Transform scraps of denim and fabric into cozy, textured pillows with rustic-chic charm.
Got a pile of denim scraps from old jeans just waiting for a second chance? These Patchwork Pillow Covers are an easy, satisfying project that lets you mix and match textures, shades, and styles. The result? Custom pillows that add depth and personality to any room—from boho living rooms to farmhouse bedrooms.
🧵 What You’ll Need:
- Denim scraps (various shades from old jeans)
- Additional fabric scraps (optional—cotton, flannel, linen for contrast)
- A pillow insert (16″x16″ or 18″x18″ work great)
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter and mat
- Sewing machine (or needle and strong thread if hand-sewing)
- Pins or fabric clips
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Iron and ironing board
- Zipper, buttons, or envelope-style closure materials (your choice!)
✂️ Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Plan Your Patchwork Design
- Decide how big you want your pillow cover. Measure your pillow insert and add ½” seam allowance all around.
- Sketch a simple layout for your patchwork front—grids (like 4×4 squares), stripes, random block sizes, or even a chevron pattern if you’re feeling ambitious.
2. Cut Your Fabric Pieces
- Use a ruler or template to cut your denim and/or fabric scraps into even shapes. Squares (e.g., 4″x4″) are the easiest to work with.
- Mix light, medium, and dark denim for contrast. Add in prints or solids from other leftover fabric to make it pop.
3. Assemble the Front Panel
- Lay out your cut pieces to finalize your layout before sewing.
- Start sewing pieces together row by row, using a ¼” seam allowance.
- Once each row is sewn, press the seams open with an iron.
- Then sew the rows together to form one full patchwork panel and press the entire piece flat.
4. Make the Backing
You can choose between two types of backs:
Envelope style (easiest):
- Cut two pieces of fabric for the back, each the same width as the front panel but only about ⅔ of the height.
- Fold and hem one long edge of each backing piece.
- Lay them over the front panel (right sides facing), overlapping the hemmed edges to form the envelope opening.
Zipper or button style:
- Cut one solid piece for the back and sew in a zipper or button closure along one side, following a standard pillow cover tutorial.
5. Sew It All Together
- Pin the front and back panels together, right sides facing.
- Sew all the way around the edges using a ½” seam allowance.
- Trim corners and turn the cover right side out.
- Insert your pillow and fluff it up!
🎉 Final Thoughts:
These Patchwork Pillow Covers are proof that scraps can be stunning. It’s a creative, eco-friendly way to personalize your home décor with materials you already have—plus, it’s seriously fun to piece together different fabrics like a puzzle. Whether you’re making one as a gift or refreshing your couch cushions, the result is a cozy, handcrafted accent that looks anything but homemade.
Click here to read this article: https://sharmedlife.com/25-clever-ways-to-give-old-jeans-a-second-life/
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