How to Sew a Pillow Cover With a Zipper
Pillowcases add decorative flair and a layer of protection to your pillows and cushions. Make a cover to suit each season and holiday or keep it simple with bold colors that work year round. Add a zipper to prevent covers from sliding off. Use a small dress zipper for a hidden finish and comfort. A zippered case may also be used to make an adjustable pillow; just add or remove fluff as needed. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Cut out two 10-inch squares of fabric. Add appliques, embroidery or quilting at this time.
-
2
Place one piece of fabric on top of the other and align them with the right sides facing in.
-
-
3
Select a location for the zipper based on the pattern; if the fabric design has a definite direction use that to determine the bottom edge.
-
4
Measure 1 inch down from the left and right corners of this side. Mark an 8-inch length in the center of the side where the zipper will go.
-
5
Sew from the edge of the fabric to the mark. Stitch forward and backward over the first and last stitches to lock them in place. Be sure to leave about a 1/2-inch allowance between the seam and the edge.
-
6
Open the fabric and spread it flat, decorative side down. Press open the seam so that the 1/2-inch allowance is spread open on either side of the stitches. Use a basting stitch to hold these flaps in place. Make removal of the basting stitch easier by using a thread that stands out against your fabric.
-
7
Place the zipper on the center of the seam, lining it up with the hole. Pin or sew basting stitches by hand to hold the zipper in place.
-
8
Sew a straight stitch around all four sides of the zipper. Pass back and forth over the beginning and ends of the seam to secure. Ensure the top and base of the zipper are well-sewn as they will be put under a lot of stress during use.
-
9
Sew along the remaining sides of the pillow. When making the seam, stitch back and fourth over the beginning and end of each side to lock the stitches in place.
-
10
Cut the basting stitches.
-
11
Gently guide the zipper open from the back by gripping the pull with tweezers or your nails.
-
12
Invert the case.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
