Steps to Make a Cushion

Select the Size and Shape

• Cushions can be of any size and shape, although most throw pillows are 16 inches square. Choose a shape that matches the style of your room and furniture. Square and rectangular shapes are more formal than circular or cylindrical pillows. The cushion should be large enough to be comfortable but not too large to overwhelm the chair or bed that it sits on. Consider also whether to have a zipper or another form of closure on your cushion. Select the fabric for the cushion cover to match your room decor or to provide contrast. Use heavier-weight, textured fabrics for winter and glossy silks for summer.

Make the Cushion Form

• The cushion form is the inside of the cushion. You can purchase ready-made cushion forms in standard sizes and shapes. For other cushion shapes and sizes, cut out the shape of the cushion pieces from cotton, muslin or light-lining fabric. Sew these together with the right sides facing, leaving a small gap through which to turn the pillow lining right side out. Fill the lining with stuffing such as polyester fiber filler, foam chips or down feathers. Hand sew across the gap.

Cut Out The Cushion Cover

• Using your chosen fabric, cut out the pieces for the cushion cover, A simple cushion will have just two pieces, the front and back. In addition to these pieces, cylindrical cushions have end pieces and circular cushions have a fabric band separating the two. Include a 1/2-inch seam allowance on all measurements. Add extra fabric if your cushion is to have an envelope closure instead of a zipper or buttons.

Sew the Cushion Cover

• After pinning all parts of the cushion cover together with the right sides facing, sew around all the seams, except for the opening. Turn the cushion so that the right side is outside and sew the closure mechanism, be it a zipper, buttons or ties. Place the cushion form into the cover.

Embellishment

• Personalize your cushion by adding embellishments. Buttons and beads add a three-dimensional touch, but place them where they won't hurt the person using the cushion. Add appliques and patches of contrasting fabric or hand embroider flowers, birds or any design you choose on the front of the cushion.