Make your own throw pillows!

Making your own throw pillows is SO easy and fun!

You don't need advanced sewing skills, and this project usually takes 1-2 hours to complete.  In fact, this is a GREAT beginner's project for first time sewers.

Probably the easiest way to make throw pillows is to re-cover another one.  You can use an old one that you don't like anymore, or sometimes you can pick them up at thrift stores or garage sales.  Most throw pillows can be easily cleaned by throwing them in the washer on delicate and dry on 'fluff'.

To recover your old pillow, you'll need to measure both the height and the width of the pillow.  Take this measurement and add 1 inch to each side for your seam allowance.  Now cut 2 pieces of fabric with your measurements.

Place both pieces of fabric together with wrong sides facing inward.  Sew around the edges with a 1/2 inch seam, but be sure to leave around 8 inches on one edge unsewn.  This is so you can insert your pillow.

At this point you'll need to turn your pillow cover right side out.  You can use a pencil to push out the corners.

Take your pillow and squish it through the opening and arrange it so it fits properly.

Now, take a needle and thread to sew your opening shut.  I use a 'hidden hem stitch', which I've diagrammed below.

You've done it!  You've made your first throw pillow!

If you don't have a pillow to recover, you can also follow the same directions as above and fill it with pillow fiber/stuffing - which is easily purchased at your local craft stores.  You can also find plain throw pillows in all different sizes to use for your decor. 

No matter what the shape of your pillow, the instructions are the same:

• Measure
  
• Add an inch to the height and width (if you're doing a circle, you will only add a 1/2 inch)
• Sew along the edges with a 1/4 allowance
• Leave opening to add pillow
• Place pillow in cover, and hand sew closed.