Master the Art of Sewing: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Perfect Cushion with Piping and Zipper

AvatarByJill Nammar Sewing

Have you ever found the perfect cushion, only to realize it doesn’t have the finishing touches you desire? Adding piping and a zipper can take a plain cushion to the next level, giving it a professional and custom look. But if you’re new to sewing, this may seem like an intimidating task. Fear not, because in this article, we’ll show you step-by-step how to sew a cushion with piping and a zipper. Get ready to elevate your home decor game and create cushions that are both stylish and functional!

Preparing Your Materials

Before starting any sewing project, it is important to gather all of the necessary materials and supplies. For sewing a cushion with piping and a zip, you will need fabric for the cushion, piping trim, a zipper, an iron, a sewing machine or needle and thread, pins or clips, scissors or rotary cutter, and a ruler or measuring tape.

Firstly, choose a fabric that is suitable for your cushion. A medium weight fabric such as cotton canvas or linen will work well. Make sure to purchase enough fabric to cover the front and back of the cushion as well as the piping. You may also want to consider using a contrasting fabric for the piping for added visual interest.

Next, choose your piping trim. Piping is a cord covered in bias cut fabric that adds dimension and structure to your cushion. You can purchase pre-made piping from most craft stores or make your own using bias tape and cord.

Lastly, choose a zipper that is appropriate for the size of your cushion. A standard zip works well for most cushions but if you are making a large cushion you may want to consider using an invisible zipper for a smoother finish.

Once you have all of your materials gathered, wash and press your fabric before beginning any cutting or sewing to ensure it will not shrink after finishing your project.

Measuring And Cutting Your Fabric

To ensure accuracy in cutting and sewing your cushion with piping and zip, start by measuring the size of your desired finished cushion. Add 1 inch to each side for seam allowances.

For example, if you want to make an 18×18 inch cushion, cut two 19×19 inch squares from your chosen fabric (one for the front and one for the back). If you are making more than one cushion with different sizes, make sure to label each piece accordingly.

Next, measure out strips of fabric to create your piping. The length of the strips should be equal to your desired finished cushion size plus an additional 2 inches for joining. For our 18×18 inch cushion example, you will need two strips of fabric measuring 20 inches in length.

Cut the strips on a 45-degree angle, also known as a bias cut. This will allow for flexibility when sewing around corners and create a smooth finish for your piping.

Attaching Piping To Your Fabric

Now that you have all of your pieces cut, it’s time to attach the piping to the front fabric piece. Start by placing the piping along the edge of your fabric with the cord side facing inwards. Pin or clip it in place around all four edges.

Using a zipper foot on your machine or sewing by hand, stitch as close to the piping cord as possible, attaching it to the fabric. Make sure to stop and readjust at each corner by clipping into the seam allowance of the piping and folding it down.

Once you have attached the piping around all four edges, lay it flat and trim any excess fabric where necessary. Then place the back fabric piece on top with right sides facing each other and pin or clip in place.

Adding A Zipper

To add a zip using this method, you will need to cut two pieces of lining fabric measuring slightly larger than half of your cushion (in our example – two extra pieces measuring at least 10×19 inches).

Place one of these lining pieces over one half of your cushion with right sides together and pin or clip along three edges (top edge and both sides). Sew together using a regular straight stitch leaving a small gap on one side for turning later.

Position another lining piece over the second half of your cushion then laying half as above sew only along one side creating a hinge between them. Turn these two halves out and then press your cushion so that the lining fabrics are flat on the covers.

Next, take your zip and place it face down along one edge of one of the covers, aligning it with the open seam. Pin or clip in place and sew using a zipper foot.

Repeat this step for the other side of the cushion using the remaining lining fabric and zip. Once both sides are attached, turn your cushion right side out through the small gap left in the lining fabric earlier.

Finishing Touches

Once your cushion cover is assembled, it’s time for some finishing touches. Using an iron, press all seams to create a crisp and professional finish.

Next, remove any basting stitches or pins/clips that may still be visible. If you added a zip, make sure it opens smoothly and lays flat.

Finally, insert your cushion form through the gap in the lining fabric and hand stitch it closed using an invisible stitch or ladder stitch. Fluff up your cushion and admire your beautiful finished creation!

Now that you know how to sew a cushion with piping and a zip, you can use this skill to spruce up your home decor with custom cushions in any color or pattern you desire. With some patience and attention to detail, you can create professional

Sewing your own cushion with piping and a zip can add a personal touch to your home decor. Not only is it a fun and creative project, but it also allows you to customize the size, fabric, and design of your cushion. With the right materials and techniques, you can achieve a professional-looking result that will elevate the look of any room. In this guide, we will take you through all the steps needed to create your own cushion with piping and a zip.

Gathering Materials

Before starting your project, make sure you have all the necessary materials at hand. You will need fabric for the cushion cover, piping cord, a zipper, thread, pins or clips, scissors or rotary cutter, a sewing machine with zipper foot attachment, and basic sewing tools such as measuring tape and ruler.

When choosing your fabric, make sure it is washable and durable enough for everyday use. For piping cord, choose a size that fits comfortably in the groove of your zipper foot. Zippers come in different sizes, but for cushions you will generally need an 18-inch or longer zipper with nylon coils for easy sewing.

Creating Your Pattern

The first step in making your cushion cover is creating a pattern. This can be done by tracing around an existing cushion or creating one from scratch using measurements. Use tracing paper or newspaper to trace out two squares or rectangles according to the size of your cushion.

For adding piping around the edges of your cushion cover, add an extra half inch along each edge for seam allowance. If you want to make an envelope-style closure without zippers, add about 6 inches on one side of both squares as overlap.

Cutting Fabric

Using the pattern pieces created in the previous step trace out two squares on your chosen fabric and cut them out carefully using sharp scissors or a rotary cutter. If you are making an envelope-style cushion without a zipper, cut the back piece into two rectangles with one slightly larger than the other.

Constructing Piping

Next, it’s time to create your piping. Cut strips of fabric on the bias (diagonally) in the desired width of your piping cord plus an additional half inch for seam allowance. Keep joining the strips at 45-degree angles to make a continuous strip.

To wrap the piping around your cushion edges, sandwich it between the front and back pieces of fabric with right sides facing each other. Make sure you align the raw edges together and use pins or clips to keep them in place.

Attaching Zipper

Now that your piping is in place, it’s time to attach the zipper. With your front and back pieces pinned together except along one edge, mark a spot about half an inch from one corner where you want your zipper to start and end. This will be your zipper guide.

Take out your zipper foot attachment for your sewing machine and unzip your zipper completely. Pin or clip it under the raw edge of one side of the cushion cover with right sides facing each other and line up the marked points at starting and ending positions. Sew down using a straight stitch, keeping close to the coil but not too close that it obstructs movement.

Repeat this process on the other side, making sure that both sides align properly when zipped up.

Sewing It All Together

With all major components attached, it’s time to sew everything together. Take out any pins or clips holding everything in place except along one edge where you want an overlap (if making an envelope-style closure). Sew all around using a quarter-inch seam allowance, making sure to leave an opening for turning right side out.

Trim off excess fabric at corners and clip curves for smooth edges. Turn the cushion cover right side out and give it a good press.

Finishing Touches

Your cushion cover is almost complete! If you have an overlap closure, simply fold the edges in and sew them together neatly. For a zippered closure, trim off any excess zipper and topstitch around the edges for a clean finish.

Insert your cushion inside and fluff it up to complete your project. You can also add decorative elements such as tassels or buttons if desired.

Now that you know how to sew a cushion with piping and a zip, you can experiment with different fabrics, colors, and sizes to create unique pieces for your home. This project is not only fun and creative, but it also allows you to customize your home decor without breaking the bank. With practice and patience, you can achieve professional-looking results that will impress everyone who sees your homemade cushions. Happy sewing!

Q: What materials do I need to sew a cushion with piping and zip?
A: The materials required for sewing a cushion with piping and zip include fabric, piping cord, zipper, matching thread, needle, sewing machine, scissors, pins, measuring tape, and seam ripper (optional).

Q: How do I choose the perfect fabric for my cushion?
A: Consider the usage of the cushion and the decor of the room when selecting your fabric. Use medium-weight fabrics like cotton or linen for a durable cushion. Avoid using delicate fabrics that may easily tear or fray.

Q: Can I make my own piping for the cushion?
A: Yes, you can make your own piping by wrapping bias tape around piping cord and stitching it in place. Alternatively, you can purchase pre-made piping from a craft store.

Q: Do I need to pre-wash my fabric before sewing?
A: It is always recommended to pre-wash your fabric to prevent shrinking after sewing. If your fabric is prone to shrinking, wash in hot water and dry on high heat before starting your project.

Q: How do I sew the zipper into the cushion cover?
A: First, attach one side of the zipper to one edge of the back panel of the cushion cover. Then attach the other side of the zipper to one edge of the front panel of the cover. Check that both sides line up properly before sewing them in place.

Q: How do I ensure my piping is evenly attached around all edges of the cushion?
A: Pin or baste your piping in place along each edge before sewing it onto the fabric. This will help keep it even on all sides as you sew it in place.

In conclusion, learning how to sew a cushion with piping and zip is a useful skill that can elevate your sewing projects and add a professional touch to your home decor. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you now have the knowledge and confidence to create custom cushions with piping and zippers that are both stylish and functional. Remember to carefully select your fabric, measure accurately, and take your time when sewing the piping and installing the zipper. Additionally, don’t hesitate to experiment with different techniques or designs to make your cushions unique.

One of the key takeaways from this topic is that attention to detail is crucial when it comes to sewing cushions with piping and zippers. The smallest mistake can affect the overall look of the cushion, so precise measurements and stitching are essential. Additionally, mastering these techniques will not only improve your sewing skills but also save you money from buying expensive store-bought cushions.

Furthermore, learning how to sew a cushion with piping and zip allows you to create custom pieces tailored specifically for your home or for others as personalized gifts. It allows for creative expression and opens up possibilities for endless design options. You can also use this skill for other sewing projects such as pillowcases, bags, or clothing.

In summary, sewing cushions with piping and zippers may seem

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.