WANT TO REFRESH YOUR HOME ON A BUDGET? THESE 15-MINUTE PILLOW COVERS ARE FAST, EASY, AND SEASONALLY STYLISH SEWING PROJECTS!
Stitching up some simple pillow covers is one of my favourite ways to change up my home decor. Swapping out pillow covers is a simple, affordable trick that makes a big impact — especially if your space has a neutral base like mine. I’ve learned that making my own envelope-style pillow covers is not only quick and easy, but it also saves a ton of money over time.
If you’re just getting started with sewing or you’re looking for a fast project, these easy pillow covers come together in just 15 minutes. No zippers, no buttons, no stress. Just seasonal charm and a fresh new look for your space!
SUPPLIES FOR 15-MINUTE PILLOW COVERS
To make your simple pillow covers, you’ll want to gather up your basic sewing supplies:
- Fabric – I’ll give you the measurements below
- Coordinating thread
- Pillow form – I’m using a 16-inch form, but I’ll give you yardage for different sizes below
- Sewing machine
- Iron and ironing surface
- Rotary cutter and mat (or scissors and ruler)
- Measuring tape
- Pins and pincushion
If you don’t have a dedicated sewing room, as many don’t, try using a Portable Sewing Room to keep all your supplies in one place!
FABRIC + NOTIONS FOR EVERY PROJECT
From charm packs and jelly rolls to rulers and thread, Fat Quarter Shop is packed with everything a quilter or sewist could need. It’s one of my first stops when planning a project.
CUTTING MEASUREMENTS FOR COMMON PILLOW SIZES
Use these fabric measurements to make envelope-style covers that fit snugly and look polished. These allow for a ¼” to ½” seam (depending on how loose or tight you want your pillow cover) and enough overlap at the back.
TIP: If you’re using a directional or patterned fabric like stripes or plaid, you may want a little extra fabric to help with alignment.
- For a 12″ pillow, cut fabric: 14″ x 36″
- For a 14″ pillow, cut fabric: 16″ x 38″
- For a 16″ pillow, cut fabric: 18″ x 42″
- For an 18″ pillow, cut fabric: 20″ x 42″
NOTE: I don’t recommend this method for 20″ or larger pillow forms. An 18″ insert is the upper limit for this construction — any bigger, and the fit becomes too tight unless you change the method.
HOW TO SEW YOUR SIMPLE PILLOW COVERS
This envelope pillow cover method is beginner-friendly and great for using up fabric from your stash. No special tools or closures required!
STEP 1: PREPARE YOUR FABRIC
Before doing anything, decide if you’re going to pre-wash your fabric before cutting. It used to be necessary, because you could see alot of shrinkage after the first wash, but fabrics these days seem to be of much better quality and I don’t see it as much. But, this is a personal choice. You do you!
Either way, press your fabric and get rid of any wrinkles that will prevent your pillow cover from coming out straight and smooth.
TRUSTED TOOLS FOR EVERY STITCH
Singer offers reliable, easy-to-use machines and sewing tools that help bring your projects to life.
STEP 2: CUT TO SIZE
Use the chart above to cut your fabric based on your pillow insert size. These dimensions include seam allowances and the overlap for the envelope-style back.
Tip: If you are working with a plaid or stripe, you may need to cut along the pattern to help you line up the sides. These prints can go a little wonky sometimes!
STEP 3: PRESS THE SHORT ENDS
With the fabric laid out horizontally, fold one short end over ½”, then fold again ¾” to enclose the raw edge. Press well. Repeat for the other short end. Stitch both folded edges in place.
NOTE: You can leave selvages in place — they’ll be hidden in the final seam.
STEP 4: FOLD TO FORM THE ENVELOPE
Start by placing the fabric right side up. Find the centre point and then measure out to the size of your pillow insert to find your folding point.
For example, I’m using a 16-inch pillow form, so from the centre point, I would measure 8 inches in each direction. If you prefer a looser fit for your pillow covers, add a ¼” at each end to mark your fold point.
Next, fold each short end toward the middle, overlapping them so the total width now equals the size of your pillow form (e.g., 16″). This creates the envelope-style back opening.
Pin along the two vertical edges and sew both sides using a ½” seam allowance.
STEP 5: FINISH AND TURN
Trim the corners on a diagonal (being careful not to snip your stitching), then turn the cover right side out. Use a point turner or the end of a chopstick to gently push out the corners.
Give your new pillow cover a final press, insert your pillow form, and admire your beautiful new decor!
WHY I LOVE THIS SIMPLE PILLOW COVER
These envelope pillow covers are such a satisfying project. They’re perfect for:
– Seasonal updates without buying new pillows
– Easy fabric stash busters
– Beginner sewing wins
– Gifts for friends and family
I’ve made a set for almost every holiday and season. Because they fold flat, they take up hardly any room in a drawer. You could even make twelve and switch them out every month!
MORE QUICK SEWING PROJECTS YOU MIGHT ENJOY
If you love these simple pillow covers, check out these beginner-friendly projects:
To see a very budget-friendly version of these simple pillow covers, be sure to check out this Dollar Store Makeover!
And don’t forget to check out the Handmade Home Library – a FREE collection of quilting and sewing resources, plus so much more! New items are being added all the time, so be sure to check back often.
SAVE THIS PROJECT FOR LATER
Love this tutorial? Save How to Make Super Simple Pillow Covers in 15 Minutes to your favourite Pinterest board so you can find it again when you need a quick sewing fix.
