Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Time for New Pillow Cases

I tend to hold onto things I like for a long time. Such was the case with the very first bedding we purchased for my son. Now, ten years later, they have come to the point of desperately needing to be replaced. (I am almost embarrassed to be showing this picture and admitting to using these pillow cases for so long.)


I looked everywhere to find something similar – Home Goods, TJ Maxx, Pottery Barn, Target, etc. No luck – none to be found. So after weeks of searching, I decided to make them myself. I am not sure why I didn’t think of this originally as making pillow cases is truly one of the simplest sewing projects I have ever completed.

Supplies:
Makes two standard size pillow cases
Fabric – 2 yards of 44” wide
Sewing machine
Yardstick or ruler
Thread
Scissors
Pins

Making the Pillow Cases:
Wash and dry your fabric – an important step not to be skipped!


Cut fabric into two approximately 1 yard x 44” wide pieces. Your fabric may be slightly smaller due to shrinking during the washing and drying process.

Fold fabric in half lengthwise with right sides together making a 36” x 22” rectangle.


Pin and sew along two edges using ½” seam allowance. Since I do not have a serger, I also sewed around a second time about ¼” from the edge to reinforce the seams.


Finish remaining raw edge (pillow case opening) by turning under ½” and sewing. Turn pillow case right side out.



To create a cuffed edge, fold the finished edge of the pillow case back approximately 6” and then fold the cuff back on itself making a 3” cuff.


Pin in place and sew ¼” from the opening edge of the pillow case and ¼” from the folded edge.


Place over pillow and enjoy!


Linking to these fabulous ladies

8 comments:

  1. So fresh and pretty! Love these!

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  2. Love those pillow cases, I love plaid and quilting, so definite winners!

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  3. Those pillow slips turned out great!
    I like the plaid and color (red,white,blue)

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  4. Those pillow cases or shams are soooo cute! I love them...great job. I wish I knew how to sew!!

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  5. They turned out so great! You've inspired to me take a look at my pillowcases and work on some new ones! :)

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  6. Plaid is so warm. Great tutorial. I think I could even do this. I use stitch witch LOL! I can't sew well, and do not have a sewing machine. May have to someday. Have a great weekend, and thanks for stopping over.

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  7. Love the madras plaid for the pillow cases! I used the same thing in my boys' nursery years ago. Classic!

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