How to Sew a Pocket Pillow Cover
Are you looking to add a touch of personal style to your home decor? One of the simplest and most effective ways to do so is by creating your own pocket pillow covers. Not only are they a great way to refresh your living space, but they also offer practical storage solutions for small items. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to sew a pocket pillow cover, ensuring that you end up with a beautiful and functional piece.
Materials Needed
Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of items you will need:
– Pillow form or existing pillow to measure and cut the cover
– Fabric of your choice (suggested amount: 1 yard for a standard pillow size)
– Thread to match your fabric
– Sewing machine or needle and thread
– Scissors
– Measuring tape
– Pins
– Iron and ironing board
– Optional: interfacing for extra structure
Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
The first step in how to sew a pocket pillow cover is to measure and cut your fabric. Start by measuring the length and width of your pillow form or existing pillow. Add 1 inch to each dimension for seam allowances. For example, if your pillow is 16 inches wide and 18 inches long, you will need a piece of fabric that is 17 inches wide and 19 inches long.
Lay out your fabric with the right side facing down. Measure and mark the dimensions on the fabric using a ruler and a fabric pen. Cut the fabric using sharp scissors or a rotary cutter.
Attaching the Pocket
Now it’s time to attach the pocket to your fabric. First, fold the top edge of the fabric over 1/4 inch and press with an iron. Then, fold it over again 1/4 inch and press again. This creates a 1/2-inch hem.
Next, fold the bottom edge of the fabric up 3 inches (or the desired pocket depth) and press with an iron. This will create the pocket opening. Pin the pocket in place, ensuring that the raw edges are aligned with the side edges of the fabric.
Sewing the Pocket
With the pocket in place, it’s time to sew it onto the fabric. Start by sewing along the bottom edge of the pocket, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure it.
Next, sew along the top edge of the pocket, leaving a 2-inch opening for turning. This opening will be used to turn the pocket right side out.
Assembling the Pillow Cover
Now that the pocket is attached, it’s time to sew the pillow cover together. Lay the fabric with the pocket on top of the other piece of fabric, right sides together. Pin the pieces together along the three sides that do not have the pocket.
Sew along the pinned edges using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Leave the top edge (with the pocket opening) open. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure it.
Finishing Touches
To finish your pocket pillow cover, turn it right side out through the pocket opening. Press the edges with an iron to remove any wrinkles. Topstitch along the top edge of the pillow cover to create a finished look.
Finally, stuff the pillow form into the cover through the pocket opening and enjoy your newly created pocket pillow cover!
Now that you know how to sew a pocket pillow cover, you can experiment with different fabrics, patterns, and pocket placements to create a unique piece that complements your home decor. Happy sewing!
