One way to achieve a quick and easy refresh for your home is to switch out pillows and throws each season. Instead of buying all new ones, let me show you how to make a lovely sweater pillow that lends texture, style and comfort to your living space.
New to sewing? Pillow covers are a great project for beginners. So if you have a sewing machine and 20 minutes to spare, then this is the project for you!
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- old sweater / thrift store sweater
- needle / thread
- straight pins
- scissors
- measuring tape
- old pillow / new pillow form
{step 1} Cut off the sleeves and set them aside.
{step 2} If you’re recycling an old pillow, measure it from seam to seam. A new pillow form will have its measurements on the package. Add 1″ to the measurements for a seam allowance.
My pillow measured 20″ wide by 12″ high. I went ahead and used the full width of my sweater for 21″ and measured from the top of the sweater cuff to 13″. If your sweater is stretchy, you may not need as much of a seam allowance. You want the pillow to fit snuggly, but not pull too tightly.
{step 3} Starting at the side seam of the sweater, measure and cut to size.
Here’s a tip: Instead of cutting two separate pieces of fabric, use the sewing that’s already done on one side. It’s a time-saver and a great way to ensure your pattern is properly aligned.
{step 4} Pin right sides together and sew the other three sides using a basic running stitch on a sewing machine. Leave a small opening about 3-5″ along one side in order to turn out and stuff the pillow through. Give the areas around the opening a couple back stitches for reinforcement.
{step 5} Trim the corners and any excess bulk beyond the seams with scissors.
{step 6} Turn right side out through the opening and gently pop the corners out with your finger or a pen cap. Iron seams flat and stuff with pillow form.
{step 7} Hand sew the opening shut with a ladder or invisible stitch…
… and ooh and aah at your cozy new pillow!
Even my dog approves.
But wait! There’s more… do you remember the sweater sleeves we put to the side at the beginning? Re-purpose them as stylish leg warmers or boot socks/cuffs!
I liked these cable knit ones as is, but you can certainly dress them up with decorative lace and fun buttons.
For video fans, check out this tutorial I made for Hometalk.
Thanks for reading! — v.
Well, here’s what I promised: http://obraznicaturi.com/how-to-turn-old-knits-and-yarns-into-cozy-pillow-covers/
But I looove the white sweater that you had for your project. I wonder if I could indetify and copy the pattern…
You are right; I love your additions! They are so fun and festive! I have a couple more in the hopper so I may give them a bit more dazzle, too! The white sweater I used for my pillow was Macy’s Charter Club brand, size XL. I found it at my local thrift store for $4. Looking forward to sharing more projects with you, Gabi!
You must be my twin sister from another mother :)) I cut two old sweaters the other day to craft the same thing. Too bad my sewing machine broke and had to take a break. I definitely have to come back here and show you my results. Mine have a little add on, but I’m sure you’ll like them too. :)
And I also crafted a tic tac toe set last summer, in Greece, on the stones I found on the beach. :))
Keep up the good work! I love your projects!
Yes, Gabi! I love meeting like-minded friends via this blog! #greatminds Can’t wait to see your add-on — sounds like fun! Thanks so much for reading and sharing your thoughts with me!
I’m happy I found you! I’ll be back soon with my tips :) Have a great weekend!