white tape measure and gray scissors
Photo by pina messina on Unsplash

Introduction

If you’re looking for a fun and simple sewing project that both kids and adults can enjoy, making throw pillows is the perfect choice. Whether you want to add some cozy decor to your home or create personalized gifts for your loved ones, sewing small pillows is a creative and rewarding activity. In this article, we will guide you through the easy steps to make a throw pillow, providing you with all the information you need to get started.

Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Supplies:

      • Fabric
      • Thread
      • Scissors
      • Pins
      • Iron
      • Poly-Fil or stuffing material
      • Sewing machine

Here are the steps to make a simple pillow:

      1. Cut out two pieces of fabric in the desired size for your pillow. You can choose any size you prefer, but a square shape is the easiest for beginners. For example, you can cut two pieces of fabric measuring 12×12 inches .
      2. Place the two fabric pieces together with the right sides facing each other. Pin the edges to secure them in place .
      3. Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, sew around the edges of the fabric, leaving a small opening (about 2-3 inches) on one side. This opening will be used to turn the pillow right side out and stuff it 
      4. Trim the excess fabric from the corners to reduce bulkiness when turning the pillow .
      5. Carefully turn the pillow right side out through the opening. Use a pencil or chopstick to push out the corners for a crisp finish 
      6. Stuff the pillow with Poly-Fil or any other stuffing material of your choice. Fill it to your desired level of firmness 
      7. Once the pillow is stuffed, hand stitch or use a sewing machine to close the opening. Make sure to secure the stitches tightly to prevent the stuffing from coming out .

And there you have it! A simple pillow that your kids can proudly make themselves. They can choose different fabrics, patterns, and sizes to personalize their pillows and make them unique.

Measure and Cut the Fabric

The first step in making a throw pillow is to measure and cut your fabric. Decide on the size of your pillow and add an extra half-inch to the width and length for seam allowances. Using a measuring tape or ruler, mark the dimensions on your fabric and cut it out with scissors. If you’re making multiple pillows, repeat this step for each piece of fabric.

Sew the Pillow

Now it’s time to sew the pillow. Place the two pieces of fabric together, with the right sides facing each other. Pin the edges together to secure them in place. Using a needle and thread or a sewing machine, sew around the edges, leaving a small opening for stuffing. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your sewing to secure the stitches.

Stuff the Pillow

Once you’ve sewn the pillow, it’s time to stuff it. Turn the fabric right side out through the small opening you left. Use your fingers or a blunt object to push the corners out for a crisp finish. Then, take your stuffing material and fill the pillow to your desired level of firmness. Make sure to distribute the stuffing evenly for a balanced and comfortable pillow.

Closing the Opening

After stuffing the pillow, you’ll need to close the opening. Fold the raw edges of the fabric inward and use pins to hold them in place. Then, using a needle and thread, sew the opening closed with small, neat stitches. If you prefer, you can also use a sewing machine for this step. Make sure to secure the stitches at the beginning and end to prevent unraveling.

Personalize Your Pillow

Now that you have a basic throw pillow, it’s time to get creative and personalize it. You can add decorative elements such as buttons, ribbons, or embroidery to make your pillow unique. Consider using fabric paint or fabric markers to create designs or write personalized messages. Let your imagination run wild and have fun with the process!

Conclusion

Creating your own throw pillows is not only a great way to add a personal touch to your home decor but also a fun and engaging activity for both kids and adults. By following these easy steps, you can make beautiful and comfortable pillows that reflect your style and creativity. So gather your materials, get sewing, and enjoy the satisfaction of making something with your own hands.