Envelope Pillow Tutorial

This is a project we shared over at The Ribbon Retreat a couple months ago.  (We also shared some easy chevron curtains.)   This might seem extreme, but envelope pillows have changed my life.  At least the home decor part of my life. : ) I have made about a dozen since I discovered the technique.  They are so quick and easy! These ones are for my 8 and 10 year old girls bedroom.  We were ready for some fresh new colors.

Here’s the list:

Fabric (1/2 yd.-1 yd. depending on pillow size)

Pillow insert (or old throw pillows to cover)

Thread, measuring tape, rotary cutter (or scissors)

First, the fabric.  The Ribbon Retreat has fabulous fabric choices!  

  For these pillows,  I fell in love with these two fabrics:

My pillow inserts (from IKEA) are 18″ x 18,” which is a very common size.  (All the throw pillows I have covered have been this size.)  First, cut the fabric. 

 For 18″x 18″ pillow:  

 Cut one square 19″ x 19″

And two 12″ x 19″ pieces.

   

Next, iron and hem down one edge of each 12″ x 19″ piece, lengthwise.  (So down one 19″ side.)

Now lay the two 12″ x 19″ pieces on the 19″ x 19″ piece matching up all the edges, right sides together.

Be sure the hemmed edges are in the center, they’ll be overlapping.

Pin in place.

Sew around the entire pillow.

It will look like this!  An envelope with no slip stitching to do 

and completely interchangeable!  

Just turn right side out.

 And put your pillow inside!

These are such a great way to update and change the look of a room!  They fold up small to store for seasonal pillow covers too.    Seriously fun!  

Linking up to some of these parties: