Pattern Description:
This project is a Pillowcase with Checkerboard Band that fits a standard-size bed pillow, finishing at 30×20 inches.
The pattern uses three coordinating prints. The decorative band is created by assembling 3-inch squares from print No. 1 and print No. 2 into eight Four-Patch units.
These units form a checkerboard strip which is attached to the main pillowcase body, cut from print No. 3.
Materials Needed & Measurements:
The quantities listed below are for one pillowcase and assume 44/45″-wide, 100% cotton fabrics.
| Material Description | Yardage Needed | Specific Fabric Cuts Required |
| Print No. 1 (blocks) | 1⁄4 yard | 16 3″ squares |
| Print No. 2 (blocks) | 3⁄8 yard | 1 – 5 1⁄2 × 40 1⁄2″ strip; 16-3″ squares |
| Print No. 3 (pillowcase body) | 7⁄8 yard | 1 – 25 3⁄4 × 41″ rectangle |
Notes on Measurements and Seam Allowances:
- Measurements listed include seam allowances.
- A 1⁄4″ seam allowance is used for piecing blocks (assembling the band).
- A 1⁄2″ seam allowance is generally used for the remaining pillowcase construction steps.
Instructions for Making the Checkerboard Band Pillowcase Pattern:
Preparation and Cutting
This pattern is designed for 44/45″-wide, 100% cotton fabrics. Measurements include a 1/4-inch seam allowance for piecing the blocks and a 1/2-inch seam allowance for the general pillowcase construction.
Before beginning, cut the following pieces from the required yardage:
| Print No. | Yardage Required | Cuts Required |
| Print No. 1 (blocks) | 1/4 yard | 16-3″ squares |
| Print No. 2 (blocks) | 3/8 yard | 1 – 5 1/2 × 40 1/2″ strip; 16-3″ squares |
| Print No. 3 (pillowcase body) | 7/8 yard | 1 – 25 3/4 × 41″ rectangle |
Assemble the Checkerboard Strip (Band)
Use a 1/4-inch seam allowance for the following steps related to piecing the blocks.
The first objective is to construct eight Four-Patch units. To create one Four-Patch unit, begin by combining two print No. 1-3″ squares and two print No. 2-3″ squares.
Sew these squares together in pairs. After sewing the pairs, press the seams in opposite directions.
Next, join the pairs to create a complete Four-Patch unit. Press this final seam in one direction.
Once assembled, this Four-Patch unit, including seam allowances, should measure 5 1/2 inches square. Repeat this process until a total of eight Four-Patch units have been made.
The second objective is to form the checkerboard strip. Join the eight completed Four-Patch units together end-to-end to create the full checkerboard strip (referencing the Band Assembly Diagram).
When complete, the checkerboard strip should measure 5 1/2 × 40 1/2 inches, including the seam allowances.
Prepare the Pillowcase Band
Use a 1/2-inch seam allowance for the remainder of the construction steps, except where specifically noted.
First, attach the secondary fabric strip to the checkerboard strip. Sew the print No. 2-5 1/2 × 40 1/2″ strip to one long edge of the completed checkerboard strip (referring to Diagram 1 and the Band Assembly Diagram).
Next, join the short ends of this newly created unit (from the previous step) to form a continuous loop.
To finish preparing the decorative element, fold this loop in half. The wrong sides of the fabric should be facing inside, and the piece should then be pressed to form the complete pillowcase band.
Assemble the Pillowcase Body
The main body of the pillowcase is constructed from the print No. 3-25 3/4 × 41″ rectangle.
Fold the print No. 3 rectangle in half. When folded, the rectangle should measure 25 3/4 × 20 1/2 inches.
Using the 1/2-inch seam allowance, sew together the long edges and one pair of the short edges to finalize the shape of the pillowcase body.
Once the seams are secure, turn the pillowcase body to the right side out and press it flat.
Joining the Band and Finishing
To join the decorative band to the main body, match the raw edges. Slide the prepared pillowcase band over the pillowcase body, ensuring that the Four-Patch units are facing the pillowcase body. Pin the layers securely in place.
Using a 1/4-inch seam allowance– a variance from the general construction allowance-sew together through all layers (referencing Diagram 2).
Finally, the band must be pressed and topstitched. Press the pillowcase band open, making sure to press the seam allowances toward the pillowcase body.
Secure the seam allowances and complete the pillowcase by topstitching 1/8 inch from the band edge onto the pillowcase body (referring to Diagram 3).
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