French Seam Pillowcase {tutorial}
Remember this?
Well, several months later, I’m finally back with a simple tutorial! You will need:
- 20″ x 42″ main fabric {I actually made both the pillowcases shown with only 1/2 yard, but, since the pillows were for my toddler, they are rather flat already, 20″ would probably accommodate a new pillow nicely, depending on how tight you want the pillowcases to fit!}
- 2 – 12″ x 20″ accent fabric {again, I didn’t want lots of extra fabric overhanging my pillow, so adjust accordingly!}
First, trim the selvage from the main fabric. Then sew the accent fabric, right sides together, using a 1/2″ seam allowance, to both 20″ edges. Fold the raw edge of the fabric under and top stitch in place, as shown {you could use a french seam here too, but I liked the double row of stitching this made on the outside}:
Next, sew the two long seams, wrong sides together with 1/4″ seam allowance. Turn the pillowcase wrong sides out, and sew the long seams again, with a 3/8″ seam allowance, making sure to catch all the raw edges inside the seam:
Hem by folding down 1/2″, then another 5″ for hem {adjust as desired for pillow size}, stitch in place:
Finish with two rows of top stitching and you have one special pillow!
I think these are a great addition to any room and make a plain pair of sheets a lot more exciting. And Silas loves to crawl in bed and sleep on his trucks pillow! Now that he has some fun pillowcases and wall art, I really need to get busy on his quilt!
I love making pillows with french seams but I always forget how to do them. This one of the best tutorials I’ve seen and I’ll be referring back to it for sure!
Jennifer 🙂
Okay, so a french seam doesn’t lay flat, it’s just like if you sewed two right sides together, only it won’t fray and is nicer, is that right? I always thought for some reason it was some kind of flat seam. Too bad you don’t live nearby, I’d just come let you show me! I feel like such a dunce, but I know sometimes I just have to see stuff to understand it. Thanks for this tutorial–one day I will be making some more pillowcases and I will definitely do this. Or try to, ha!
I’ve always wanted to try a French seam, I guess now is a good time! Thanks for the tutorial!
Love it. Thanks for sharing this! I’ve been thinking about making some new pillowcase covers! Our’s are too plain!
Thank you for the very clear tutorial. I use French seams when making my pillow cases, but I like the method you use for finishing the seam when adding the contrasting band.
I’ve used french seams on clothing, but had not thought to try it on a pillowcase. I love it!
What was the finished size of your pillowcase?