How to Make a Pillow Sham: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are You looking to add a personalized touch to your bedroom decor? Making your own pillow sham can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of creating a pillow sham from scratch. From taking measurements to stitching and finishing, we will cover all the necessary steps to help you Create a beautiful pillow sham that complements your style. So, Gather your materials and let's get started!

Introduction

Pillow shams are decorative covers that go over pillows, adding an extra layer of style to your bedding. They are a simple yet effective way to enhance the overall look of your bedroom. By making your own pillow sham, you have complete control over the design, fabric, and size, allowing you to create a unique piece that matches your personal taste.

Materials Needed

Before we dive into the process, let's gather all the materials you'll need for this project. Here's a list of what you'll require:

Fabric (preferably quilting cotton)
Ruler or measuring tape
Fabric scissors
Pins
Sewing machine
Iron and ironing board
Fabric marking pen or chalk

Taking Measurements

The first step in making a pillow sham is to determine the size of your pillow. Measure the length and width of your pillow using a measuring tape. For this tutorial, we will use a standard pillow size of 26 inches in length and 20 inches in width as an example.

Cutting the Fabric

Now that you have your measurements, it's time to cut the fabric for your pillow sham. Start with the front piece, which will be slightly larger than the pillow Dimensions to create a frame. Add an inch for seam allowance and an additional four inches for the frame-out. For our example, the front piece should measure 31 inches by 25 inches.

Next, cut the back piece of the pillow sham. It will have an envelope closure, so it will require some extra fabric. Take the same length measurement as the front piece and add one inch for seam allowance and four inches for the frame-out. Additionally, add four inches to the width measurement to accommodate the overlap of the closure. In our example, the back piece should measure 35 inches by 25 inches.

Hemming the Back Panel

To create the envelope closure, we need to hem the back panel of the pillow sham. Fold the longer edge of the back panel towards the wrong side of the fabric by a quarter of an inch and press it in place. Then, fold it again by a quarter of an inch and press it once more. Repeat this process for both back panel pieces.

Layering and Pinning

Now it's time to layer the fabric pieces. Place the front panel with the pretty side facing up. Take one of the back panel pieces and position it with the pretty side facing down, aligning the raw edges. The hemmed edge should be placed in the center. Repeat this step with the Second back panel piece. The overlap of the back panels will create the envelope closure. Pin all around the edges to secure the layers together.

Stitching and Trimming

Using a sewing machine, stitch all around the edges of the pillow sham with a straight stitch and a half-inch seam allowance. Trim away the excess fabric from the corners to reduce bulk and create sharp corners when the sham is turned right side out. Trim any excess Threads for a clean finish.

Creating the Frame

To give the pillow sham a decorative frame, measure two inches in from the outer edges of the sham and mark the lines with a fabric marking pen or chalk. This will be the stitching line for the frame. Stitch along these lines with a straight stitch, following your markings. Once you're done stitching, use an iron to press the fabric, which will make the markings disappear.

Pressing and Finishing

The final step is to press the pillow sham to ensure a crisp and professional look. Start by pressing it from the wrong side to remove any wrinkles. Flip it over and secure the overlap of the back panels by pinning it. This will help keep everything in place while you Trace and stitch the lines of the frame. Finally, give the sham one last press to complete the finishing touches.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully made your own pillow sham from start to finish. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create custom pillow shams that perfectly match your bedroom decor. Experiment with different fabrics, colors, and Patterns to add a personal touch to your space. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and functional with your own hands. Happy crafting!

Highlights

Learn how to make a pillow sham from scratch
Create a personalized and stylish addition to your bedroom decor
Choose your own fabric, design, and size
Step-by-step instructions with detailed measurements and techniques
Hemming and layering techniques for a professional finish
Create a decorative frame for added style
Pressing and finishing tips for a polished look

FAQ

Q: Can I use any fabric for making a pillow sham? A: While you can use various fabrics for a pillow sham, quilting cotton is recommended due to its durability and easy handling during stitching.

Q: Is it necessary to have an envelope closure for the back panel? A: The envelope closure provides a convenient way to insert and remove the pillow. It also adds a decorative touch to the sham.

Q: Can I wash the pillow sham after it's completed? A: Yes, most fabrics used for pillow shams are machine washable. Be sure to check the care instructions for the specific fabric you choose.

Q: Can I customize the size of the pillow sham to fit a larger pillow? A: Absolutely! The measurements provided in this tutorial are just examples. Feel free to adjust them to suit your desired pillow size.

Q: Can I use a serger instead of a sewing machine for this project? A: Yes, if you have access to a serger, you can use it to stitch and finish the pillow sham all at once, which will save time and create a neater edge.

Q: Are pillow shams only used for decorative purposes? A: While pillow shams are primarily used for decorative purposes, they can also offer some protection to the pillow and extend its lifespan.

Q: Can I add additional embellishments, such as piping or embroidery, to the pillow sham? A: Absolutely! Adding piping, embroidery, or other decorative elements can enhance the overall look of the pillow sham and make it uniquely yours.

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