DIY Decorative Throw Pillows: Easy Sewing Project
Want to add a cozy and personalized touch to your living room? This easy sewing project is the perfect way to do it! Creating your own decorative throw pillows is surprisingly simple, even for beginners. This tutorial walks you through each step, providing a clear and concise guide to crafting beautiful, handmade pillows.
What You'll Need
- Fabric: Choose your favorite! Cotton, linen, or even flannel work well. (Approximately 1/2 yard for a standard 18x18 pillow)
- Sewing Machine
- Thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring Tape or Ruler
- Pillow Insert (18x18 inches) - or enough filling to create a similarly sized pillow
Step-by-Step Tutorial
1. Cut Your Fabric: Start by cutting two squares of fabric to the desired size of your pillow. For an 18x18 inch pillow, cut two 19x19 inch squares. This extra inch allows for a seam allowance. Accurate cutting is important for a neat finish!
2. Pin the Fabric Together: Place the two fabric squares right sides together (the “pretty” sides should be facing each other). Carefully pin around all four edges, leaving a 6-inch opening on one side. This opening is crucial for turning the pillow right side out and inserting the pillow insert.
3. Sew Around the Edges: Using your sewing machine, sew around all four edges of the fabric, about 1/2 inch from the edge. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitching to secure the seams. Be sure to leave that 6-inch opening unsewn!
4. Trim the Corners (Optional): This is a small step, but it helps to create sharper corners when the pillow is turned right side out. Carefully trim the excess fabric at each corner, being careful not to cut into the seam.
5. Turn Right Side Out: Carefully reach through the 6-inch opening and turn the pillow right side out. Use a blunt tool (like a chopstick or the end of a pencil) to gently push out the corners for a crisp, clean look. This is easiest if you have long fingers!
6. Insert the Pillow Insert (or Stuffing): If you're using a pre-made pillow insert, simply slide it into the opening. If you're creating a pillow from scratch, fill the pillow with batting or stuffing until it’s plump and full.
7. Close the Opening: Fold the raw edges of the opening inward and pin them together. Using your sewing machine, sew the opening closed using a blind stitch if you want a nearly invisible closure. A simple straight stitch will also work just fine!
Tips & Variations
- Fabric Choice: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics! Velvet, corduroy, or even repurposed materials can create unique and stylish pillows.
- Add Embellishments: Get creative with buttons, ribbons, or embroidery to personalize your pillows even further.
- Patchwork Pillows: Combine different fabric scraps to create a colorful and eclectic patchwork pillow.
- Size Variations: Adjust the fabric dimensions to create pillows of different sizes.
With a little bit of effort, you can create beautiful and personalized throw pillows that will add warmth and style to any room. Happy crafting!
