Learn to sew custom pillows on your own with this tie closure tutorial. Includes step-by-step directions that are easy to follow. Only straight line sewing required!
Pillows. Who doesn’t love them? They are, in my opinion, the universal go-to decorating accessory. Even if, secretly, you think they are a pain, chances are you still have several on your sofa! One of the prettiest sites ever is a sofa with 4 or 5 perfectly placed and puffed throw pillows. Switching out your pillow covers is a great way to change the look of a room…but it can be pricey. Custom pillows are not cheap…but if you learn to sew your own, the sky is the limit.
This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure statement.
Learn To Sew Custom Pillows
I’m sharing how I make my own custom pillows, so if you have even a lick of sewing skills, you can learn to sew your own. This tutorial is for a 20 x 20 pillow cover, but I am including the measurements for a smaller one at the end of the post. I use twill tape for the ties, but ribbon works very well too.
Basically what you are making is a bag with ties. This is the exact method I use to make my tote bags. Depending on the look you want, you can use two different fabrics: one for the pillow cover body and one for the facing. Coordinate your ties with the facing. The distance between the ties is really a matter of taste. Put them where ever you think they look best. I have also made pillow covers with just one tie in the center.
Measurements for an 18 x 18 pillow cover
- One piece of fabric measuring 19 in. wide x 43 in. long. About 2 yards twill tape or ribbon.
Grain sack sources
- My favorite grain sack seller on eBay
- Antique grain sacks on eBay
- Antique grain sacks on Etsy (the Etsy search filter included other grain sack items so you need to sift through to find the actual sacks.)
- Grain sack inspired new fabric
Ticking sources
What material are you using for cover?
Hi Lisa…can you tell me which pillow you are referring to?
How much fabric would you need for a 26×26 pillow?
Thank you for this tutorial!
Your tutorial of the pillows are clear enough even I could make them!!! Thanks for your desire to help those of us get the ole sewing machine out and make these lovely pillows.
Ann, thank you so much for the clear instructions! And thank you too for the weekly inspiration!
Thank you for your tutorial, I usually make my pillows with zippers but this is a great way with ties foe a different look. I usually use the feather, down inserts, do you use those or the synthetic down, they seem more economical but don’t know how they bounce back after being squished.
Have you had experience using those?
Betty
Hi Betty…I don’t use the synthetic down. I am somewhat of a insert snob, and only use real down inserts. I wish I could be more helpful!