How to Create DIY Decorative Pillows for Your Home
Decorative pillows can transform the look and feel of your living space, adding a touch of personality, color, and comfort. While store-bought options are convenient, creating your own DIY decorative pillows allows for customization and a sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the process of making beautiful, personalized pillows that enhance your home décor.
Why DIY Decorative Pillows?
Personalization
Creating your own pillows allows you to choose fabrics, patterns, and embellishments that reflect your personal style and match your home décor perfectly.
Cost-Effective
DIY pillows can be much more affordable than purchasing designer pillows, especially if you already have some materials on hand or find fabric remnants on sale.
Creative Expression
Making your own decorative pillows is a fun and creative project that can be a rewarding way to spend your time. It also gives you a unique opportunity to express your creativity.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary materials. Here’s a basic list to get you started:
Fabric: Choose fabrics that suit your taste and the room’s aesthetic. Cotton, linen, velvet, and canvas are popular choices.
Pillow Inserts: Available in various sizes, pillow inserts provide the shape and comfort for your decorative pillows.
Sewing Machine: While you can sew by hand, a sewing machine makes the process quicker and easier.
Thread: Match the thread color to your fabric for a seamless look or choose a contrasting color for a decorative effect.
Scissors: Sharp fabric scissors are essential for clean cuts.
Pins: Use pins to hold fabric pieces together before sewing.
Ruler or Measuring Tape: For precise measurements.
Iron: To press the fabric and seams.
Optional Embellishments: Buttons, trims, tassels, and fabric paint for added decoration.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating DIY Decorative Pillows
1. Choose Your Fabric
Select a fabric that complements your room’s décor. Consider the following tips:
Color and Pattern: Choose colors and patterns that match or contrast with your furniture and other decorative elements.
Texture: Think about the texture of the fabric and how it will feel and look in your space.
2. Measure and Cut the Fabric
Decide on the size of your pillows. Common sizes include 16x16, 18x18, and 20x20 inches. Add an extra inch to each side for seam allowance. For example, if you want a 16x16 inch pillow, cut two pieces of fabric to 17x17 inches each.
3. Prepare the Fabric
Before sewing, it’s important to prepare the fabric:
Wash and Iron: Wash the fabric to prevent shrinkage later. Iron it to remove wrinkles and make it easier to work with.
Cut the Pieces: Lay the fabric flat, measure carefully, and cut two identical pieces.
4. Pin and Sew the Fabric
With the right sides of the fabric facing each other, pin the pieces together along the edges. Leave a gap of about 4–5 inches on one side for inserting the pillow form.
Sewing: Using a sewing machine, sew along the edges with a half-inch seam allowance. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitches.
Trim Corners: Trim the corners diagonally to reduce bulk when you turn the pillow right side out.
5. Turn and Press
Turn the pillow cover right side out through the gap you left. Use a blunt tool like a chopstick to gently push out the corners for a crisp finish. Iron the seams flat for a polished look.
6. Insert the Pillow Form
Insert the pillow form into the cover, ensuring it fills out the corners and edges evenly.
7. Close the Opening
There are a few methods to close the opening:
Hand Stitching: Use a needle and thread to hand stitch the gap closed using a ladder stitch for an invisible finish.
Fabric Glue: For a no-sew option, use fabric glue to close the gap, holding it in place until the glue sets.
Adding Decorative Elements
Once you’ve mastered the basic pillow, consider adding decorative elements to make your pillows unique:
1. Buttons and Embellishments
Sew buttons, beads, or other embellishments onto the pillow for added interest. Arrange them in patterns or randomly for different effects.
2. Tassels and Fringe
Attach tassels or fringe to the edges of the pillow for a boho-chic look. These can be sewn or glued onto the fabric.
3. Fabric Paint and Stencils
Use fabric paint and stencils to create custom designs. This is a great way to add intricate patterns or personalized messages to your pillows.
4. Appliqué and Embroidery
For those with sewing skills, appliqué or embroidery can add a touch of artistry to your pillows. Create custom designs or monograms for a personalized touch.
Tips for Success
1. Start Simple
If you’re new to sewing, start with a basic pillow design before moving on to more complex projects. Simple square or rectangular pillows are a great way to practice.
2. Double-Check Measurements
Accurate measurements are crucial for a professional-looking pillow. Always double-check your measurements before cutting your fabric.
3. Experiment with Fabrics
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics and textures. Mixing and matching can create interesting and unique designs.
4. Keep it Fun
Enjoy the process! Creating DIY decorative pillows should be a fun and rewarding experience. Don’t stress about perfection — handmade items often have charming imperfections.
Conclusion
Creating DIY decorative pillows for your home is a fantastic way to personalize your space while enjoying a creative project. With the right materials and a little bit of effort, you can make beautiful, custom pillows that reflect your style and enhance your home décor. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to your living room, create a cozy reading nook, or give your bedroom a fresh look, DIY pillows are a versatile and cost-effective solution. So, gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and start making your own decorative pillows today!
