DIY Pillow Cover with Zipper: Simple Steps to Upgrade Your Decor

Are you looking for an easy DIY project to give your space a new look? A great way to spruce up your living room or bedroom without spending a lot of money is by making your own pillow covers with zippers. Not only will you have complete creative control over the aesthetics, but you’ll also know that it’s unique to you.

Making a pillow cover with a zipper might seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple. All you need is some fabric, a zipper, and basic sewing skills. You’ll be surprised at how much of a difference a small change like a new pillow cover can make to your home’s ambiance and style. So, let’s get started with this step-by-step guide on how to make a pillow cover with a zipper.

How to Make a Pillow Cover with Zipper: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking to freshen up your home decor without breaking the bank, learning how to make a pillow cover with a zipper is an excellent place to start! With just a few inexpensive materials and some basic sewing skills, anyone can create a custom pillow cover that perfectly fits their style and personality. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making a pillow cover with a zipper in ten easy steps.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you get started, you’ll need to gather a few materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

– Fabric of your choice
– An invisible zipper
– Sewing machine (but hand-sewing is also possible)
– Thread
– Scissors
– Pins
– Measuring tape
– Iron

Step 2: Choose Your Fabric

The first step in making a pillow cover is choosing your fabric. You can use any fabric you like, but it’s best to choose a sturdy, medium-weight fabric that can withstand frequent use. You can choose a solid color or a pattern, but keep in mind that larger patterns may require more fabric.

Step 3: Measure Your Pillow

Measure your pillow from seam to seam to determine the size of your fabric. Add one inch to both the width and length measurements to account for seam allowances.

Step 4: Cut Your Fabric

Using your measurements, cut two pieces of fabric to the desired size. Make sure to cut them to the exact same size.

Step 5: Cut Your Zipper

Next, cut your zipper to the length of your fabric. It’s important to use an invisible zipper, as this will give your pillow a sleek, professional look.

Step 6: Sew the Zipper

Sewing the zipper is the trickiest part of making a pillow cover, but with a little patience and practice, anyone can master it. First, take one piece of your fabric and fold the top edge down by half an inch. Place the zipper face down on the folded edge and pin it in place.

Next, use your sewing machine or needle and thread to stitch the zipper in place. Be sure to sew as close to the zipper teeth as possible.

Step 7: Sew the Second Side of the Zipper

Fold the other piece of fabric in half and press the fold with your iron. Open the fabric and place it face up on your work surface. Align the edge of the fabric with the edge of the zipper that you already sewed onto the first piece of fabric, right sides together.

Pin in place and stitch the zipper to the second piece of fabric using the same method as before.

Step 8: Sew the Sides Together

With the zipper in place, it’s time to sew the sides of the pillow cover together. Turn the fabric so that the right sides are together, and pin the edges of the fabric in place. Make sure to line up the edges of the fabric with the zipper.

Sew along the edges of the fabric with a half-inch seam allowance, starting just above the zipper and continuing around the pillow. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure your stitching.

Step 9: Trim the Excess

After sewing the sides together, trim any excess fabric and threads. Be careful not to cut the stitches!

Step 10: Finish the Pillow

Finally, it’s time to finish the pillow cover. Turn the cover right-side out through the zipper. Use your fingers or a blunt object to push the corners out.

Insert your pillow into the cover, and zip it up!

Conclusion

Making a pillow cover with a zipper may seem daunting at first, but with this step-by-step guide, anyone can do it. Experiment with different fabrics and patterns to create a custom look that perfectly fits your style. Plus, once you’ve mastered this technique, you can use it to make other custom home decor items, like throw pillow covers or even curtains. Happy sewing!

Materials and Equipment Needed

Before diving into the process of making a pillow cover with zipper, you need to gather all the necessary materials and equipment. Here are the things you’ll need:

1. Fabric – Decide on the type of fabric you want to use for your pillow cover. A sturdy and durable fabric like cotton or linen is best.

2. Zipper – You’ll need a zipper that’s the same length as the width of your pillow cover. Be sure to choose a zipper that’s strong and can withstand frequent use.

3. Thread – Choose a thread color that matches your fabric.

4. Measuring Tape – This will come in handy when measuring the fabric to ensure a perfect fit.

5. Pins – Use pins to keep the fabric in place while sewing.

6. Scissors – A pair of sharp scissors will be necessary for cutting the fabric and zipper.

7. Iron – You’ll need an iron to press the fabric.

8. Sewing machine – You can make a pillow cover with a needle and thread, but a sewing machine will make the process faster and more efficient.

Choosing the Right Fabric

When choosing the fabric for your pillow cover, consider the decor of the room where the pillow will be used. If the room is modern, you may want to choose a plain or bold fabric. For a more traditional look, choose a patterned fabric.

You should also consider the durability of the fabric. A sturdy and durable fabric like cotton or linen will last longer than a thinner fabric. The pillow will be used frequently, so it’s important to choose a fabric that can withstand frequent use.

Measuring the Fabric

Measure the pillow insert to determine the size of the fabric you need. Add 1 inch to the length and width to allow for a seam allowance. For example, if your pillow insert is 18×18 inches, you’ll need to cut your fabric to 19×19 inches.

Use a measuring tape and a fabric marker to mark your fabric. Cut the fabric to the correct size using scissors.

Cutting the Zipper

Using a pair of scissors, cut the zipper to the same length as the width of your fabric. Be sure to cut the zipper tape, not the teeth.

Attaching the Zipper

Place the zipper face down on the right side of the fabric. Make sure the top edge of the zipper tape is aligned with the top edge of the fabric. Pin the zipper tape to the fabric.

Using the zipper foot on your sewing machine, sew the zipper tape to the fabric. Sew as close to the zipper teeth as possible.

Repeat the same process for the other side of the zipper tape, making sure the ends of the zipper tape are aligned with the edges of the fabric.

Sewing the Sides of the Fabric

Fold the fabric in half with right sides together. Pin the sides together, making sure the corners are aligned. Sew the sides together using a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Repeat for the other side.

Finishing the Pillow Cover

Turn the pillow cover right side out and press it with an iron. Insert the pillow form into the cover through the zipper opening.

Zip up the pillow cover and your pillow is now ready to use! Enjoy your newly made pillow cover knowing that you made it with your own two hands.

3. Materials Needed to Make a Pillow Cover with a Zipper

Making a pillow cover with a zipper requires several materials that are easily accessible from a local fabric store or online retail shop. The following subheadings outline the various materials needed:

Fabric and Zipper

The first and most important materials needed to make a pillow cover with a zipper are the fabric and zipper. When selecting the fabric to use, consider the type of cushion or pillow’s size, color, and design requirements. Typically, a heavy-duty fabric such as cotton, linen, or a durable blend is preferred. For zippers, opt for a size and color that complement the fabric and the size of the cushion or pillow.

Measuring Tape and Ruler

Precise measurements are essential when creating a pillow cover with a zipper to ensure the cover fits the cushion or pillow perfectly. A measuring tape and ruler are essential tools when measuring the fabric, zipper, and cushion or pillow size.

Cutting Tools

Cutting tools such as fabric scissors or rotary cutters and a cutting mat are necessary for cutting the fabric to the appropriate size. The fabric’s edges must be neat and tidy, and any excess fabric should be trimmed off.

Pins and Sewing Machine

Pins and a sewing machine help keep the fabric pieces in place as you sew the pillowcase. Be sure to use pins that are long enough to hold the fabric securely in place but not too long that they damage the fabric’s texture. A sewing machine provides fast results and strong seams. A basic model capable of sewing straight, zigzag, and backstitch stitches is all you need.

Iron and Ironing Board

Finally, an iron and ironing board are essential when making a pillow cover with a zipper. Ironing smooths out the fabric’s wrinkles and folds, making it easier to measure, mark, cut, and sew. The iron and ironing board also come in handy when finishing the pillowcase to give it a professional look.

These materials form the foundation of making a pillow cover with a zipper. Once you have gathered all the materials needed, it’s time to prepare the fabric for sewing. We will cover the steps to follow in the next section.

In the next section, we will look at how to prepare the fabric for making the pillow cover with a zipper.

Time to cozify!

And there you have it, you’re now equipped with the knowledge of how to make a gorgeous pillow cover with a zipper! This project is perfect for anyone who loves adding a cozy, homey touch to their living space without breaking the bank. I hope you enjoyed reading this article and found it helpful. Don’t hesitate to try out different fabrics and colors and experiment a little. Thanks for dropping by, and be sure to visit us again soon!