How to sew a zipper in pillow cover, measure and cut fabric, sew a half-inch seam allowance with a backstitch, use a zipper foot to sew around the zipper, and then sew around all three unfinished sides of the pillow. This easy tutorial will guide you through the entire process of adding a zipper to your pillow cover.
Embarking on a sewing project for the first time can be intimidating, especially when it involves adding a zipper to a pillow cover. However, with the right guidance, you can master this skill and create beautiful and functional pillow covers with zippers.
In this comprehensive tutorial, you will learn step-by-step instructions on how to sew a zipper into a pillow cover, making the process straightforward and accessible for beginners. By following these clear instructions, you will be able to confidently tackle this sewing project and enhance your home décor with custom-made pillow covers.
How to Sew a Zipper in Pillow Cover?
Materials Needed
To sew a zipper in a pillow cover, you will need a zipper, fabric, pins, scissors, and a sewing machine. Measure and cut the fabric, mark the fabric for the zipper, stitch the zipper onto the fabric, sew the pillow cover together, and insert the pillow form.
No need to fear zippers anymore with this easy sewing tutorial!
Gather Your Sewing Supplies
Before you begin sewing a zipper into a pillow cover, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. Here’s a list of the sewing supplies you’ll need:
- Fabric: Choose a fabric of your choice for the pillow cover. Consider the color, pattern, and texture that will complement your home decor.
- Zipper: Select a zipper length that matches the size of your pillow cover. Ensure it is wide enough to allow easy insertion and removal of the pillow form.
- Thread: Use a thread color that closely matches your fabric for seamless blending.
- Scissors: Sharp fabric scissors will help you cut the fabric and trim excess threads.
- Pins: Use straight pins to hold the fabric pieces in place while sewing.
- Sewing machine: A sewing machine with a zipper foot attachment will make the zipper installation process easier and more precise.
- Iron: Use an iron to press and smooth out the fabric before and after sewing.
Measuring And Cutting Fabric
When it comes to sewing a zipper in a pillow cover, the correct measurements and precise cutting of the fabric are crucial for a professional finish. Below, we will discuss the steps involved in determining the fabric size and cutting the fabric pieces for a seamless sewing experience.
Determine Fabric Size For Pillow Cover
First and foremost, measure the dimensions of your pillow insert. For a standard square pillow, add 1 inch to both the length and width measurements to allow for seam allowances. For example, if your pillow is 18 x 18 inches, you would cut your fabric to 19 x 19 inches.
If your pillow is rectangular, follow the same process of adding 1 inch to the length and width, and then measure the longest side of the pillow for the zipper length. This ensures a snug fit for your pillow cover.
Cutting The Fabric Pieces
Once the fabric size is determined, it’s time to cut the fabric pieces. Lay the fabric on a flat surface and use fabric scissors to cut it according to the measurements obtained. Cut two identical pieces for the front and back of the pillow cover. Ensure each piece is cut precisely to the correct dimensions to avoid any misalignment during the sewing process.
Preparing And Sewing The Zipper
Sewing a zipper into a pillow cover may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be a straightforward and rewarding process. Preparing the fabric and attaching the zipper correctly are crucial steps in ensuring a professional-looking finish. Here’s how to do it:
Marking The Fabric For Zipper Placement
To begin, lay the fabric flat and mark the placement for the zipper. Using a fabric pencil, draw a straight line down the center of the fabric where the zipper will be sewn. Then, mark the top and bottom ends of the zipper to ensure accurate alignment.
Attaching The Zipper To The Fabric
Next, align the zipper face down along the marked line and secure it in place with pins. Using a zipper foot on the sewing machine, sew the zipper tape to the fabric, ensuring the stitches are close to the zipper teeth for a neat and secure attachment.
Trimming The Excess Fabric
After sewing the zipper, it’s important to trim any excess fabric to reduce bulk and ensure smooth zipper operation. Trim the fabric close to the zipper teeth, being careful not to cut into the stitches. This step will also help in creating neat corners when the pillow cover is turned right side out.
Assembling And Finishing The Pillow Cover
In order to complete your beautiful pillow cover with a zipper, there are a few important steps to follow. From pinning and sewing the cover together to trimming the corners and turning it right side out, each step plays a crucial role in achieving a professional finish. Let’s dive into the process!
Pinning And Sewing The Pillow Cover Together
To get started, lay your fabric pieces on a flat surface with the right sides facing each other. Make sure to align the edges and corners perfectly. Use straight pins to secure the fabric in place, ensuring that the pins go through both layers of fabric. This will prevent any shifting during sewing.
Once pinned, thread your sewing machine with a coordinating thread color. Starting at one corner, sew around the perimeter of the pillow cover using a ⅝-inch seam allowance. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam for added strength.
Trimming The Corners
Trimming the corners is an important step in achieving clean and crisp corners once the pillow cover is turned right side out. Use sharp fabric scissors or pinking shears to carefully trim off the excess fabric at each corner, making sure not to cut through the stitching.
Turning The Pillow Cover Right Side Out
Now comes the exciting part – turning the pillow cover right side out! Gently reach into the opening of the cover and grab one corner. Slowly pull the fabric through the opening, working your way around the entire cover until it’s fully turned right side out. Use your fingers or a blunt tool to push out the corners and edges for a neat finish.
Your pillow cover should now be looking ready to go!
Inserting The Pillow Form
The final step is inserting the pillow form into the cover. Place the pillow form into the cover, ensuring that it fits snugly within the corners. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases, and adjust the pillow form as needed to achieve your desired look.
And there you have it! Your newly assembled and finished pillow cover is now ready to add a pop of style and comfort to your living space. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with your own hands!
Conclusion
Sewing a zipper in a pillow cover may seem intimidating, but with the right steps, it can be easily accomplished even for beginners. By measuring and cutting the fabric, marking the placement of the zipper, and sewing it into the cover, you can create a professional-looking pillow cover with a functional zipper.
No need to be afraid of zippers anymore! With this simple tutorial, you’ll be able to add zippers to your pillow covers with confidence and ease. Start your sewing journey and give your pillow covers a stylish and functional upgrade!
