Super Simple Decorative Pillows

If you want to change the décor of your home, decorative pillows are the way to go. If you want to do it quickly, these super simple pillows are the answer. With just a few steps and a little bit of time, you can make several of these pillows to give a warm, cozy feel to your home.

Supplies

• Fabric – see Step 1 below for calculating the amount of fabric needed. Almost any fabric can be used but I love using outdoor fabrics for pillows
• Fiber fill – The amount needed is determined by the size of your pillow and the desired “fluffiness”.

Step 1 – Fabric Measurements

• Decide on the size pillow you want. I made a 16” square pillow.
• Add the front of pillow (16”) to the back of pillow (16”) to get 32”, then add 1″ for the seam allowances (1/2″ x 2) .
• Add 1” to the height  for ½” seam allowances. This gives you the fabric measurement, 33” x 17”.

Step 2 – Side Seams

Fold the rectangle of fabric in half (right sides together) across the width. Stitch along both sides to create a “pocket”. I used a serger (wide 3-thread stitch) and trimmed about ¼” of fabric as I stitched, which left 1/4″ seam allowances. You can also stitch this using the sewing machine, sewing a ½” seam.

Step 3 – Optional Edge Finishing

Optional: Finish the raw edges of the opening by serging or overcasting. The edges are going to be turned in, so this isn’t absolutely necessary. Fold the raw edges in ½” and use pins or clips to hold them together. Edgestitch about 1/8” from the edge. After stitching about 4”-5”, stop and backstitch to secure the threads. Do the same coming from the other side. This leaves an opening in the center so you can finish filling the pillow.

Step 4 – Stuffing the Pillow

Add fiber fill to the pillow, making sure you get into the corners. You can fill this pillow to your liking to make a puffy pillow or a flatter one.

Step 5 – Closing the Opening

Push the fiber fill down into the pillow, away from the opening. Edgestitch the opening closed. Massage the pillow to even out the fiber fill.

I made each of these pillows in about 15 minutes – a quick way to freshen a room, adding color and comfort to your home.

Custom Pillow Forms

Using a pillow form is another option for this pillow. Click here to see how I make custom pillow forms – especially great if you are making an odd sized pillow. Spoiler alert: It’s very similar to the construction of this pillow!

As always,