Master the Art of Pillow Making: A Step-by-Step Guide to Sewing a Zipper in Your Cushions

Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a beginner looking to expand your sewing skills, learning how to sew a zipper in a pillow is an essential technique to have in your repertoire. Not only does it add a professional and polished touch to your pillow creations, but it also allows for easy cleaning and maintenance. However, for many, the thought of sewing in a zipper may seem daunting and confusing. Fear not! In this article, we will break down the steps and provide helpful tips on how to sew a zipper in a pillow with ease. So grab your needle and thread, and let’s get started on mastering this useful skill together.

The Importance of Knowing How to Sew a Zipper in a Pillow

Sewing a zipper may seem like a small detail, but it is an important skill for anyone who wants to create their own home decor. Pillows are a great project for both beginners and advanced sewers, and adding a zipper can take your pillows to the next level.

One of the main reasons to learn how to sew a zipper in a pillow is for practicality. Zippers allow for easy removal of pillow covers, making them easier to clean and maintain. This is especially useful if you have children or pets that may make messes on your pillows. With zippers, you can simply remove the cover and wash it without having to throw away the entire pillow or spend time trying to hand wash it.

In addition to practicality, adding a zipper also adds versatility. When you sew in a zipper, you have more options for changing up the look of your pillows. You can easily switch out different covers and patterns without having to purchase new pillows each time. This saves money in the long run and also allows you to constantly update your home decor.

Aesthetically, sewing in a zipper creates clean lines and a professional finish. It eliminates the need for bulky buttons or ties, giving your pillows a sleek and modern look. Whether you are making throw pillows for your couch or accent pillows for your bed, adding zippers will elevate the overall appearance of your home decor.

Furthermore, learning how to sew a zipper in a pillow opens up opportunities for more complex sewing projects in the future. Once you master this skill, you can use it in other projects such as clothing and accessories.

Materials Needed

Before diving into sewing a zipper into your pillow, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand:

1. Pillow fabric – this can be any type of fabric that matches your preferences and the theme of your home decor.
2. Zipper – try to find a zipper that is slightly longer than the width of your pillow for easier insertion.
3. Scissors – sharp fabric scissors are a must for clean and precise cuts.
4. Pins – you will need pins to hold your fabric in place as you sew.
5. Sewing machine – while a zipper can be sewn by hand, using a sewing machine will save time and produce more professional results.
6. Thread – make sure to use thread that matches the color of your fabric for a seamless finish.
7. Zipper foot – this special attachment for sewing machines helps guide the zipper in place as you sew.
8. Measuring tape or ruler – this will come in handy when measuring your zipper placement.

Step by Step Guide on How to Sew a Zipper in a Pillow

Now that you have all your materials ready, follow these steps for sewing in a zipper:

Step 1: Cut out two identical pieces of fabric for the front and back of your pillow cover. The size should be slightly larger than your pillow insert to allow room for seams.

Step 2: Iron any creases or wrinkles out of your fabric pieces before continuing.

Step 3: Lay one piece of fabric face up on your work surface, with the edge where the zipper will be placed facing you.

Step 4: Lay your zipper face down on top of the fabric, with the top of the zipper facing towards the edge of the fabric. Make sure to center it so there is an equal amount of fabric on both sides.

Step 5: Pin one side of the zipper tape onto the edge of the fabric.

Step 6: Using your sewing machine and zipper foot, carefully sew along one side of the zipper tape until you reach the end.

Step 7: Repeat steps 4-6 with the other side of the zipper, making sure it lines up perfectly with the first side.

Step 8: Once both sides of the zipper have been sewn onto the fabric, unzip the zipper a few inches to make sure it works properly.

Step 9: Lay your other piece of fabric on top of the one with the zipper, right sides together.

Step 10: Pin the two pieces of fabric together around all edges, making sure to avoid the zipper.

Step 11: Sew around all edges of the fabric, leaving a small gap at one end for flipping the pillow cover right-side out.

Step 12: Trim any excess fabric and corners before flipping your pillow cover right-side out.

Step 13: Insert your pillow form and zip up your newly sewn pillow cover!

Tips for Sewing in Zippers

– When purchasing zippers, opt for high-quality ones that will last longer and withstand frequent use.
– Always iron out any creases in your fabric before beginning. This will make sewing easier and produce a cleaner finish.
– Change to a regular presser foot when sewing over zippers as it is easier to maneuver around them without damaging your machine or needle.
– Don’t be afraid to practice! If you are new

How To Sew A Zipper In A Pillow

Materials Needed for Sewing a Zipper in a Pillow

Before beginning your project of sewing a zipper in a pillow, you will need to gather some materials. First and foremost, you will need a zipper, preferably one that is slightly shorter than the width of your pillow. This will prevent the zipper from sticking out at the ends and creating an uneven look. You will also need some sewing pins, scissors, a seam ripper, tailor’s chalk or disappearing ink marker, and of course, a sewing machine.

Preparing the Fabric

The first step in sewing a zipper in a pillow is to prepare your fabric. This involves cutting two pieces of fabric to the same size as your pillow. It’s important to choose a fabric that is sturdy enough to hold up to frequent use and potential washing. After cutting the fabric pieces, use an iron to press them flat and remove any wrinkles.

Marking Where the Zipper Will Go

Once your fabric is prepared, it’s time to mark where the zipper will go on one side of the fabric. Using tailor’s chalk or disappearing ink marker, mark a line down the center of one side of the fabric piece that is slightly shorter than your zipper’s length. Next, using this line as a guide, mark two smaller lines on either side about 1 inch away from the center line. This will be where your zipper stops and starts.

Prepping the Zipper

Before attaching the zipper to your fabric, you’ll need to prep it first. Start by opening up the zipper completely and then placing it face down on top of one of your fabric pieces with its bottom edge along the center marking you made earlier. Use sewing pins to secure it in place. Next, take both pieces of fabric and place them right sides together, sandwiching the zipper in between. Make sure that the zipper teeth are facing towards the fabric and the zipper tape is facing outwards.

Sewing the Zipper in Place

Using your sewing machine set to a straight stitch, start sewing from one edge of the fabric, just below one of your small markings. Stitch along the edge of the fabric until you reach your center marking. Then, with your needle still down, lift up the presser foot and rotate your fabric 90 degrees. Lower the presser foot again and continue stitching along the center line until you reach your second small marking.

At this point, you’ll need to use a seam ripper to remove any stitching that overlaps with your zipper’s teeth. Once that is done, continue stitching until you reach the other edge of the fabric. Be sure to backstitch at both ends to secure your stitches. When finished, check that your zipper opens and closes smoothly.

Attaching The Other Side of The Zipper

Repeat all previous steps with the other fabric piece and zipper tape. However, this time make sure to place your zipper face up on top of your fabric instead of face down as before. This will ensure that both sides of your zipper are aligned correctly when sewn together.

Completing The Pillow

Once both sides of your zipper are sewn in place, take apart any pins holding it together and unzip it about halfway down. Take both fabric pieces and align them right sides together once again. Then using sewing pins or clips, pin around all edges leaving a small gap un-pinned for turning later on.

With a straight stitch, begin stitching from one edge until you reach where you left off pinning earlier. Continue sewing all around until you reach where you started, remembering to backstitch at both ends for added durability. Then, carefully turn your pillow right side out through the gap you left earlier.

Final Touches

With your pillow turned right side out, use your fingers to gently push out all the corners and edges. You can also use the handle of a seam ripper or scissors to push out any stubborn corners. Finally, sew up the gap in the stitching using an invisible stitch or whip stitch. And there you have it – a beautiful pillow with a neatly sewn zipper!

In Conclusion, sewing a zipper in a pillow may seem like a daunting task at first, but with some practice and the right materials, it can be achieved easily. With this simple guide, you’ll be able to add zippers to all your pillows and create beautiful and functional home decor pieces. Just remember to take your time, measure accurately and most importantly, have fun!

Q: What materials do I need to sew a zipper in a pillow?
A: To sew a zipper in a pillow, you will need a zipper, pins, fabric scissors, measuring tape, thread, and a sewing machine.

Q: Can I sew a zipper in a pillow by hand?
AA: Yes, it is possible to sew a zipper in a pillow by hand. However, using a sewing machine will result in neater and more secure stitches.

Q: How do I choose the right size zipper for my pillow?
A: Measure the length of the opening where you want to insert the zipper on your pillow. Choose a zipper that is slightly shorter than this measurement to ensure it fits snugly.

Q: Do I need any special techniques to sew a zipper in a pillow?
A: Yes, there are techniques such as basting and topstitching that can help make sewing zippers easier and more accurate. You can find tutorials and videos online for these techniques.

Q: How can I prevent my fabric from getting stuck in the zipper teeth while sewing?
A: To prevent this issue, use pins to hold your fabric in place before stitching the zipper. You can also place some tissue paper or wax paper between the fabric and the zipper teeth while sewing.

Q: What is the best way to secure both ends of the zipper on my pillow?
A: Some commonly used methods include using hand-stitching or backstitching with your sewing machine. You can also apply some Fray Check or liquid seam sealant over the ends of the zipper for added security.

In today’s fast-paced world, sewing has become a lost art for many individuals. However, learning how to sew a zipper in a pillow is a timeless skill that can add both practicality and style to your home decor. As evident from the step-by-step guide and tips provided, sewing a zipper in a pillow does not have to be intimidating or complicated. With practice and patience, anyone can achieve professional-looking results.

From choosing the right materials to properly measuring and pinning, each step of the process plays a crucial role in creating a successful zipper insertion. By following these steps and paying attention to details, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure that your finished product looks clean and polished.

Moreover, mastering the skill of sewing zippers in pillows opens up endless possibilities for your creativity. You can customize pillows for any room in your home or even make them as gifts for special occasions. Sewing also allows you to repurpose old and worn-out pillows by giving them a new life with fresh fabrics and zippers.

In addition to the practical benefits of sewing zippers in pillows, this skill also offers therapeutic benefits. The focus on sewing helps relieve stress and promotes mindfulness, making it an excellent activity for relaxation.

Overall, knowing how to sew a zipper in a pillow is a

Author Profile

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.