How to Make a Firm Couch Pillow

Firm couch pillows are preferred by some people who choose to have more back support in their seating selections. Modern couch depths are deeper than in previous years, and a shorter person may utilize couch pillows to allow them to lean backward and keep their feet on the floor. A firmer pillow will provide more comfort to people who do not like the softer alternatives. A firm pillow looks attractive on the couch, and you can choose any fabric. You have a greater selection of fabrics if you choose to make your own.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• 4-inch thick foam rubber sheeting
• Cotton stuffing
• Scissors
• Muslin
• Pen
• Fabric
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Thread

Instructions

Make the Pillow Form

1. Determine the size of the firm pillow you will make. Add 1 inch to the width and another 1 inch to the length.

2. Cut two squares of muslin this size.

3. Cut a 4-inch wide strip to use for boxing. The length of the strip will be the length of the squares perimeter plus 1 inch for seam allowance.

4. Pin the boxing strip to one of the squares, right side together. Begin 4 inches from the corner.

5. Stitch the boxing strip and square together around all sides, leaving 1/2 inch of the boxing strip loose for the seam.

6. Repeat for the other square except leave one end open. Be certain the squares line up and that your strip ends at the same location as the other square.

7. Trim seams. Clip corners. Turn right-side out.

8. Place the foam rubber square inside.

9. Pull the muslin closed; pin and sew closed by hand using a whipstitch. The pillow form should be as firm as you want at this point. If you need more firmness, add a layer of cotton stuffing until you reach the desired firmness. If you do not require pins to hold the muslin closed while you sew, your form is not as firm as it could be.

Make the Cover

1. Measure the pillow form length and width. Add 1 inch to each measurement to allow for the seam. This is your square measurements.

2. Cut two squares of print fabric the size of the square measurements. Position your fabric to accommodate for a print layout preference.

3. Measure the depth and perimeter of your pillow form. Add 1 inch to the depth and perimeter measurements for the seam allowance. Cut one boxing strip this size.

4. Pin the boxing strip edge around the top square and stitch.

5. Pin the other edge of the boxing strip around the bottom square, being sure to line up the squares.

6. Sew around three sides of the square.

7. Trim edges. Clip corners. Turn.

8. Insert the firm pillow form.

9. Hand stitch the fourth seam closed.

Tips & Warnings

• Making the pillow yourself allows you to make over-sized pillows that are typically very pricey for only a few dollars.

• Foam rubber deteriorates faster than cotton stuffing material.

References

• Pattern Making