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how to make a zippered pillow cover

how to make a zippered pillow cover

3 min read 16-01-2025
how to make a zippered pillow cover

Meta Description: Learn how to sew a zippered pillow cover with our easy-to-follow tutorial! This comprehensive guide provides detailed instructions, photos, and tips for creating a professional-looking pillow cover with a hidden zipper closure. Perfect for beginners and experienced sewists alike! Enhance your home decor with custom-made zippered pillowcases.


Creating custom pillow covers is a fantastic way to refresh your home decor and express your personal style. While button closures or envelope closures are simple, a zippered pillow cover offers a clean, professional finish and allows for easy removal and cleaning. This guide will walk you through making your own zippered pillow cover, step by step. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned sewist, you'll find this project manageable and rewarding.

Materials You'll Need:

  • Fabric: Choose your favorite fabric! Consider the weight and texture – linen, cotton, or even a heavier upholstery fabric will work well. You'll need enough fabric to cut two pieces, each the size of your pillow plus seam allowance (approximately 1/2 inch on all sides). For a standard 20x20 inch pillow, cut two pieces at 21x21 inches.
  • Zipper: Select a zipper that's slightly shorter than the width of your pillow. For a 20-inch pillow, a 18-20 inch zipper will be suitable. An invisible zipper is ideal for a clean finish, but a regular zipper also works.
  • Sewing Machine: A basic sewing machine will suffice.
  • Pins: Essential for holding fabric pieces together before sewing.
  • Scissors: Fabric scissors are recommended for clean cuts.
  • Seam Ripper: Handy for correcting any mistakes.
  • Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing your seams ensures a neat finish.
  • Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are crucial for a well-fitting cover.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Fabric:

  • Cut two pieces of fabric to the desired size, adding seam allowance (1/2 inch).
  • Press your fabric to remove wrinkles; this makes sewing easier.

2. Prepare the Zipper:

  • Invisible Zipper: If using an invisible zipper, follow the zipper manufacturer's instructions for inserting it into the fabric. Many tutorials are available online for this technique.
  • Regular Zipper: For a regular zipper, this next step is slightly different.

3. Attaching the Zipper (Regular Zipper):

  • Place one fabric piece right side up. Position the zipper face down along one of the longer edges, aligning the raw edges. Pin in place.
  • Stitch along the edge of the zipper tape, close to the teeth. Repeat with the other fabric piece.

4. Sewing the Pillow Cover:

  • With the zipper attached, place the two fabric pieces right sides together. Pin all around, leaving a small gap on one side for turning.
  • Sew around the perimeter, using a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Remember to leave the turning gap!
  • Carefully trim the corners to reduce bulk.
  • Turn the pillow cover right side out through the turning gap.
  • Press the seams. This is important for a crisp finish.
  • Hand stitch or machine stitch the turning gap closed.

5. Insert the Pillow:

  • Insert your pillow into the finished zippered pillow cover.
  • Zip it up and admire your handiwork!

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Zipper not laying flat: Ensure your stitching is even and close to the zipper tape.
  • Uneven seams: Take your time and pay attention to your stitching.
  • Difficult turning: If turning the cover is difficult, carefully clip the curves before turning.

Variations and Enhancements:

  • Fabric Choices: Experiment with different fabrics, patterns, and textures.
  • Embellishments: Add decorative elements like buttons, embroidery, or appliqués.
  • Different Zipper Types: Try different zipper styles like metal or plastic zippers.

This guide shows you how to make a zippered pillow cover. With practice, you’ll be making custom pillow covers for all your pillows in no time! Remember to always check your measurements and take your time for a professional-looking result. Enjoy your new handmade pillow cover!

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