Simplified Sewing: Step-by-Step Tutorial for Sewing Decorative Throw Pillow Covers
Introduction:
Sewing decorative throw pillow covers is a fun and rewarding project that can instantly update the look of your living space. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewist, this step-by-step tutorial will guide you through the process of creating beautiful pillow covers to add a touch of style and personality to your home decor. Let's dive into the world of simplified sewing and unleash your creativity!
Choosing the Right Fabric and Supplies:
The first step in sewing decorative pillow covers is selecting the right fabric and gathering the necessary supplies. Choose fabrics that complement your home decor and add visual interest, such as cotton, linen, or upholstery weight fabric. Additionally, you'll need coordinating thread, a measuring tape, scissors, pins, a sewing machine, and pillow forms or inserts to fill your covers.
Measuring and Cutting Fabric:
Start by measuring your pillow forms or inserts to determine the size of your pillow covers. Add seam allowances to your measurements—typically 1/2 inch to 1 inch on each side, depending on your preference and the thickness of your pillow forms. Using these measurements, cut two pieces of fabric for the front and back of each pillow cover, ensuring they are the same size and shape.
Assembling the Pillow Covers:
Place the two fabric pieces for each pillow cover right sides together, aligning the raw edges. Pin the edges in place to prevent shifting during sewing. Using a straight stitch, sew around the perimeter of the fabric pieces, leaving an opening on one side large enough to insert the pillow form. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitching to secure the seams.
Turning and Pressing:
Once you've sewn the perimeter of the pillow cover, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners diagonally to reduce bulk. Carefully turn the pillow cover right side out through the opening, using a blunt object like a pencil or chopstick to gently push out the corners for crisp edges. Press the seams with an iron to create smooth, professional-looking edges.
Inserting the Pillow Form and Closing the Opening:
Insert the pillow form or insert through the opening of the pillow cover, ensuring it fits snugly and fills out the corners. Once the pillow form is in place, fold the raw edges of the opening under and pin them closed. Using a hand sewing needle and coordinating thread, sew the opening closed using a slip stitch or ladder stitch for an invisible finish.
Adding Embellishments (Optional):
To further personalize your decorative throw pillow covers, consider adding embellishments such as decorative trims, buttons, or appliques. Sew these embellishments onto the pillow covers by hand or with a sewing machine, taking care to secure them firmly in place.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You've successfully sewn your own decorative throw pillow covers, adding a touch of style and personality to your home decor. With just a few simple steps and basic sewing skills, you can create custom pillow covers that reflect your unique taste and enhance any room in your home.