up, aligning the raw edges. Pin along the side.
2. Sew along the pinned edge, using a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Repeat for the other side.
3. To create the flap opening, fold down the top edge of one side of the pillow cover by 3 inches. Press the fold.
4. Fold the other side of the pillow cover over the folded edge, aligning the raw edges. Pin along the side.
5. Sew along the pinned edge, using a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Stop sewing about 3 inches from the top edge. This will leave an opening for the pillow insert.
6. Turn the pillow cover right side out and insert the pillow form. The pillow cover is now complete!
Insert the Pillow Form
To complete your envelope pillow cover, it’s time to insert the pillow form. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a snug and secure fit:
- Open the Envelope: Unfold the envelope pillow cover and lay it flat, with the opening facing upwards.
- Fluff the Pillow: Grab the pillow form and give it a few shakes to fluff it up and make it evenly filled.
- Insert the Pillow: Carefully place the pillow form inside the envelope cover, aligning the corners and edges.
- Center the Pillow: Gently adjust the pillow form around the inside of the cover until it’s evenly centered.
- Secure the Pillow: Tuck the excess fabric of the envelope cover flap around the pillow form. Make sure the flap overlaps the opening by about 2 inches on all sides.
- Fold the Envelope: Fold down the top flap of the envelope cover over the filled pillow. Ensure the flap completely covers the opening and overlaps by at least 2 inches.
- Insert the Envelope Closure: Locate the envelope closure on the back of the pillow cover and insert the provided envelope form into the fabric envelope. This will secure the folded flap in place.
By following these steps, you’ll have successfully inserted the pillow form into your envelope pillow cover, resulting in a comfortable and stylish addition to your home décor.
Fold and Pin the Opening
7. **Overlap and Pin the Opening:**
– Overlap the edges of the opening, aligning them precisely.
– Insert pins perpendicular to the edge, about 1/2 inch apart.
– Ensure that the pins are parallel to each other and secure the opening firmly.
– Repeat the pinning process for the opposite side of the opening.
**Tip:** To prevent puckering or distortion when sewing the opening, use plenty of pins and take your time aligning the fabric.
**Additional Tips:**
– Use sharp pins that will easily pierce the fabric without snagging or tearing it.
– Pin perpendicularly to the edge to prevent the fabric from shifting during sewing.
– Keep the pins parallel to each other to ensure a straight seam.
– Check the alignment of the opening regularly as you pin to avoid any gaps or overlaps.
| Opening Length | Number of Pins | |
|---|---|---|
| Small (12-18 inches) | 10-15 | |
| Medium (18-24 inches) | 15-20 | |
| Large (24-30 inches) | 20-25 |
Topstitch the Opening
Now that the pillow cover is right side out, it’s time to topstitch the opening closed. This will give the pillow cover a clean and finished look.
To topstitch the opening, you will need:
- A sewing machine
- Thread
- A needle
- A seam gauge
- An iron (optional)
Follow these steps to topstitch the opening:
1. Fold the edge of the opening over by 1/4 inch and press it.
2. Fold the edge of the opening over again by 1/4 inch and press it.
3. Topstitch the opening close, using a straight stitch and a seam allowance of 1/8 inch.
4. Reinforce the corners of the opening by stitching a few extra stitches in each corner.
5. Trim any excess thread.
Your envelope pillow cover is now complete! Insert a pillow form and enjoy your new decorative accent.
| Materials | A sewing machine, thread, a needle, a seam gauge, an iron (optional) |
| Steps | Fold the edge of the opening over by 1/4 inch and press it, Fold the edge of the opening over again by 1/4 inch and press it, Topstitch the opening close, using a straight stitch and a seam allowance of 1/8 inch, Reinforce the corners of the opening by stitching a few extra stitches in each corner, Trim any excess thread. |
Add Decorative Trims
Once the pillow cover is completed, you can add decorative trims to enhance its appearance. Here are a few ideas to consider:
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Pom-poms and Tassels
Add a playful touch with pom-poms or tassels along the edges or corners of the pillow cover. You can choose from a wide variety of colors and materials to match your décor.
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Lace and Trim
Delicate lace or trim can add a touch of elegance to your pillow cover. Stitch it along the edges or around the perimeter to create a feminine or vintage-inspired look.
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Buttons and Beads
Buttons or beads can add a sophisticated or bohemian touch to your pillow cover. Sew them on in a random pattern or create a specific design for a customized look.
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Embroidery
If you have some embroidery skills, you can create intricate designs on your pillow cover. Choose a thread color that complements the fabric and stitch patterns such as flowers, geometric shapes, or abstract motifs.
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Fabric Strips
Cut strips of contrasting fabric and sew them around the edges of the pillow cover. This can create a bold and modern look, especially if you use contrasting colors or patterns.
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Fringe
Add a touch of whimsy with fringe along the edges of your pillow cover. You can choose from a variety of materials, such as cotton, silk, or leather, to create a unique and stylish look.
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Quilting
If you have quilting skills, you can create a quilted design on your pillow cover. This can add texture and interest, especially if you use multiple fabrics or colors.
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Piping
Piping is a narrow strip of fabric that is sewn around the edges of a pillow cover. It can add a sophisticated and tailored look, and is typically used in conjunction with traditional upholstery fabrics.
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Cording
Cording is a decorative element that can be sewn around the edges of a pillow cover. It can be made from a variety of materials, such as cotton, silk, or leather, and adds a touch of texture and dimension.
Materials You’ll Need:
Fabric for the pillow cover (1/2 yard is typically enough for one cover)
Pillow insert (16 inches square is a common size)
Scissors
Sewing machine
Thread
Measuring tape or ruler
Iron and ironing board
Instructions:
Step 1: Cut the Fabric
Cut two pieces of fabric that are each 18 inches wide by 18 inches long.
Step 2: Hem the Edges
Fold the raw edges of each piece of fabric over by 1/2 inch and press. Fold over again by 1/2 inch and press again. Stitch close to the folded edge.
Step 3: Create the Envelope Opening
On one piece of fabric, fold down a 6-inch section of the top edge. Press. Fold down another 6-inch section of the bottom edge. Press.
Step 4: Pin the Layers
Place the two pieces of fabric right sides together, with the hemmed edges aligned. Pin around the edges, leaving a 4-inch opening along one of the side seams.
Step 5: Sew the Seams
Sew around the edges of the pillow cover, close to the pinned edges. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitching.
Step 6: Turn the Pillow Cover Right Side Out
Reach through the opening and turn the pillow cover right side out. Smooth out the corners and edges.
Step 7: Insert the Pillow
Insert the pillow insert into the pillow cover. The opening should be large enough to easily fit the pillow through.
Step 8: Close the Opening
Fold the flap of the opening over the edge of the pillow cover and stitch close to the edge. Topstitch around the entire edge of the pillow cover for added strength.
Step 9: Press and Enjoy
Press the pillow cover to remove any wrinkles. Enjoy your new, custom-made pillow cover!
Enjoy Your Finished Pillow Cover
Now that you’ve finished sewing your envelope pillow cover, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your new pillow cover:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use high-quality fabric | The fabric you use for your pillow cover will affect its durability and appearance. Choose a fabric that is soft, durable, and easy to care for. |
| Pre-wash your fabric | Pre-washing your fabric will help to prevent it from shrinking or fading after you sew it. |
| Use the correct thread | The thread you use for your pillow cover should be strong and durable. Choose a thread that is the same color as your fabric or a coordinating color. |
| Sew carefully | Take your time and sew carefully to ensure that your pillow cover is well-made and durable. |
| Press your pillow cover | Pressing your pillow cover will help to give it a professional finish. |
By following these tips, you can enjoy your envelope pillow cover for many years to come.
How to Sew an Envelope Pillow Cover
Envelope pillow covers are a great way to add a touch of style to your home decor and best of all, they’re easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can create a custom pillow cover that will perfectly match your existing furniture or add a pop of color to any room.
To make an envelope pillow cover, you will need:
- 1/2 yard of fabric (for a 16-inch pillow cover)
- Coordinating thread
- Scissors
- Sewing machine
- Iron and ironing board
Instructions:
1. Cut out two pieces of fabric that are 18 inches by 18 inches.
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Place the two pieces of fabric right sides together and pin around the edges. Leave a 4-inch opening along one of the sides for turning.
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Sew around the edges of the fabric, using a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitching.
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Turn the pillow cover right side out through the opening you left in the side.
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Insert a pillow into the cover and fold the opening closed. Press the edges of the opening to create a clean finish.
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Enjoy your new envelope pillow cover!
People Also Ask
How do I choose the right fabric for an envelope pillow cover?
When choosing fabric for an envelope pillow cover, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the style of your home decor. If you have a modern home, you might want to choose a fabric with a bold pattern or bright color. If you have a more traditional home, you might want to choose a fabric with a more subtle pattern or neutral color.
