Let’s talk about throw pillows shall we? Because you guys, the world? It’s too much everything right now. I almost didn’t even sit down today to blog. But that would have been the wrong thing to do. Blogging, writing, normal, is exactly what needs done right now. Plus, do you know what makes the world a little softer, cozier, and better?
More throw pillows. It’s true. It’s science.
So today I have a little tutorial on making your own throw pillows. I’ve been wanting to switch up my bedding and an incident with a baby and a diaper made that happen this week. I had to change my duvet cover while I washed the other one. I love this soft linen duvet cover from West Elm. But I’ve never really made it work with my style. I kinda bought it on a whim and didn’t spring for the shams. Big mistake. Huge. So now I have this expensive duvet that doesn’t really work with anything else I have.
Our washer also broke this week beyond repair, so that’s the kind of week we’ve had around here. I found myself out at my parents house catching up on laundry a couple different times this week. One of those times I decided to break out the sewing machine to make some pillow covers. Finally making that duvet cover work for me.
When thrifting my mom and I always, and I mean always buy ivory or white fabric. It’s always useful when making our own pillows or other projects. We also always have a stock of drop cloth around. Drop cloth can be used for pillows, curtains, upholstery, etc. It’s cheap too. Always have drop cloths.
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My mom has had yards of this beautiful ivory embroidered fabric for years. Literally. We found it at a thrift shop. We’ve never really done anything with it-it’s always been “too pretty” to use. I snuck a few inches of it for my pillow project. She’s probably just now realizing this with this post. Thanks Mom! For the back I used our trusty drop cloths and decided to make an envelope back so the covers are easy to swap and wash.
I always love how Euro shams look on a bed. The other day I almost bought some from Target but then I remembered I had some pillow inserts in the basement and yards of fabric stored away. I just needed to get to work.
I had inserts that were 20in x 20in. I cut my fabric 22in x 22in to allow for seam allowances and top stitching. Smaller than Euro shams, yes. But they give the similar look and layer to the bed.
For the envelope back I totally winged it. That’s just how I do things. The great thing about drop cloth is that it’s got a finished hem. I decided to save myself the sewing and use that on the outside. So I cut that one to 22in x 15in. The other side of the envelope I did 22in x 11in.
I laid it all out right sides together to make sure it fit like a puzzle and then pined around the edges. The hum of my sewing machine was so relaxing.
When I turned them right side out I was impressed with my work! I poked the corners with my scissors and finished them off with a top stitch. A top stitch always makes things look so professional and finished.
I couldn’t wait to get home and see how they looked. These pillows will also be perfect with my summer quilt, it’s got an ivory backing.
I’d say they turned out well. And the subtle embroidery detail is just perfect.
I’m off to create beauty and cozy my home now. I read a beautiful piece today about how we as mothers are the gate keeper of our home. We set the tone for our children and our husbands. I want to be very intentional with that this weekend and beyond. I want it to feel safe and cozy. I’m going to fast from the media. I know all I need to right now. I’m going to cook good food and read good books.
The kids’ devotional this morning was also about fear. How Jesus calmed the storm. Mark 4: 35-41. That wasn’t an accident friends.
And I know, a few extra throw pillows will only help.
P.S. Any washing machine recommendations? We only had our set for 4, FOUR years. I’m feeling a little burned by this relationship.
Thanks for stopping by!
Jess