DIY Throw Pillows: Your Ultimate Guide to Creating Decorative Throw Pillows
When they think about home decor, DIY throw pillows may come to mind as an easy and creative way to spruce things up. Many people love the idea of personalizing their space, and throw pillows provide a perfect avenue for customization. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global home decor market size was valued at USD 663.1 billion in 2020 (source: Grand View Research).
Materials Needed
To get started on your DIY throw pillow project, you will need the following materials:
- Fabric of your choice
- Thread
- Sewing machine or needle
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Stuffing material (polyester fiberfill or old cotton)
- Ruler
- Chalk or fabric marker
- Zippers or buttons (optional)
Steps to Make DIY Throw Pillows
Creating a DIY throw pillow involves several steps. Following these steps will help ensure that your throw pillow turns out as beautiful as you imagine.
Step 1: Choose Your Fabric
Select a high-quality fabric that suits your home decor. Cotton, linen, and velvet are popular choices. Make sure the fabric matches the color scheme of the room where you intend to place the pillow.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Fabric
Use the measuring tape to measure the size of your throw pillow. Add an additional inch to each side for the seam allowance. Mark the dimensions on the fabric using chalk or a fabric marker. Cut the fabric along the marked lines.
For example, if you want an 18×18 inch throw pillow, you should cut the fabric to 19×19 inches to accommodate the seams.
| Pillow Size | Fabric Cut Size |
|---|---|
| 16×16 inches | 17×17 inches |
| 18×18 inches | 19×19 inches |
| 20×20 inches | 21×21 inches |
Step 3: Sew the Fabric Pieces Together
Place the two pieces of fabric together with the right sides facing each other. Pin the edges to hold them in place. Sew around the edges using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, leaving a small gap (about 5 inches) to insert the stuffing.
Step 4: Turn the Pillow Case Right Side Out
Once the sewing is complete, use the gap left unsewn to turn the pillow case right side out. Use a pencil or a chopstick to push out the corners so they are nice and crisp.
Step 5: Insert the Stuffing
Fill the pillow case with your stuffing material. Polyester fiberfill is commonly used, but you can also use pieces of old clothes or cotton. Make sure to distribute the stuffing evenly to avoid lumps.
Step 6: Close the Gap
After stuffing the pillow to your desired fluffiness, close the gap by hand stitching it shut or using a sewing machine. If you prefer to have a removable cover, you can sew in a zipper or buttons.
Personalizing Your DIY Throw Pillow
Once the basic structure of the pillow is complete, you can add various decorative elements to make it unique. Some popular options include:
- Embroidery
- Appliqué
- Fabric paint
- Beads or sequins
Be as creative as you want! Your DIY throw pillow is a reflection of your personal style.
Key Takeaways
- DIY throw pillows are a fantastic way to customize home decor.
- Select high-quality fabric that matches your home’s color scheme.
- Measure and cut your fabric with an additional inch for seams.
- Sew, stuff, and close your pillow using simple sewing techniques.
- Add personal touches with embroidery, appliqué, or fabric paint.
FAQs
- Q: What type of fabric is best for DIY throw pillows?
- A: Cotton, linen, and velvet are good options because they are durable and often washable.
- Q: How can I make my pillow extra fluffy?
- A: Use high-quality polyester fiberfill and ensure even distribution of the stuffing.
- Q: Do I need a sewing machine to make DIY throw pillows?
- A: While a sewing machine makes the process faster, you can also sew the pillow by hand.
- Q: Can I make the pillow cover removable?
- A: Yes, you can add zippers or buttons to make the cover removable for easy washing.
- Q: How do I make sure my pillows are the right size?
- A: Always measure and add an inch for seams. Follow the standard sizes table to guide you.
With these instructions and tips, anyone can create their own DIY throw pillows at home. It’s not just a fun project, but also a way to personalize and enhance home decor.