DIY Throw Pillows to Add Color and Comfort to Your Space

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Throw pillows are the easiest way to transform your space by adding pops of color, texture, and comfort. However, store-bought pillows can be pricey and often lack that personal touch. Why not make your own DIY throw pillows that perfectly match your style and budget? Whether you want to upcycle old fabric, experiment with patterns, or create custom designs, making your own throw pillows is a fun and rewarding project.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating DIY throw pillows and some creative ideas to help you make your space cozy and inviting.

1. Why Make Your Own Throw Pillows?

DIY throw pillows are not just a fun craft project—they also offer practical and creative benefits.

Benefits of DIY Throw Pillows:

  • Customizable: Choose your own fabrics, colors, and patterns to match your decor.
  • Budget-Friendly: Save money by using affordable materials or upcycling fabric you already have.
  • Sustainable: Repurpose old clothes, curtains, or fabric scraps to reduce waste.
  • Unique: Create one-of-a-kind designs that can’t be found in stores.
  • Fun and Easy: Even beginners can tackle this project with minimal tools and effort.

Pro Tip: DIY throw pillows also make thoughtful gifts for friends and family!

2. Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the materials and tools needed for your DIY throw pillows.

Materials:

  • Fabric: Choose cotton, linen, velvet, canvas, or any fabric that suits your style.
  • Stuffing: Use polyester fiberfill, cotton batting, or upcycle an old pillow insert.
  • Thread: Match the thread color to your fabric or use contrasting colors for decorative stitching.
  • Zippers, Buttons, or Velcro (Optional): For removable covers.
  • Decorative Elements: Pom-poms, tassels, embroidery, or fabric paint.

Tools:

  • Sewing machine (or needle for hand-sewing).
  • Fabric scissors.
  • Measuring tape or ruler.
  • Pins or fabric clips.
  • Iron (to press fabric).
  • Fabric glue (optional, for no-sew options).

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Basic Throw Pillow

If you’re new to sewing, start with a basic square or rectangular pillow.

Step 1: Choose the Pillow Size

  • Standard sizes are 16×16 inches or 18×18 inches, but you can customize the size to fit your space.
  • Add ½ inch to each side for seam allowances.

Step 2: Cut Your Fabric

  • Fold the fabric in half with the right (patterned) sides facing inward.
  • Use a measuring tape and fabric scissors to cut two identical squares or rectangles.

Step 3: Sew Three Sides

  • Pin the fabric pieces together, right sides facing inward.
  • Sew along three sides, leaving a ½-inch seam allowance. Use a sewing machine or hand-stitch with a backstitch for durability.
  • Leave one side open for stuffing or adding a zipper.

Step 4: Turn the Pillow Cover Right-Side Out

  • Trim the corners diagonally to reduce bulk.
  • Turn the fabric right-side out and use your fingers or a pencil to push out the corners for a crisp look.

Step 5: Stuff the Pillow

  • Fill the pillow with stuffing or insert a pre-made pillow form. Adjust the filling to your desired firmness.

Step 6: Sew the Final Edge

  • For a permanent closure, fold the edges of the open side inward and sew it shut.
  • For a removable cover, attach a zipper, buttons, or Velcro to the open edge.
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4. Creative DIY Throw Pillow Ideas

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative! Here are some DIY throw pillow ideas to add flair to your space.

1. Painted Pillows

  • Use fabric paint or markers to create custom designs like geometric patterns, florals, or abstract art.
  • Stencil letters or phrases like “Relax” or “Home Sweet Home” for a personalized touch.

2. Upcycled Fabric Pillows

  • Repurpose old T-shirts, denim jeans, or flannel shirts to create unique pillow covers.
  • Use fabric from old curtains, tablecloths, or even scarves for a stylish upcycled look.

3. No-Sew Pillows

  • Use fabric glue or iron-on adhesive tape to join fabric edges instead of sewing.
  • Create a tied-edge pillow by cutting fringes along the edges of two fabric pieces and knotting them together.

4. Add Tassels or Pom-Poms

  • Sew or glue tassels to the corners of your pillow for a playful boho vibe.
  • Attach a pom-pom trim along the edges for a colorful accent.

5. Patchwork Pillows

  • Combine fabric scraps in different colors and patterns to create a quilted or patchwork pillow.
  • Sew the pieces together like a puzzle, then follow the steps for a basic pillow.

6. Embroidered Pillows

  • Use embroidery thread to add delicate floral patterns, monograms, or decorative stitching.
  • Hand-stitch a simple running stitch around the edges for a charming, rustic look.

7. Fur or Velvet Pillows

  • Use faux fur or velvet fabric for a luxurious, cozy feel.
  • Keep the design simple to let the texture stand out.

8. Holiday-Themed Pillows

  • Use seasonal fabrics like plaid for winter or floral prints for spring.
  • Add iron-on decals or embroidery with holiday phrases like “Merry & Bright” or “Hello, Fall.”

5. Styling Tips for DIY Throw Pillows

Now that you’ve created your DIY throw pillows, here are some styling tips to arrange them like a pro.

1. Mix Sizes and Shapes

  • Combine square, rectangular, and round pillows for visual interest.
  • Use oversized pillows for a cozy, lounge-worthy look.

2. Play with Patterns

  • Mix bold prints with solids to balance the look.
  • Pair different patterns, like stripes, florals, and geometric designs, within the same color palette.

3. Layer Textures

  • Add variety with different fabrics like velvet, linen, faux fur, and knit covers.
  • Layer smooth and textured pillows for depth and dimension.

4. Follow a Color Scheme

  • Choose pillows in complementary or contrasting colors to tie the room together.
  • Use accent pillows to introduce a pop of color in a neutral space.

5. Rotate Seasonally

  • Swap out pillow covers for seasonal changes. For example, use bright, lightweight fabrics in summer and warm, cozy textures in winter.

6. FAQs

1. Do I need a sewing machine to make DIY throw pillows?

No! While a sewing machine is faster, you can hand-sew pillows or use no-sew methods like fabric glue or iron-on tape.

2. What’s the best fabric for throw pillows?

Cotton, linen, velvet, and canvas are great options. Choose fabrics that match your decor style and are easy to clean.

3. How much fabric do I need for one pillow?

For a standard 18×18-inch pillow, you’ll need about ½ yard of fabric. Larger pillows may require up to 1 yard.

4. How do I wash my DIY pillow covers?

If the cover is removable, follow the fabric’s care instructions (machine wash or hand wash). For permanent closures, spot-clean with mild detergent.

5. Can I use old pillows as inserts?

Yes! Upcycle old pillows by using their stuffing or simply covering them with a new DIY pillowcase.

6. What’s the easiest pillow design for beginners?

A basic square pillow with a simple sewn or no-sew edge is the easiest project for beginners.

7. How can I make my pillows extra fluffy?

Use high-quality stuffing like polyester fiberfill and overfill the pillow slightly to achieve a plump look.

8. Can I make outdoor pillows?

Yes! Use waterproof or outdoor-friendly fabrics like Sunbrella, and ensure the filling is mold-resistant.

9. How long does it take to make a DIY pillow?

A basic pillow takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your sewing skills. More detailed designs may take longer.

10. How do I create a professional finish?

Iron your fabric before sewing, use sharp scissors for clean cuts, and take your time sewing straight seams.

By creating your own DIY throw pillows, you can add a personal and stylish touch to your space while saving money. Whether you go bold with patterns, keep it cozy with textures, or experiment with creative designs, these pillows will elevate your home decor in no time. Happy crafting! 🪡✨

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