How to Make Decorative Edged Pillow Cases

If you've seen the cost of fancy edged pillow cases lately, then you know why you might want to make them yourself. There's nothing more than straight stitched seams involved and an eye for pretty fabrics.

The finished pillow case will measure 21"x31" which is the correct size for a standard pillow.

Appliqued and lace fabrics can be combined with solid cottons to create interesting decorative borders for the case. Be sure to machine wash and dry all fabric before cutting to size. That includes any special trim you may have purchased.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Solid fabric
• Decorative fabric
• Sewing machine & notions
• Trims (optional)

1. Each case will require two fabrics, the decorative and the plain. The plain should measure 43 1/4" by 35 1/2". The decorative fabric should measure 43 1/4" by 7". If you are inserting a narrow trim into the border cut it to 43 1/4" long.

2. (If you are attaching a narrow trim to the case fabric and not using a decorative second fabric, skip to step #4.)
   
   With wrong sides together, line up the 43 1/4" raw edge of the decorative fabric with the raw edge of the case fabric. Baste the pieces together 1/2" from the edge. This will hold them in place while you're working.

3. 
    
   Basted on one edge, turned on the other.

   Fold the opposite edge of the decorative fabric under 1/2". Press and sew close to the crease with a permanent stitch. Your decorative fabric and your case fabric are now attached together on both edges.

4. Fold the basted edge under 1/2" against the right side of the fabric and press. If you are not using a second fabric, there will be no basted edge and you will fold over the raw edge. Repeat this step, only this time turn it under 3" and press. (If you're attaching a trim, pin it to the pressed edge.) Stitch across the length close to the crease. This will result in a 3" border.

5. 
    

   Both the right and wrong side of the fabric now have a 3" decorative border. Create the side seam: Line up the two 43 1/4" raw edges with the wrong side of fabric together. Sew a 1/2" inch seam. Create the bottom seam: Sew 1/2" along the remaining raw edge. Trim both seams to 1/4".

6. To finish the case, turn it wrong side out. As before, sew the side and bottom seams .50" from the edge. This will enclose the raw edges. Turn the case right side out and press both seams flat.

Resources

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[paulo55]

on 10/28/2009 How to Make Decorative Edged Pillow Cases. Excellent article! Great information and easy directions to follow! 5*