How to Make a Standard Pillowcase

Making a standard pillowcase is a simple sewing project, even for beginners. You can make pillowcases to match your comforter or other design elements in your bedroom. It is especially useful if you want to match vintage bedding, which often doesn't have coordinating pillowcases. You can turn a complementing sheet into a pillowcase to match. For jumbo pillows and body pillows, the mechanics of making the cases are exactly the same, just measure the pillows and add 10 inches to the length and a 3-inch seam allowance to the width.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fabric
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Fabric pencil
• Pins

1. Measure and cut 1 piece of fabric that is 45 inches by 36 inches. Fold in half lengthwise and pin together, right sides facing.

2. Sew along one short end and one long end of the pillowcase, leaving the other short end open.

3. Turn the pillowcase right side out. Fold the open end down 4 inches. Fold the unfinished edge of the fabric up and under this by 1 inch, so that it is not visible. Pin in place. Use a top stitch to hold the fold in place.

4. Trim any thread ends. Iron the pillowcase on medium-high heat.

Tips & Warnings

• Sew a ribbon around the top 4-inch hem where you top stitched to add a decorative touch.
• Always check your needle before machine sewing to avoid breakage.

Resources

• Ideas and instructions for making pillows of all shapes and sizes.