A bolster pillow is a long, narrow pillow that is often used for support and comfort during sleep or relaxation. Bolster pillows are a versatile home accessory that can be used in a variety of ways, from propping up your head while reading in bed to providing extra support during yoga or meditation. If you’re looking for a simple and fun DIY project, making your own bolster pillow is a great place to start.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Fabric
- Scissors
- Sewing machine (or needle and thread)
- Measuring tape
- Pins
- Bolster pillow insert (or stuffing)
- Iron
Step 1: Choose Your Fabric
The first step in making your DIY bolster pillow is to choose the fabric you’ll use. You can select any type of fabric you like, but it’s important to choose a fabric that is durable and easy to work with. If you’re new to sewing, consider using a cotton or linen fabric, as these materials are easy to cut, sew, and maintain.
Once you’ve chosen your fabric, measure out the length and width of your bolster pillow. For a standard size bolster pillow, you’ll want to cut a piece of fabric that is at least 36 inches long and 12 inches wide.
Step 2: Cut Your Fabric
Using your fabric scissors, carefully cut your fabric to the appropriate size. Be sure to cut the fabric as straight as possible to ensure a clean and even seam.
Step 3: Fold and Pin Your Fabric
Once your fabric is cut, fold it in half lengthwise with the right sides facing each other. Pin the folded edges together, leaving the two open ends free.
Step 4: Sew Your Fabric
Using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, sew along the pinned edges of your fabric, leaving a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam to secure it in place.
Step 5: Turn Your Fabric Right Side Out
After you’ve sewn your fabric, turn it right side out. Use a pencil or a chopstick to gently push out the corners.
Step 6: Iron Your Fabric
Using an iron, press your fabric to remove any wrinkles and create a crisp edge. Be sure to iron the seam allowance flat as well.
Step 7: Stuff Your Bolster Pillow
Now that your fabric is prepped and ready, it’s time to stuff your bolster pillow. You can either purchase a pre-made bolster pillow insert or stuff your pillow with batting or foam.
If you’re using a pre-made bolster pillow insert, simply insert it into your fabric cover and adjust the stuffing as needed. If you’re stuffing your pillow with batting or foam, use a long, narrow piece of foam or batting and roll it up tightly. Insert the rolled-up batting or foam into your fabric cover and adjust as needed.
Step 8: Close Your Pillow
Once your pillow is stuffed to your desired level of firmness, it’s time to close it up. Pin the two open ends of your fabric together and sew them shut using the same 1/2 inch seam allowance you used earlier. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam to secure it in place.
Step 9: Enjoy Your Bolster Pillow
Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your own DIY bolster pillow. Enjoy your new pillow as a cozy addition to your home decor or use it for support during your yoga or meditation practice.
Tips for Making Your DIY Bolster Pillow
- Be sure to choose a fabric that is durable and easy to work with.
- If you’re new to sewing, start with a simple cotton or linen fabric.
- Use sharp fabric scissors to ensure a clean and even fabric cut.
- Be sure to measure your fabric carefully to ensure the correct size and shape for your bolster pillow.
- If you’re stuffing your pillow with batting or foam, use a long, narrow piece of stuffing and roll it up tightly to ensure a firm and supportive pillow.
- Always backstitch at the beginning and end of your seams to secure them in place.
- Use an iron to press your fabric and create a crisp edge.
- Enjoy your new bolster pillow as a cozy and versatile addition to your home decor.