I’ve always loved the way throw pillows can completely transform a room. But when it comes to sewing them, let’s just say zippers and I aren’t exactly best friends. That’s why these easy envelope pillows are my go-to for stylish and budget-friendly updates! They’re quick to make, cost-effective, and don’t require any fancy sewing skills.
If you’re looking for more ways to bring your personal touch into your home, you might love my DIY No-Sew Floor Pillows tutorial. These oversized cushions are just as easy to make and perfect for creating a cozy, inviting vibe in any room.
How to Sew Easy Envelope Pillows
Supplies
(List includes affililate links)
- One fat quarter per pillow
- Neutral fabric (like Muslin) for back of pillow
- 16 inch pillow form*
- Thread
Tools
*You can use other sized of pillow forms, of course. But for the purposes of this tutorial, measurements are based on a 16″ pillow form.
Instructions
1. Cut the fabric: Trim your fat quarter to 17″ x 17″ and cut the neutral fabric into two pieces, each 17″ x 12.5″.
2. Hem the neutral fabric: Fold over one long edge of each neutral piece, press it with an iron, and sew down the hem.
3. Pin the layers: Place the fat quarter piece face up. Layer the neutral fabric pieces on top, right sides together, so they overlap by about 4 inches. Pin in place.
4. Sew the perimeter: Using a ½-inch seam allowance, sew around all four edges. Backstitch at the start and end to secure the stitches. For corners, leave the needle in the fabric, lift the presser foot, and pivot.
5. Trim and turn: Snip off the corners to reduce bulk, turn the pillow cover right side out, and press with an iron.
6. Insert pillow form: Pop in your pillow form and enjoy!
These steps can be adjusted for pillows of any size—just remember to add a ½-inch seam allowance and allow for sufficient overlap in the back.
The Fabrics I Used
Top to bottom:
- Joel Dewberry Aviary 2 Sparrows in Vintage Yellow
- Joel Dewberry Aviary 2 Scrollwork in Granite Grey Yellow
- Joel Dewberry Aviary 2 Lattice Vintage Yellow
- Joel Dewberry Damask in Granite
- Dwell Studio Blossom Print in Citrine (Not shown above. Far right pillow below.)
How to Sew Around a Corner
1. Sew along one side until 1/2 from corner edge.
2. With the needle still in the fabric, lift the presser foot.
3. Rotate fabric 90 degrees.
4. Replace presser foot and continue sewing.
Repeat all four steps as needed.
FAQs
The overlap creates the envelope closure, keeping the pillow form secure without needing zippers or buttons.
For a snug, professional look, use a pillow form that’s the same size as your cover. For this tutorial, I used a 16-inch form, but you can adjust the measurements for other sizes.
Absolutely! If you’d like a reversible look, use coordinating fabrics for the front and back.
Yes, though it will take longer. Use a sturdy backstitch for durability.
Easy Envelope Pillows Tutorial
Materials
- One fat quarter per pillow
- Neutral fabric (like Muslin) for back of pillow
- 16 inch pillow form*
- Thread
Tools
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Straight pins
Instructions
- Cut the fabric: Trim your fat quarter to 17" x 17" and cut the neutral fabric into two pieces, each 17" x 12.5".
- Hem the neutral fabric: Fold over one long edge of each neutral piece, press it with an iron, and sew down the hem.
- Pin the layers: Place the fat quarter piece face up. Layer the neutral fabric pieces on top, right sides together, so they overlap by about 4 inches. Pin in place.
- Sew the perimeter: Using a ½-inch seam allowance, sew around all four edges. Backstitch at the start and end to secure the stitches. For corners, leave the needle in the fabric, lift the presser foot, and pivot.
- Trim and turn: Snip off the corners to reduce bulk, turn the pillow cover right side out, and press with an iron.
- Insert pillow form: Pop in your pillow form and enjoy!
What do you think? Will you give these easy envelope pillows a try? I’d love to hear about your creations in the comments below!
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