How to Sew a Flanged Edged Pillow

The crisp, clean lines of this flanged edged pillow will imply it was professionally made, even if you are a sewing novice. The construction process gives you a sturdy flanged edge and the versatility of removing the pillow form for easy machine washing. You could quite simply create a flanged edge cover for any holiday or decor theme. Because of its flat flanged edge, it is also perfect for masculine bachelor decor for those hard-to-please men in your life.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 14-inch pillow form
• 1 1/4 yards pillow fabric
• Sewing machine
• Scissors
• Matching thread
• Pins
• Iron
• Velcro-optional

1. Cut one 22-inch square from the fabric for the front pillow panel.

2. Cut two 18-inch x 22-inch pieces of fabric for the back panels of the pillow. These will overlap and become the opening for the flanged edge pillow.

3. Sew a 1/2-inch hem along one 22"-inch side of both pillow-back pieces and press smooth.

4. Lay the front pillow panel, right side up, on a flat surface. Layer on top, with right sides down, the two back pillow pieces. Overlap the hemmed edges in the middle and line up the raw edges on the sides of the pillow panels. Pin the layers together.

5. Stitch around the edge completely, using a 2-inch seam allowance. Do not leave an opening.

6. Clip the corners diagonally. Turn the flanged edge pillow right side out and press. Use the scissor tips, if necessary, to make sure the corner points are crisp.

7. Topstitch a 2-inch border around the pillow cover, creating the flanged edge. Sew from the edge of one pillow side to the opposite edge, on all four sides. The stitches should create a square in each corner. Clip the threads.

8. Insert the pillow form through the hemmed opening in the back of the flanged edge pillow cover. If needed, sew a Velcro closure to the overlapping back panels.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with unconventional fabrics, such as suiting, corduroy or even recycled clothing.
• Flanged edge pillows can be made with pieced tops that will add personality to your finished project.
• When layering the front and back pieces, it does not matter which back piece overlaps the other.
• For variety, use two coordinating fabrics to design a pillow that is uniquely yours.
• Make a 2-inch seam allowance guide by measuring 2 inches from the needle and applying masking tape to the sewing machine.
• If desired, add embellishments to your pillow, such as buttons, charms, ribbon or trim.