How to Measure Material for Daybed Bolster Pillows

Bolster pillows are the cushion of choice for most daybeds.

Bolster pillows are the cushion of choice for daybeds, most often seen in pairs, one at either end of the daybed. Typically the bolster pillow will be the same length as the daybed is deep, so the size of your daybed will determine the size of your pillows. Once you have your bolster pillow forms and you plan to make your own covers, getting the measurements correct can be puzzling. There's an easy way to measure the material needed for a bolster pillow.

Things You'll Need

• Bolster pillow form
• Measuring tape
• Fabric
• Scissors
• Chalk

Instructions

1. Measure the circumference of the round end of your bolster pillow form. Measure the length of your bolster pillow form.

2. Add an inch to the circumference measurement for seam and zipper allowance, then cut a length of fabric to the circumference plus an inch by the length. You don't need to add a seam allowance on the length measurement if you use 1/4-inch seams, as the cover should be slightly smaller than the pillow form in the beginning, so as the pillow form looses fullness the cover will not look saggy.

3. Place the bolster pillow form on the fabric on-end and trace around the end with chalk. Repeat so you have two chalked circles the size of the bolster form ends. Cut around the circles for the bolster pillow ends. Again, you don't need to add a seam allowance, as the pillow form will shrink to fit the cover. You can now sew the bolster pillows for your day bed.

References

• Upholster.com: How To Make A Round Bolster Cushion