DIY 10-minute Envelope Pillow Cover Tutorial (Step by Step with Photos)
This super easy tutorial to make an envelope pillow cover is the perfect beginner project if you’re on a tight budget or just want a simple project to enjoy. This 10-minute envelope pillow cover is super easy to make, wash and put back in use. What else can we ask for?
Don’t you love pillows? I’m kind of obsessed lately with pillows and I love having pillows everywhere. I just can’t help it whenever I see one, I need to buy them. They make such a difference in our home decor strategy.
You might also love these other easy sewing project ideas: Easy 3-Pieces DIY Envelope Pillow cover, DIY Noel Modern Farmhouse Christmas Pillow Cover, and Monogrammed Zippered Pillow cover.
The problem is that I love them all and let’s face it, not all pillow designs fit our home and that’s when my struggles begin.
Table of Contents
How to make an Envelope Pillow Cover in 10 min
My solution was simple, buying the plain pillow and then making myself the covers.
Today I’m sharing with you the most basic and easy pillow cover you will find out there: A 10-minute envelope Pillow cover. From here you can tweak and variate in so many different ways as I have.
I’ve made quite some pillows already using different decorations and styles but to give you a start point. I’ll teach you how to make this super easy envelope pillow cover and then stay tuned for more pillow covers tutorials as I’ll show you the different ways I’ve made them!
Seriously! This pillow cover was made in 10 minutes. Once you decide what size it will be, the rest is just easy peasy Lemos squeeze LOL. Sorry!
Actually, you don’t even need a sewing machine to make these pillow covers. You can hand-sew them really quickly too (it might not be 10 minutes but still quick).
If you would like a tutorial on how I hand-sew things let me know in the comments and I’ll happily put it together for you!
A few years ago, I made a whole Wall Diaper Stacker for my baby girl and I didn’t have a sewing machine then, so I’m honest when I say it’s not that hard, just slightly more time-consuming.
What is Envelope Pillowcase or Pillow cover?
Envelope pillow covers have gotten very popular lately. While most pillowcases are open on the ends, an envelope pillowcase has a particular envelope closure at the back of the case that resembles an actual envelope. So, the pillow is tucked in and out of sight for a more finished look when decorating your couch or bed.
How to make an Envelope Pillow Cover.
Supplies needed:
- Your favorite fabric.
- A pillow inserts (of course, :p)
- Matching-color thread.
- Sewing machine or needle (If you are going hand-sew)
- Measuring tape or ruler
Instructions
Before we begin, be sure to follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and also sign up for our email list (at the end of this post), so you’ll never miss a post!
I created this quick video tutorial to make it easy for you! However, if you are more of a photo step-by-step kind of person just scroll down and keep reading!
I’ll start by showing you some graphics of how this works so you have a better idea on how to determine the size of your pillow and then I’ll share a step-by-step photos tutorial, alright?
Wanna know the best part of this envelope pillow cover?
Prepare yourself for awesomeness…
A while ago, I would cut 3 separate fabric pieces, as I did for these Christmas Pillow covers (2 for the back and 1 for the front panel), and pin them together (I also love Laura’s technique, so clever!). Ha.
Now, (Ready???) improved envelope pillow covers to ONE piece.
You heard that right. ONE piece. Front piece and back pieces all in one piece.
Nice huh!
You will need to do some math’s and cut your fabric as follows:
100% means your pillow’s size (1/8-inch seam allowance only on top and bottom because you are folding sides).
75% means the percentage of the front size you will use for the back pieces. You can use less but I love thick hems on the ends and large overlap. So, you can adjust as you like you can use 65% for example if you like thin hems.
In a life example, if your pillow is 16×16 Inches, your 100% would be about 16 x 16.6 Inches and then your back panels (75%) would be about 12 x 16.6 Inches. Sum all the widths and you have the length of your main piece.
From there, it’s just about folding and stitching basically. Double fold your hems and then fold and stitch the pillow cover.
Step by Step:
- Once you cut your fabric with the right measurements, make sure you marked well your folding lines.
- Iron your fabric. This isn’t necessary, but it will make your sewing job so much easier if you do!
- Fold the fabric with right sides together. Fold one of the short sides over, make sure it’s straight, then fold the other side over. Iron to mark folding lines and pin in place close to the folding line.
- Work on the hems: as I mentioned I love thick hems, so I made it a little less than 1 inch. So, measure it, fold it once and fold it again. Iron it. Pin it. Sew it. Repeat on the other end.
- Lay them in place to make sure you like it or if you want to give more or less to the hems.
- Check the width; it should be the width of the pillow (16” in my case). Adjust until it’s right, and pin along the top and bottom.
- When everything is ok there, then sew two straight lines (I do reverse the machine and go over each finished end again for reinforcement since that’s where the pillow gets the most abuse from inserting and removing the pillows, but that takes maybe an extra 5 seconds). Did I mention this was a super easy project?
- I like zig-zag stitches along the edges to avoid fraying and have a nice finished edge.
- Turn the envelope pillow cover right side out, stuff it with a pillow, and enjoy your finished work.
Isn’t it Pretty and easy?
Now you have a brand-new throw pillow!
This way you can make as many as you want and then start playing around like I did. I made another one stenciled and then another one part stripped and part solid with a cute tassel ribbon in between. SOOO cute!
You should try. I’ll be sharing the tutorial for these cute pillows and also how I make zipper pillow covers! So, stay tuned!
There you go!
What do you think?
Sewing Tips for perfect Envelope Pillow covers
I so recommend cutting the fabric with the use of a rotary cutter, acrylic ruler, and a cutting mat. I started doing this just a couple of years ago and OMG, what a difference. If you don’t have those, you may think you can just cut with scissors but I assure you, a rotary cutter kit will make your life infinitely easier. You won’t regret it.
Whenever possible, if you are a beginner, use 100% cotton fabrics. This is the easiest fabric to work with. If you’re not experienced with making pillows, I recommend waiting until you have a bit more experience with them to work with more complex fabrics.
Always have more fabric than necessary. Don’t just buy the amount of fabric you need, especially when you are a beginner. That way you know that if something goes wrong, you have more fabric to try again.
Start with a brand-new needle for your sewing machine and new thread. Old needles can lead to all sorts of problems. Make sure the needle is sharp and made for cotton fabric. Keep those threads your grandma gave you for other types of crafts and make sure you use brand new threads to sew with your sewing machine.
Seam ripper handy at all times. Whenever you need to undo some stitches, this tool will save you tons of time. But be careful and don’t underestimate it, it’s very sharp.
How can I style this envelope Pillow cover?
- Mix with other pillows on your sofa or couch.
- Iron on some pretty designs.
- Stencil paint some pretty sentiments.
- Place a blanket underneath the pillow on a reading chair.
- Mix and match colors on your bed.
If you make some, please tag me so I can check it out and share your project!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sewing level needed to make envelope pillow covers?
Envelope pillowcases are perfect for square pillows at any size, but it works on rectangular or even circular pillows by adjusting the size and shape of the fabric based on the size of your specific pillow form.
Absolutely! As long as the fabric you choose is washable, your pillow cover will be totally washable.
More Sewing Projects to Try
Like this Envelope Pillow Cover project? You might definitely love these other sewing project ideas too:
✂️ Tutorial
DIY 10-minute Envelope Pillow Cover Tutorial
Equipment
- Sewing Machine
Ingredients
- Your favorite fabric.
- A pillow of course, :p
- Matching-color thread.
- Sewing machine or needle If you are going hand-sew
- Measuring tape or ruler
Instructions
You will need to cut your fabric like follows:
- 100% means your pillow’s size (hem allowance only on top and bottom because you are folding sides).
- 75% means the percentage of the front size you will use for the back panels. You can use less but I love thick hems on the ends and large overlap. SO you can adjust as you like you can use 65% for example if you like thin hems.
- In a life example if your pillow is 16×16 Inches, your 100% would be about 16 x 16.6 Inches and then your back panels (75%) would be about 12 x 16.6 Inches. Sum all the widths and you have the length of you main piece.
- From there, it’s just about folding and stitching basically. Double fold your hems and then fold and stitch the pillow cover.
- Let’s go to the details shall we?
- Once you cut your fabric with the right measurements, make sure you marked well your folding lines.
- Iron Your Fabric. This isn’t necessary, but it will make your sewing job so much easier if you do!
- Fold the fabric with right sides together. Fold one of the short sides over, make sure it’s straight, then fold the other side over. Pin in place close to the folding line.
- Work on the hems: as I mentioned I love thick hems, so I made it a little less than 1 inch. So measure it, fold it once and fold it again. Iron it. Pin it. Sew it. Repeat on the other end.
- Lay them in place to make sure you like it or if you want to give more or less to the hems.
- Check the width; it should be the width of the pillow (16” in my case). Adjust until it’s right, and pin along the top and bottom.
- When everything is ok there, then sew two straight lines (I do reverse the machine and go over each finished end again for reinforcement since that’s where the pillow gets the most abuse from inserting and removing the pillows, but that takes maybe an extra 5 seconds). Did I mention this was a super easy project?
- I like zig-zag stitching along the edges to avoid fraying.
- Turn the envelope pillow cover right side out, stuff it with a pillow, and enjoy your finished work.
If you like this simple yet super fun and decorative project please share it with your friends!
Til' next time...
GET INSTANT ACCESS TO THE HOME ORGANIZED WORKBOOK
Plus freebies, printables, exclusive content, tips, stay connected, be the first to know great offers and Product Launches!
Disclaimer: By clicking on the "Yes, I want it" button above you are giving me your consent to collect and use your information according to the law and My Policy Privacy and The Cookie Policy. Zero Spam I promise!
I love this idea and am going to use it for a body pillow. My favorite pillow cover is slowly fading away (it’s nearly 15 years old!) and I can’t find any covers in the fabric, color or print I want so…. I went and bought a couple of yards of fabric I like -on clearance no less- and was looking for a way to make it without a zipper. I don’t try to sew in zippers. LOL This envelop-style will do just fine with a bit of modification. I’ll have to figure out how to make the envelop part closer to the end of the pillow to make it easier to get the cover on and off. I really like the idea of using one piece of fabric too! Thank you for sharing this so I can make my next most favorite body pillow cover. :)
Hi Dawn,
Thank you so so much for your kind words. This pillow cover is very simple to put together and one of my favorites too. Wherever you set the opening I can assure you, it’s not hard to get the cover on and off. However, it’s a good idea to maybe work on a variation of it. I might work on it the next chance I get!
Again thank you for taking the time to leave your thoughts! You made my day!
Sending warm hugs!
Cami.
This was so easily to make Camila! I like that you came up with a pattern that’s just one piece of fabric, so I can ensure the back pieces are always facing the correct way.
Thank you so much Sharon! I sp appreciate your kind words and I’m super glad you found it helpful!!!
Now let’s make a bunch LOL!
Hugs
Love these pillows! I’m confused on the instructions when you talk about width and length because the example uses a square pillow, i can’t tell which measurement is the length and which is the width. Or if you could give the numbers in that example of the measurement of the whole piece of fabric you cut? Thank you.
Hi Stacey,
ok So, unless it’s rounded it doesn’t matter if it’s squared or rectangle, we talk about width and height. Which one is which is totally up to you when it comes to the pillow. When you are going to measure the fabric, by the rule of thumb the width is the longest and height is the shortest. I can’t give you a specific number because your pillow might be larger or smaller. That’s white I give percentages and an example with one pillow size, so you can apply that to your own pillow. If you read it all you will see I included graphics illustrating how you will measure and how your fabric should look like and be divided in.
Hope this clarifies a bit things for you.
Happy new Year!!!
I would like a recommendation as to the type of pillow insert for a patio back cushion. I want soft and not very firm.
Hey Cindy, happy to have you visiting!
To be honest, I wouldn’t know. I have never made any cushion for the outdoors. I guess that if you are not planning on leaving the cushions out all the time you can use any cushion you love, I personally love feathers LOL.
Sorry I can’t be more helpful!
have a wonderful day!
Will this work for a large square pillow. Also how would you do this by hand?
Hi Brandy, Yes, you can do this for any size if you follow the percentages. I have handsewn a few projects back when I didn’t have a sewing machine it is doable. Google some hand-sew tutorials (this is actually something I haven’t done but should) and I am sure you will find good ones.
Hope this helps!
Could not find video for 10 minute envelope pillowcase.
Hey Sharon, Sorry about that. This post doesn’t have any video yet although I’m working on creating one soon.
Thank you for stopping by!
hugs
my body pillow is 38 inches long by 26inches
I’m sorry, not sure what’s the question. If it’s about the size of the fabric, just follow the formula shared on the post and you should be good to go!
Hugs
Does this work for rectangular pillows too?
Of course! The process is the same you just need to adjust the back measurements. For example: If the pillow is 12″ X 24″ I would cut the fabric 12″ X 56″. Follow the percentages described in the graphics in the post.
Hope this helps!
Merry Christmas!!!!
Thank you ! Merry Christmas to you as well!
Cami, what beautiful pillows! You are very talented! Thanks for the simplicity of your technique. Unfortunately, I don’t have a sewing machine because I do very little sewing! Could you please post, or send me instructions on how to hand-sew this pillow!! Again, thanks so much!
Hi Lisa,
Thank you so so much for your kind words. I completely understand your point. I started hand-sewing because I didn’t have a machine. I can definitely create a post for hand-sewing but I can’t right now, it would take a couple weeks since I’m having some visit over for almost a week. what I can do for now, is giving you 2 posts I’ve done that I’ve used techniques to non-sewing machine projects. One is using heat n’Bond which I would use for the hems. if you are not familiar with that, heat n’ Bond is like double-sided tape but for fabric. This post explains how to use it. And then for the stitches, I made some fabric pumpkins last year and I used hand-sewing for that and even made a video. You can see the post here check the second pumpkin. Following the same instructions here but instead of sewing machine use heat and bond for the hems and hand-sewing for the side stitches. I would love to have step by step instructions to help you specifically for this right away but I truly can’t But I will create a post for hand-sewing as soon as I can and I’ll let you know!
Again thank you so much for your lovely comment and taking the time to contact me.
Hugs
Such a great tutorial, I’ll be making a lot of these soon for my first apartment! xoxo
Your comment just made my day! Thank you so much! I’m sure you will get hooked. You have no idea how many pillow covers I’ve made already LOL. I would love to see your pillows once you have them done!!!
Hugs and good luck!
Made one and it turned out perfectly! Now on to the next three. Thanks so much!
SOOOO glad to hear that!!!! you made my day!
I’ve already made so many and I still want to make more, does that happen to you or am I too weird??? LOL
Hugs
Beautiful
Thanks!!!! <3
hugs
That’s creative , beautiful and looks so easy to do..
???