Making an Envelope Pillow Cover (with Printable Instructions)

Sharing is caring!

Spring is in the air and it’s time to spruce up the home decor. Add a fresh pop of color to your living areas by making an envelope pillow cover (or two or three of them!)

It was high time for a change in our living room decor. I really liked our throw pillows that came with our couch when we purchased it a few years ago, but their comfort level and appeal had started to fade.

While strolling Hobby Lobby last week, I was struck with inspiration for this simple sewing project when I noticed 1) the teal hexagonal fabric (below) and 2) a sign noting that all fabric was 40% off. It was meant to be.

I did some quick calculations for how much I would need for making an envelope pillow cover and *voila* the fabric was cut and placed in my shopping cart. The best part? No zippers or buttons! This quick & simple beginner sewing project will give a pleasant pop of color to your living area. Let’s get started!

How Much Fabric Do I Need to Make a Custom Fit Envelope Pillow Cover?

First, the width of the fabric you need to cut for your fabric is the same as the width of the pillow you want to cover.

Width (in.) of the Pillow = Width (in.) of the Fabric

Second, multiply the length (in.) of the pillow by 2, and then add 6.

Length (in.) of the pillow x 2 + 6 = Length (in.) of the Fabric

For example, if the pillow insert measured 18”x18”, my math would look like this:

(18 x 2) + 6 = 42
Fabric needed will measure 42”L x 20”W

Let’s make things easier! Here are a few typical throw pillow sizes and the amount of fabric necessary for making an envelope pillow cover for each.

• 16” L x 16” W: (16 x 2) + 6 = 38, fabric size needed = 38” L x 16” W
• 18” L x 18” W: (18 x 2) + 6 = 42, fabric size needed = 42” L x 18” W
• 20” L x 20” W: (20 x 2) + 6 = 46, fabric size needed = 46” L x 20” W

If your pillow form is not square, multiply the width by 2 and add 6. For example:

12” L x 22” W: (22 x 2) + 6 = 50, fabric size needed = 12” L x 50” W

You can use the calculation above to make an envelope pillow cover for any size of pillow you’d like!

How Much Should An Envelope Pillow Cover Overlap?

Using the measurements in this post, your fabric ends will overlap 2 to 3 inches. With the fabric overlapped, your pillow cover will completely hide the pillow form inside.

Supplies Needed for this DIY Sewing Project

• sewing machine
• ruler
• pillow insert
• fabric (size varies according to pillow insert)
• thread
• cutting mat
• rotary cutter
• binding clips or pins

Making An Envelope Pillow Cover (Step-by-Step!)

Step One

Using a cutting mat, rotary cutter, and a ruler, cut your fabric to the exact dimensions needed. Use this formula (and remember to measure twice and cut once!):

Width (in.) of the Pillow = Width (in.) of the Fabric

Length (in.) of the pillow x 2 + 6 = Length (in.) of the Fabric

For example, if the pillow insert measured 18”x18”, my math would look like this:

(18 x 2) + 6 = 42
Fabric needed will measure 42”L x 20”W

(Scroll up in this post to see measurement examples for other common pillow sizes!)

Step Two

Fold the end edges of your fabric (the smaller sides) 1/4 inch. Fold it again 1/4 inch. Secure the folded fabric in place with binding clips or pins.

Step Three

Sew each of the end edges in place with approximately 1/4 inch seam allowance.

Step Four

Lay the fabric right side up and fold the end edges over toward the center. Your end edges (or the “envelope” part of the pillow) will overlap 2 to 3 inches. Before you pin or clip the fabric in place, make sure that your pillowcase is laid out to be the same size as your pillow insert.

Step Five

Sew along the binding clips or pins with a 1/4 inch seam allowance to secure the sides of your pillowcase. Flip the pillowcase right-side out, insert your pillow, and admire your finished project!

I’d love to see what you create- share photos of your pillows in the comments!

Save these instructions for later!