D-I-Y Pillow Design

Throw pillows are great to use in just about any areasure to include a half inch seam all the way around on
of your home. They can accessorize a bland couch,each piece. Also, remember that the fabric does not
accent a bed or futon, make an uncomfortable kitchenhave to be identical on each side of the pillow. You
chair comfy, and bring the indoors outside when addedcould make the front side a detailed pattern and the
to patio chairs or loungers.back side a solid color. Just be certain that whatever
Considering all of the various options to use pillows,fabric you decide, you measure and cut the front and
you can imagine how expensive the idea couldback pieces the same size.
become. And, that is why we have chosen to explainStep 4: Line the front and back pieces of the fabric
the do-it-yourself version of pillow design.together in an inside out fashion (the parts of the fabric
Designing your own pillows helps save money andthat you want to see on the pillow should be on the
allows you to create unique, one of a kind pieces. Toinside).  Once arranged pin the two pieces together
do so, follow the easy steps explained below.about a quarter inch in from the edges.
Step 1: Decide on a decorative fabric. Shop in craftStep 5: Begin sewing the pinned pieces together,
stores or buy fabric online for a wider selection.leaving a half inch seam around the edges. Be sure to
Consider the color(s) you wish to use, if you would likealso leave a gap of at least 3 inches so you have an
a pattern or detail, and the fabric material that youarea to stuff the pillow with filler.
prefer. This all depends on the room that the pillow willStep 6: Turn the sewed pieces right side out and iron
be used in and its purpose. For instance if the pillow willthe material. Be careful to use the right iron
be purely decorative, then a detailed or beaded silktemperature depending on the type of material.
fabric would work but if people will be sitting or layingStep 7: Stuff the pillow through the gapped area with
on the pillow you would want to choose a morewhatever filler you choose. This can be cotton, down,
comfortable fabric.feather, or another option. Squeeze the pillow and test
Step 2: Determine the size and shape of the pillow.the comfort to determine how much filler you want to
Rectangles and squares are easier to work with butuse.
you could also design a circular or oval shaped pillow ifStep 8: Finish the D-I-Y throw pillow by sewing
you prefer.together the gapped area. The half inch seem should
Step 3: Measure out the size and shape needed andbe folded in and a whip stitch should be used.
cut two pieces for the front and back of the pillow. Be