Envelope Pillow Cover Tutorial done 3 WAYS! / Beginner Sewing Tutorial, by Tamara's Joy // Sewing Channel on YouTube. 11 min 50 s.
- Video length
- 11 min 50 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Measure your pillow form and cut one back panel about the same width and two thirds of the height. Cut a second back panel the same width and one third of the height, adding seam allowance to both.
Cut the front panel to the full width and height of the pillow form plus seam allowance. Press a hem on one long edge of each back panel, fold it over again and stitch it down.
Lay the front panel right side up. Place the larger back panel on top with its hem facing inward, then the smaller panel over it with its hem facing inward. The hems overlap in the middle.
Pin or clip all four edges and sew around the whole square with a straight stitch and your seam allowance.
Trim the seam allowance with pinking shears, or sew a zig zag stitch along the raw edges, to stop the fabric fraying.
Clip the corners diagonally close to the stitching, turn the cover right side out through the envelope opening and push the corners out with a turning tool. Press the cover.
For a long lumbar pillow, use the same method but cut the back panels wider so the overlap stays generous on the short sides.
For a whole cloth cover, fold one large piece of fabric so the ends overlap at the back, then sew the two side seams and turn it right side out.
To add a flange, sew a second smaller rectangle of fabric behind the front panel before joining the pieces, so a border shows around the edge.
Insert the pillow form through the envelope opening and smooth the cover into the corners.
Tips and common mistakes
Make the back overlap at least 4 inches so the pillow form cannot peek out.
Press every hem before sewing, as neat hems make the finished cover look store bought.
Use a walking foot on thick or slippery fabric to keep the layers from shifting.
Keep your seam allowance consistent on all four sides or the cover will sit crooked.
Questions
Do I need a zip for an envelope pillow cover?
No. The two overlapping back panels form the opening, so the cover slips on and off without any fastening.
How much fabric do I need for one pillow cover?
For a standard square pillow, about half a yard of 44 inch wide fabric is enough. Buy extra if you want a matching flange or a long lumbar size.
Can I wash an envelope pillow cover?
Yes, once the cover is finished and the seams are neat. Turn it inside out and wash on a gentle cycle, then press while slightly damp.
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.
