Pattern Description
This beginner-friendly sewing project shows you how to make a simple envelope pillow cover using about ½ yard of fabric.
The cover is made from three fabric pieces: one front panel and two overlapping back panels that form an envelope-style opening.
You can easily customize this pattern by adding piping, pom-poms, embroidery, or appliqué, and resize it to fit any pillow form.
Materials Needed:
- Fabric (½ yard) – Suitable options include quilting cotton, upholstery fabric, denim, fleece, corduroy, cotton knit, upcycled sweaters, or cotton blends.
- Pillow form (any size).
- Sewing machine.
- Pins or sewing clips.
- Measuring tape and seam gauge (or Hot Hemmer).
- Iron.
- Turning stick or point turner.
Optional Tools: Scissors or rotary cutter, cutting mat, pinking shears, trim (piping, pom poms, etc.).
Measurements:
Front Piece
- Measure your pillow form from side seam to side seam.
- Add 1 inch to both the width and height to determine your front fabric piece.
Example: For a 16” x 16” pillow, cut the front piece 17” x 17”.
Note: If you want a border edge, add 2 inches instead of 1 (e.g., cut 18” x 18”).
Back Pieces (Cut 2)
- Take the front measurement (e.g., 17”) and divide by 2 → 17 ÷ 2 = 8.5”.
- Add 2.5 inches to that number → 8.5” + 2.5” = 11 inches.
- Cut two pieces at 17” (width) x 11” (height).
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Envelope Pillowcase Pattern:
I. Preparation and Cutting
- Measure and cut all fabric pieces according to your pillow form size.
- Iron all pieces flat for accurate sewing.
II. Optional Embellishments
Before assembling, you can decorate the front panel with:
- Embroidery or appliqué
- Buttons or trims
- Fabric panels or borders
Add embellishments now, before sewing the pillow together, for a clean finish.
III. Sewing the Pillow Cover
Hem the Back Edges
- On each back piece, fold one long edge over by ½ inch and press.
- Fold over again (¼ inch hem), press, and pin or clip.
- Topstitch the hem with a straight stitch (length: 3).
Layer the Pieces
- Lay the front piece right side up.
- Place one back piece right side down on top, aligning raw edges (hemmed edge toward the center).
- Place the second back piece right side down, overlapping the first back piece.
- Pin or clip all edges securely.
Sew Around the Perimeter
- Stitch around all four sides with a ½ inch seam allowance and a stitch length of 2.5.
Finish the Seams
- To prevent fraying, finish the raw edges with a zigzag stitch, serger, or pinking shears.
Turn and Press
- Clip corners to reduce bulk.
- Turn the cover right side out and use a point turner for sharp corners.
- Press flat, insert your pillow form, and smooth out the edges.
IV. Customization Options
Adding Trim or Piping
- Position your trim (e.g., pom poms, piping) along the front fabric’s raw edges, facing inward.
- Clip in place, easing around corners gently.
- Baste the trim using a long stitch (length 4) and ⅜ inch seam allowance.
- Use a zipper foot or walking foot for precision.
- Attach the back pieces and sew as usual.
Creating a Border Edge
For a decorative border:
- When cutting, add 2 inches instead of 1 to your pillow measurement.
- After sewing and turning right side out, press flat.
- Topstitch around the edge with a ½ inch seam allowance and a stitch length of 3.
Final Tips
- Always pre-wash fabric to prevent shrinkage.
- Use coordinating thread for a polished finish.
- Mix textures (like linen and velvet) for a designer look.
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