What Is Tufting Pillows?

Tufts are indentations made by weaving into the front and back of a pillow.

Something as small as a decorative pillow can tie a room together. If you are decorating a room, final additions such as tufting on a pillow can draw visitors’ eyes to your favorite pieces. Tufting pillows is the act of adding tufts to an existing pillow, which you can do with a few supplies from the craft or upholstery store.

Identification

Tufting pillows refers to a form of weaving in which thread is inserted into a primary base, such as a button. This is normally done for decorative purposes, and it can be done on several household items, not just pillows. Pillows that are tufted are usually not used for sleeping, as the button used as a base could be uncomfortable. A button is threaded into the center of a pillow, and this makes the rest of the pillow indent around the button.

Benefits

Tufting can give items a vintage feel, yet a tufted pillow can also complement modern homes, as the style has grown in popularity. Also, tufted pillows can allow for accents that can complement other decorations. For instance, the button used in tufting can match or coordinate with other bedding or furniture, which can tie a room together.

Considerations

Tufted pillows can add considerable cost to a bedroom or other décor set, and they are sometimes made of more expensive materials. Also, too many tufted pillows can make a room look overly done, because many people appreciate simplicity in decorating. If your pillows sit stagnant, the area that pools around the button can become dirty easily or collect dust. To prevent this, fluff and move your tufted pillows often. Avoid eating around the pillows so that crumbs do not get stuck in the fabric folds around the button.

The Process

You can add tufting to most pillows you already have, or you can purchase a pillow for the purposes of tufting. Thread a darning or doll-maker’s needle with upholstery thread. Push the needle through the front of the pillow where you would like your tufting. Push through the back of the pillow and back up through the pillow to the top where you started. Place the button where you want it, and sew through the back loop of the button. Repeat the process a few times until the button is secure. Tie a knot and cut the upholstery thread. You can add as many tuftings as you would like; however, most tufted pillows have one tufted button placed directly in the center.

References

• Online Fabric Store: Making Amy Butler Pillows, Part III