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Decorative toss cushions are one of easiest and most inexpensive ways to add a splash of pattern in a living room or bedroom. And while there are many ready-made options out there to choose from (including several fabulous patterns and colors in the decorateITonline Store), basic toss cushions are also incredibly simple to make yourself in just a few easy steps:
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Materials you’ll need:
- Fabric
- A sewing machine
- Thread
- Pillow inserts
- Scissors
- An iron and ironing board
- Hand-sewing needle
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Step 1: Choose your fabric, thread, and pillow insert
For this project we chose a gorgeous circular scrolled design in tones of cream and taupe. The pattern repeats the same way both vertically and horizontally and has a neutral orientation so it can be placed in any direction (depending on the fabric you choose you may have to consider the pattern repeat and orientation in Step 3). Try to choose a fabric that is mid-weight (neither too thick or too thin), and take note of the recommended cleaning process for it. The thread, though it won’t be overly visible, should color-coordinate well with the fabric you choose. Pillow inserts come in different sized and types of fill, so choose the one that best fits your purpose.
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Step 2: Measure your pillow insert
Lay the pillow insert flat on the table and measure the length at the seam rather than at the middle, pulling the seam taut to get an accurate measurement.
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Step 3: Measure and cut your fabric
Measure out your fabric, adding an extra 3/4″ on either side for seam allowance (1-1/2″ total). At this point you also want to take note of the pattern: if the fabric has a repeating pattern make sure that the center of the design is aligned with the center of the area you are cutting.
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Step 4: Match up your pieces
Line up your cut pieces with the “good” sides (the sides you want to end up on the outside when the pillow is completed) facing each other. If your pattern has a discernible vertical orientation make sure that the direction is the same for both pieces.
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Step 5: Sew
Using a straight stitch (standard width) sew three edges of the pillow, leaving a 3/4″ margin between the seam and the edge of the fabric. On the fourth side, leave an opening large enough to feed the pillow insert through (8″-10″). Reverse stitch over the seams on either side of the opening to provide extra reinforcement.
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Step 6: Iron
Using the steam setting, iron the fabric so that the remaining flap on the outside of your seam lays flat. Also, iron the fabric around the opening for the pillow insert so that the crease lines up with the seams on either side of the opening.
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Step 7: Cut off corners
Cut off the excess fabric on the corners using a diagonal cut, and making sure not to cut through the seam. This will ensure that the corners of the cover aren’t lumpy when the insert is placed inside.
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Step 8: Flip cover and stuff the insert inside
Turn the fabric inside-out so the “good” side faces outward and the seams are on the inside. Roll up the pillow insert and push it through the opening. Guide each of the corners of the insert into the corners of the cover, then flatten the pillow so the edges of the insert line up with the seams of the cover.
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Step 9: Sew pillow closed
Using an “invisible” stitch, hand sew the remaining opening closed and knot the end to ensure the stitching remains secure.
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Step 10: Fluff and enjoy!
Fluff up the pillow to make sure the fill is evenly distributed, place it in it’s desired location, then sit back and behold your lovely new creation.
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For more handy How-to projects and tips check out our TOOLS page!
