Here's the tutorial you've been asking for! I'm excited to share it with you today, but be warned: once you learn how to make a cushion cover, it can be addictive. You’ll find yourself wanting to personalise your decor with every season, trend, or mood change.
There are several methods to make a cushion cover, but I’ll show you the easiest one—an envelope cover. This type of cover doesn’t require a zip; you simply slip your cushion inside, and the opening is at the back. It’s simple, stylish, and practical.
What You’ll Need:
- Fabric: The size depends on your cushion. For a large 65 x 65 cm cushion, I used one piece of fabric measuring 70 x 70 cm and two pieces of 70 x 40 cm. The extra 5 cm is for the seam allowance—2.5 cm on each side.
- Thread: Choose thread that matches your fabric, or pick a contrasting colour for a fun effect.
- Sewing machine (optional): You can also sew by hand, but it will take more time and patience. If you need to, you can find the best sewing machines here
- Pins: You can find all our pins here.
- Sewing scissors: It's helpful to have scissors dedicated to fabric cutting. Discover our collection of sewing scissors.
- An iron
As you can see, the envelope cover is made up of three pieces of fabric:
- 1 large piece for the front
- 2 smaller pieces for the back, which will overlap to create the opening
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Back Pieces
Take the two smaller pieces of fabric that will form the back of the cover. On each piece, fold the long edge (the side that will form the opening) by about 1.5 cm, with the fold facing the wrong side of the fabric. Press the fold with an iron to set it in place. Ironing before sewing is a key trick in sewing—it makes the process smoother!
Step 2: Sew the Folded Edges
Using a zigzag stitch (if possible), sew along the folded edges to prevent fraying. Try to make the stitches as neat and even as possible. If you want the stitching to blend in, use thread that matches your fabric; for a more playful look, use a contrasting colour.
Step 3: Assemble the Pieces
Now it’s time to put the cover together:
- Lay the large front piece flat, with the right side facing up.
- Place one of the small pieces on top, aligning it with one edge of the large piece, with the right sides facing each other.
- Place the second small piece on the opposite edge in the same way. The two smaller pieces should overlap by about 7 cm, forming the envelope opening.
To prevent the fabric from shifting during sewing, use pins. Pin around all four edges, ensuring the fabric layers are securely held together.
Step 4: Sew the Edges
Using a straight stitch, sew around all four edges, about 2.5 cm from the edge. This seam allowance ensures the inside of the cover is spacious enough for your cushion—at least 60 cm for a 65 cm cushion.
🪡 Tip for stretchy fabrics: If your fabric has some stretch, use a zigzag stitch to maintain the stretchiness without breaking the seam. For non-stretchy fabrics, a regular straight stitch will work fine.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Before turning the cover right-side out, complete these last two steps:
- Trim the corners: Cut the corners diagonally (about 3 mm from the seam) to allow the cover’s corners to sit neatly once turned.
- Overcast the edges: Use a zigzag stitch along the fabric edges to prevent fraying over time. Admittedly, I don’t always do this step, but it’s a good habit to have for durability.
Step 6: Turn the Cover and Insert the Cushion
Now that you’ve finished sewing, turn the cover right-side out through the back opening. Slip your cushion inside, and voilà! Your DIY cushion cover is ready.
Optional Finishing:
If you'd like to secure the opening completely, you can sew a strip of Velcro around the edges of the slot. Alternatively, add a button or sew two small fabric ties to keep it closed. This is more useful for larger cushions, but it’s entirely optional.
Where Will You Use Your New Cushion?
Now that you’ve made your own cushion cover, where will you display it? On the sofa, the bed, or maybe an armchair? Once you master this technique, you’ll find yourself picking up beautiful fabrics everywhere you go! 🛋️
Enjoy your new skill, and happy decorating! 🤗
