how to sew a round pillow

3 min read 05-02-2025

Creating a round pillow is a rewarding sewing project, perfect for beginners and experienced sewers alike. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step tutorial on how to sew a round pillow, including choosing your materials, cutting the fabric, and finishing touches. Whether you're making a decorative accent pillow or a cozy, comfy cushion, this guide will walk you through the process. Let's get started!

Choosing Your Materials

Before you begin sewing your round pillow, gather your materials. The choices you make will influence the final look and feel of your pillow.

Fabrics

Outer Fabric: Select a fabric that suits your desired style. Cotton, linen, and velvet are popular choices. Consider the weight and texture – a heavier fabric will create a firmer pillow. For a beginner, a medium-weight cotton is ideal.
Inner Fabric (optional): Using a contrasting inner fabric can add visual interest. It's also a good idea if your outer fabric is delicate.
Filling: Choose a filling that provides the desired level of firmness. Polyester fiberfill is a common and inexpensive choice. You can also use down or feather alternatives for a softer pillow.

Tools and Supplies

Scissors: A pair of sharp fabric scissors will ensure clean cuts.
Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are crucial for a well-proportioned pillow.
Pins: Use plenty of pins to secure fabric pieces together before sewing.
Sewing Machine: A sewing machine will make the sewing process much faster and easier. You can hand-sew, but it's more time-consuming.
Needle and Thread: Choose a needle appropriate for your fabric.
Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing seams creates a professional finish.
Pattern (optional): A round pillow pattern simplifies the cutting process. You can create one yourself or find free templates online.

Creating Your Round Pillow Pattern

You can make your own round pillow pattern or find premade ones online. If you want to create your own, here's how:

Decide on the final diameter of your pillow. Add approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) for seam allowance.
Draw a circle: Use a compass, a plate, or a bowl as a guide to draw the larger circle on your paper pattern.
Cut out the circle: Carefully cut the circle, this will be your pattern piece.

Cutting the Fabric

With your pattern ready, it's time to cut your fabric:

Fold your fabric: Fold your fabric in half, right sides facing.
Pin the pattern: Pin the pattern to the fabric, ensuring the edge of the circle is along the fold.
Cut the fabric: Carefully cut around the pattern. You should now have two identical semi-circles.

Sewing the Pillow

Follow these steps to sew your round pillow:

Pin the fabric: Place the two semi-circles together, right sides facing, matching the edges. Pin carefully along the curved edge.
Sew the pieces: Sew along the curved edge, using a seam allowance of about ½ inch (1.25 cm). Leave a gap of approximately 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) along the edge for turning. This gap will allow you to insert the filling.
Trim the seam: Trim the seam allowance to reduce bulk.
Clip the curves: Make small snips along the curved edge, being careful not to cut the stitches. This will help the fabric to lie flat when turned.
Turn the pillow: Turn the pillow right side out through the gap. Use a tool like a chopstick or pen to push out the corners.
Press the seams: Press the seams to create a crisp, clean finish.
Insert the filling: Stuff the pillow with your chosen filling, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
Close the gap: Hand-stitch the gap closed using a ladder stitch or a slip stitch for a neat, invisible seam.

Finishing Touches

To add that professional touch, consider these options:

Decorative stitching: A decorative stitch around the edge can add visual interest.
Piping: Adding piping along the edge enhances the pillow's appearance and adds durability.
Embroidery: Personalize your pillow with embroidery.

Conclusion

Sewing a round pillow is a fun and fulfilling project. Following these steps will help you create a beautiful, handmade pillow. Remember to choose fabrics and fillings that suit your preferences and enjoy the process! Now you're ready to add your own creative touch and enjoy your perfectly round, homemade pillow. Happy sewing!