How to Make a Pillowcase | A Perfect Guide 2023

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Making your own pillowcases may be a fun and simple activity if you want to add a unique touch to the furnishings in your bedroom.

You may make personalized pillowcases to complement your bedding or to give as a kind present to a friend or family member with only a few simple supplies and sewing abilities. From choosing your fabric to stitching the last seam.

I’ll walk you through every step of how to make a pillowcase in this lesson. Making a pillowcase is a gratifying and fulfilling activity that can be finished in a matter of hours, regardless of your level of sewing expertise. So let’s get going!

Materials needed:

Fabric (cotton, flannel, or any other desired fabric)
Sewing machine or needle and thread
Pins & Scissors
Iron

How to Make a Pillowcase step by step

Here is the step-by-step method that will show you how to make a simple pillowcase.

Step 1: Gather the necessary materials. You will need fabric, measuring tape, scissors, pins, thread, a sewing machine (optional), and an iron.
Step 2: Measure and cut the fabric. Measure the dimensions of your pillow and add an additional inch to each side for seam allowances. For example, if your pillow is 18×18 inches, you will cut a piece of fabric that is 19×19 inches.
Step 3: Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. This means the printed or more attractive side of the fabric should be on the inside.
Step 4: Pin the sides together. Use pins to secure the two sides of the fabric, making sure the edges align.
Step 5: Sew the sides. Using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, sew a straight stitch along the pinned sides. Start at one corner and continue sewing until you reach the other corner, backstitching at the beginning and end to secure the stitches. Remove the pins as you sew.
Step 6: Trim the excess fabric. Trim the excess fabric along the seam allowance, leaving about ¼ inch of fabric.
Step 7: Turn the pillowcase right side out. Reach inside the pillowcase and pull the fabric through the opening so that the right side of the fabric is now on the outside. Use your fingers or a blunt object to push out the corners for a crisp finish.
Step 8: Iron the pillowcase. Use an iron to press the pillowcase, smoothing out any wrinkles and creating a neat appearance.
Step 9: Insert the pillow. Open the pillowcase and insert your pillow, making sure it fills out the corners.
Step 10: Finish the opening. If you prefer a hidden seam, you can fold the raw edges of the opening inside and sew them closed by hand or with a sewing machine. Alternatively, you can use a decorative stitch to sew along the opening, securing it while adding a decorative touch.
And there you have it! You have successfully made a pillowcase following these step-by-step instructions. Enjoy your new pillowcase!

Different Sizes and Types of Pillowcases

There are several sizes and varieties of pillowcases. Here is a brief summary:

Sizes:

Standard: 20 inches by 30 inches
Queen: 20 by 36 inches
King: 20 by 40 inches
Euro: 26 inches by 26 inches

Types of Pillowcase

Standard Pillowcase: A normal standard pillowcase is 20 inches by 30 inches in dimension, and it fits the majority of standard-sized pillows.

Queen Pillowcase: A queen pillowcase is 20 inches by 34 inches, making it somewhat bigger than a regular pillowcase. It is made to accommodate queen-sized pillows.

King Pillowcase: The largest size is a king pillowcase, which is 20 inches by 40 inches in size. It is made to accommodate king-sized pillows.

Envelope Pillowcase: An envelope pillowcase is a particular kind of pillowcase that doesn’t need to have the open end sewn. Instead, the cloth is envelope-style folded over and tucked in. This makes washing and removing the pillowcase simple.

Flanged Pillowcase: A flanged pillowcase features an ornamental border or “flange” across the edges. This gives the pillowcase a dash of class and flair.

Oxford Pillowcase: An Oxford pillowcase often includes a decorative border that is 5 inches broad around the edge. This provides the cushion with a more solid appearance and can enhance your bedding by adding a burst of color or design.

Tips for How to Make a Pillowcase

Making a pillowcase is a fun and rewarding sewing project. Here are some tips to help you make a pillowcase

Measure your pillow: Start by measuring your pillow to determine the size of the fabric you will need. Add an extra inch to the measurements for seam allowance.

Choose your fabric: Select a fabric of your choice. Cotton or flannel fabrics are commonly used for pillowcases as they are soft and comfortable.

Cut the fabric: Use your measurements to cut two pieces of fabric, one for the front and one for the back of the pillowcase. Make sure the fabric is cut to the desired length and width.

Prepare the fabric: Fold each piece of fabric in half, right sides facing each other. Pin the sides and bottom edges together to secure them before sewing.

Sew the edges: Using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, sew along the pinned edges of the fabric, leaving the top edge open. Use a straight stitch and backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the seams.

Finish the edges: To prevent fraying, finish the raw edges of the fabric by using a serger or a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine.

Turn the pillowcase right side out: Carefully turn the pillowcase right side out, pushing out the corners with a blunt object such as a chopstick. Press the pillowcase with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles.

Add decorative touches: If desired, you can embellish the pillowcase with decorative elements such as trim, lace, or embroidery.

Insert the pillow: Open the top edge of the pillowcase and insert your pillow. Make sure the pillow fits snugly inside the case.

Close the opening: Fold the raw edges of the top opening inward and pin them together. Sew along the edge to close the opening, using a straight stitch or a decorative stitch.

Final touches: Give the pillowcase a final press with an iron to ensure it looks neat and crisp. Your pillowcase is now ready to use!

How to Sew a Quilted Sham Pillow Step-By-Step Guide

How to sew a pillowcase with a flap?

Two pieces of fabric should be cut to the required size, the sides and bottom sewn together with a 1/4 inch seam allowance, and the top edge folded twice to form a hem. On the hemmed edge, sew a button and buttonhole to make a flap.

How to make a pillowcase with a cuff?

Two pieces of fabric should be cut to the required size, and a third piece should be cut for the cuff. Sew the pillowcase’s sides and bottom together before folding the cuff in half and sewing the short ends of the cuff together. A decorative border is made by folding the cuff after it has been attached to the pillowcase.

How to make a pillowcase with French seams?

A 1/4 inch seam allowance should be used when sewing the sides and bottom of two fabric pieces that have been cut to the required size. With the right sides of the pillowcase facing each other and a 3/8 inch seam allowance, stitch the sides and bottom once more after trimming the seam allowance. Then, fold the pillowcase inside out.

How to sew a bordered pillowcase?

Cut two fabric pieces to the required size, and then cut a third fabric piece for the border. Sew the pillowcase’s sides and bottom together before adding the border to the top edge. For decorative edging, fold the border over.

How to make a burrito pillowcase?

To make a hem, lay a piece of cloth flat and then fold the top edge over twice. Roll the bottom fabric up and over the top fabric like a burrito after placing the second piece of fabric on top of the hemmed edge. Pull the interior cloth out of the burrito after sewing the sides together.

How to make a pillowcase with no raw edges?

No-raw-edge pillowcase construction instructions: A 1/2 inch seam allowance should be used when sewing two fabric pieces together after they have been cut to the proper size. Before turning the pillowcase inside out and sewing the sides and bottom once again with a 1/4 inch seam allowance, trim the seam allowance. This will protect the raw meat.

How to Sew a Pillow by Hand Step By Step Perfect Guide 2023

Conclusion

sewing a pillowcase is a quick and satisfying sewing project that may give your bedroom a unique touch. You may make a lovely pillowcase that properly fits your pillow by selecting high-quality fabric, pre-washing it, taking precise measurements, and utilizing precise cutting methods.

If you take the time to press your seams and cut any extra fabric, you can give your pillowcase a polished and professional look. French seams, ornamental accents, and personalized touches may boost the appearance of your pillowcase.

Whether you’re sewing a single pillowcase or an entire set, take pleasure in the process and have fun designing a warm and welcoming bedroom.