how to sew a zippered pillow

3 min read 05-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to sew a zippered pillow with our comprehensive guide! This step-by-step tutorial with pictures makes it easy for beginners to create a custom, durable pillow with a hidden zipper closure. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your home decor or creating a unique gift.

Introduction: Elevate Your Pillow Game with a Hidden Zipper

Zippered pillows offer a polished, professional look and allow for easy removal of the pillow insert for cleaning. This tutorial will guide you through creating your own, even if you're a beginner sewer. We'll cover everything from choosing your materials to finishing the seams. By the end, you'll be confident in your ability to sew a beautiful, zippered pillow.

Materials You'll Need

Fabric: Choose your favorite fabric! Consider the weight and texture – linen is beautiful but can be a bit more challenging for beginners. Cotton is a great option. You'll need enough to cut two identical pillow front pieces and two identical pillow back pieces. (See below for calculating yardage).
Zipper: Select a zipper that is slightly shorter than the width of your pillow. A concealed zipper will give a more professional finish.
Pillow Insert: Measure your fabric pieces to determine the size of your insert.
Pins: Essential for holding fabric in place while sewing.
Sewing Machine: A sewing machine will make this project significantly easier, but hand-sewing is an option.
Scissors: Sharp scissors are crucial for clean cuts.
Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are key!
Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing your seams will create a crisp, professional finish.
Seam Ripper: For those inevitable mistakes (it happens to everyone!).
Matching Thread: Choose thread that matches your fabric as closely as possible.

Calculating Fabric Yardage

To determine how much fabric you need, measure the desired dimensions of your finished pillow. Add 1-1.5 inches to the width and length for seam allowances. For example, a 16 x 16 inch pillow would require fabric pieces cut to approximately 17.5 x 17.5 inches. You’ll need two of these for the front and back pieces.

Remember to account for the zipper length.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Sewing Your Zippered Pillow

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric

Cut out your fabric pieces: two identical front pieces and two identical back pieces. Ensure your cuts are straight and accurate.

Step 2: Prepare the Back Pieces

Place your back fabric pieces right sides together. Lay the zipper flat on one of the back pieces, aligning its edge with the raw edge of the fabric. Pin in place.

Step 3: Sewing the Zipper

Sew the zipper to one of the back pieces using a zipper foot. Sew close to the zipper teeth, using a medium stitch length. Repeat for the other side of the zipper.

Step 4: Attach the Other Back Piece

Place the second back piece on top of the zipper, right sides together. Pin in place carefully. Sew along the raw edge, enclosing the zipper between the two pieces of fabric.

Step 5: Prepare the Pillow Front

Place your two front pillow pieces together with their right sides facing each other. Pin and sew around all four sides, leaving a small opening for turning.

Step 6: Turn and Press

Carefully turn the pillow front right-side out through the opening. Press the seams to create a clean finish.

Step 7: Insert the Pillow Insert

Insert your pillow insert into the pillow front.

Step 8: Close the Opening

Hand stitch the opening closed, taking small, even stitches. This will create an invisible closure.

Tips for Success

Pre-wash your fabric: This prevents shrinkage after the pillow is sewn.
Use a zipper foot: This specialized sewing machine foot makes sewing zippers much easier.
Press your seams: This creates a professional finish and helps prevent puckering.
Take your time: Don't rush the process. Accuracy is more important than speed.
Practice on scraps: If you're a beginner, practice your zipper sewing technique on scrap fabric first.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your New Handmade Pillow!

You've successfully sewn a beautiful, zippered pillow! With a little patience and these step-by-step instructions, you've created a custom pillow that adds a touch of elegance to your home. Remember to experiment with different fabrics and designs to create unique pillows for yourself or as thoughtful gifts. Happy sewing!