DIY Envelope Pillow Cover That Actually Looks Professional (No Zipper Required!), by Maribel Designs 4 U on YouTube. 10 min.
- Video length
- 10 min
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 7
What you need
Steps
Prewash and dry your quilting cotton, then press it flat so the finished cover will not shrink later.
Cut three pieces: one front panel 17 by 17 inches, and two back panels 17 inches wide by 13 inches tall.
Hem one long edge of each back panel. Fold half an inch to the wrong side, press, fold another half inch, press, then stitch close to the fold.
Lay the front panel right side up. Place the back panels right side down on top so the hemmed edges overlap in the middle, then pin all four sides.
Sew around the outer edge with a half inch seam allowance, backstitching at the start and the finish.
Clip the four corners diagonally, turn the cover right side out through the envelope opening, push the corners out and press.
Squeeze the 16 inch pillow insert through the overlapping opening and smooth the cover into place.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep the rotary cutter closed between cuts and cut away from your body; a sharp blade needs far less pressure than a dull one.
Backstitch at both ends of the outer seam so the cover does not split when you pull it over the insert.
Press every fold before you stitch it, because pinned hems slide and give wavy seams.
If your insert is very plump, cut all panels half an inch larger instead of forcing the fabric.
Questions
How much fabric do I need for one cover?
About 3/4 yard of 44 inch wide quilting cotton is enough for one 16 inch envelope cover. Buy extra if you want a matching pair.
What seam allowance should I use?
Half an inch all around gives a snug fit for a 16 inch insert. A wider seam makes the cover too tight to close neatly.
Do I need a zipper?
No. The two overlapping back panels form the opening, so the insert slips in and out without any hardware.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
