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Last Updated April 15, 2025
How many times have you bought a pillow, thinking it would be the one, only to wake up with a sore neck and regret? It’s super frustrating, right? There’s a whole world of fluffy, squishy, firm, flat, and everything-in-between pillows out there, but somehow, none of them ever feel quite right. That’s where making your own pillow comes in. It’s easier than you might think, and you get to call the shots on comfort, size, and whatnot! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of making a pillow. Are you ready?
Key Takeaways:
There are a bunch of good reasons to make a pillow yourself. First up is comfort. We all sleep differently, and what works for one person can be a total disaster for someone else. Making your own means you can control the feel and texture to match what you like. It’s tailored to you, not the other way around.
Then comes the cost. Have you seen how expensive high-quality pillows can get? High-end pillows can get shockingly expensive for something that’s essentially a fabric pouch filled with stuffing. By making it yourself, you skip the inflated price tag and still end up with something that feels luxurious.
It’s also a great way to be more sustainable. You can repurpose old clothing as filling, use leftover fabric from other projects, or opt for eco-friendly materials like buckwheat hulls. Instead of tossing those scraps in the trash, you’re turning them into something useful.
And honestly, there’s something deeply satisfying about using something you created with your own hands. It’s not just a mere store-bought pillow; it’s a project you brought to life.
Before you start, gather everything you need. You can find most items at craft stores, and some may already be in your home.
Choose two pieces of fabric cut to the same size. These will be the front and back pieces of your pillow. Consider:
One of the best parts about making your own pillow is the freedom to choose exactly how big or small it should be.
| Pillow Types | Dimension (inches) | DImensions (cms) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Pillow | 20 x 26 | 51 x 66 |
| Super Standard Pillow | 20 x 28 | 51 x 71 |
| Queen Pillow | 20 x 30 | 51 x 76 |
| King Pillow | 20 x 34 | 51 x 92 |
| Body Pillow | 20 x 54 | 51 x 137 |
These are good for bed pillows. If you’re planning to make a throw pillow or something more decorative, you’ve got a lot more freedom.
Whatever pillow size you choose, add 1 inch to both dimensions to account for a ½-inch seam allowance on all sides. For example, to make a finished 18 x 18 pillow, cut your fabric into two 19 x 19 squares.
Alright, let’s get to the fun part. Here’s how to make a basic rectangular pillow from start to finish.
Using your measuring tape and fabric chalk, mark your two pieces of fabric. Cut them cleanly with fabric scissors. These are your front and back pieces.
Place the two pieces of fabric together with the right sides facing in. Pin along the raw edges, leaving one side open—this is so you can turn the fabric inside out and stuff it later.
Start sewing around the pinned edges with a ½ inch seam allowance. If you’re hand-sewing, use a backstitch for durability.
Tip: Watching a quick video tutorial or reading through a few sewing tutorials is a great idea if you’re new to using a sewing machine.
Trim any excess fabric and clip diagonally across the seam allowance at each of the four corners (without cutting into your stitches). This helps reduce bulk.
Then, reach inside and grab one corner. Now, carefully pull the pillow right-side out. Use a chopstick or pencil to push out the corners for a crisp finish.
It's time to fill your pillow! If using loose fill, start by pressing small amounts into one corner at a time. Work your way around to the other side and then the center. This ensures even distribution.
If using a pillow insert, fold it and gently slide it inside.
Avoid overstuffing—it should be full but not rigid.
Once it’s stuffed to your liking, fold the open edges inward and pin them together.
If you’re sewing it shut, use a slip stitch so the seam is nearly invisible. If you’re adding a zipper or buttons, now’s the time to attach those.
A removable pillow cover is much recommended for easy maintenance.
Even a simple project like making a pillow has a few easy-to-miss traps, especially if you're new to sewing.
One common mistake is overstuffing—it’s tempting to think more filling means a fluffier, comfier pillow, but in reality, it can turn out oddly lumpy.
Another thing to watch is fabric choice. If your fabric is too thin, it might not handle the pressure of the stuffing and could wear out quickly or even tear.
It's also easy to forget to include seam allowance when cutting your fabric, but skipping this step will leave you with a pillow that’s smaller than planned.
Don’t skip pre-washing your fabric. It might look crisp and clean straight off the bolt, but it can shrink after its first wash and throw off your pillow’s shape. A little prep up front saves a lot of hassle later.
Let's look at how you can infuse personality and function into your pillow:
Contrast fabrics: Use complementary prints or textures on the front and back for a reversible look.
Piping or trim: Stitch decorative piping along the edges before sewing the front and back pieces together for a more polished finish.
Appliqué and embroidery: Stitch names, shapes, or patterns onto the top layer to customize it for a person, occasion, or room.
Iron-on decals or stencils: Great for themed decorative pillows. You can also use fabric paint to create original designs.
Create a removable cover: Add a zipper or buttons along the bottom edge or other edge for easy washing or seasonal swaps.
Use special fabric: Repurpose clothing like a favorite T-shirt or old blanket for sentimental value.
Once your pillow’s done, you’ll want to keep it looking (and smelling) good, as consistent care keeps it hygienic and supportive.
Removable covers: If your pillow has a removable case, always follow the instructions on the fabric care tag. Most cotton can be machine-washed; more delicate fabrics may need hand-washing.
Spot clean: For non-removable pillows, gently dab the stained area with mild soap and water. Avoid saturating the fabric.
Fluff regularly: Over time, pillows may flatten—especially those filled with polyester or down. Give it a shake and knead to restore shape.
Air out natural fillers: If your pillow uses buckwheat hulls or similar materials, place it in the sun occasionally to keep it fresh.
Restuff if needed: As years go by, you may want to add or replace filling. Simply open the seam, refresh the insert, and resew the gap closed using a ladder stitch.
See? Not so scary. Making your own pillow is one of those projects that’s both beginner-friendly and super satisfying. You get total control over how it looks and feels, and it doesn’t take much time or money to get started.
So, go ahead—dig through that fabric bin, fire up your sewing machine (or just grab a needle and thread), and make something awesome. Your bed, your couch, and definitely your neck will thank you.
Pillows are made using two key materials: fabric for the outer cover and a filler for the inside. Common fabrics include cotton, linen, flannel, or even repurposed T-shirts.
The filling can range from polyester fiberfill and shredded memory foam to down feathers or buckwheat hulls.
The choice of materials mostly depends on your preferred comfort and intended use.
The best filling depends on how you plan to use the pillow.
Polyester fiberfill is budget-friendly and great for beginners. Shredded latex pillows offer contouring support, while down gives a plush feel. Buckwheat hulls are firm and eco-friendly, ideal for therapeutic use.
You can also reuse old pillow stuffing or fabric scraps to save money and reduce waste.
To cut fabric for a pillow, decide on your finished pillow size and add 1 inch to each measurement for seam allowance. Use a measuring tape and fabric chalk to mark two identical pieces on your chosen fabric. Cut along straight lines using sharp fabric scissors. Pre-wash and iron your fabric before cutting to prevent shrinkage. Always cut both the front and back pieces at once for accuracy, especially if you're following a sewing tutorial or pattern.
The 2-2-1 pillow rule is a simple decorating guideline used to style pillows on a bed or sofa. It suggests using five pillows in this order: two large pillows in the back, two medium ones in front, and one smaller accent pillow in the center. This creates a balanced and stylish arrangement.
If you're planning to make decorative pillows or throw pillows, this rule helps you plan pillow sizes and fabric choices with a cohesive look in mind.
People make pillows by cutting two pieces of fabric to the same size, placing them with the right sides facing each other, and sewing along three edges with a straight stitch.
After turning the fabric right-side out and pushing out the corners, they fill it with a pillow insert or stuffing.
Finally, the last edge is tucked in and sewn closed using a ladder stitch or straight stitch.
A pillow insert is a pre-filled, removable inner cushion placed inside a decorative pillow cover.
While not always necessary, using an insert makes it easy to swap out covers for different seasons or styles. It also adds structure and longevity to your pillow.
You can either buy ready-made inserts at craft stores or make your own by sewing and stuffing a plain fabric form to fit inside your pillowcase right side out.
Yes, you can absolutely make a pillow by hand if you don’t have a sewing machine.
Use a strong back stitch to sew along three sides of your fabric, stuff the pillow, and close the final edge using a ladder stitch for a clean finish.
It may take longer than machine sewing, but the results can be just as sturdy and neat—especially with some patience. Many sewing tutorials even include hand-sewing methods for beginners.
Choosing the right fabric depends on your pillow’s purpose. For everyday use, go with cotton or linen—they’re breathable, durable, and easy to clean. For cozy, decorative pillows, try flannel or velvet. Repurposed materials like an old T-shirt or pillowcase add a personal touch. They also reduce waste.
Always consider the fabric’s texture, weight, and washability before starting your sewing project.
Test for stretch and fray as well, especially if you’re new to sewing straight lines.
Related blog posts:
1. How to Take Care of Pillows
2. How to Choose the Right Pillow
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
