How to Decorate Pillowcases

Decorating pillow cases is an enjoyable way to personalize your bed linens. Pillow cases can be embroidered, dyed and otherwise embellished. The easiest way to decorate a pillowcase, though, is with fabric paint. Whether you plan to paint freehand, finger paint, sponge or stencil, your decorated pillowcase is a keepsake to treasure.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 20x30-inch piece of cardboard
• Standard pillow case
• Fabric paint
• Chalk
• Paint Brushes or Sponges

Decorating a Pillow Case with Fabric Paint

1. Prepare your work surface by covering with newspaper or cardboard. Taping the newspaper down will keep it from shifting as you work, especially if you're working with children.

2. Slide a 20x30-inch piece of cardboard inside of the pillowcase. This will prevent the fabric paint from transferring to the other side of the pillow. If your pillowcase is a different size, cut your cardboard to fit.

3. Make a chalk line down the center of the pillowcase, running horizontally and again vertically. They intersect in the middle of the pillowcase, making it easy for you to keep your design centered.

4. Place your stencil in place if you're using a stencil, otherwise begin applying the fabric paint with a sponge or paint brush.

5. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly on one side before turning it over to paint the other side. Alternatively, you could leave the other side blank.

Tips & Warnings

• If you haven't used fabric paint before, practice on a Tshirt or old sheet. To copy an image from a coloring book or drawing, lay it inside of the pillow case and trace it.
• Most fabric paint won't stand up to repeated electric or gas drying. Always follow manufacturer's instructions for care.

References

• Decorating Pillowcases