How To Make Round Pillows DIY Guide To Throws Cushions And Covers

Hey there, DIY enthusiasts! Ever thought about adding a touch of unique flair to your home decor? Round pillows are where it’s at! They're not just comfy; they bring a playful, sophisticated vibe to any space. Whether you're sprucing up your living room, bedroom, or even a cozy reading nook, round pillows can make a world of difference. And guess what? Making them is super easy and totally beginner-friendly. In this guide, we're diving deep into the art of crafting round pillows, from throws to cushions and covers. So, grab your sewing kit, and let's get started!

Why Round Pillows? A Touch of Elegance and Comfort

So, why should you even bother with round pillows? Well, let me tell you, guys, these aren't your average square cushions. Round pillows bring a certain je ne sais quoi to your home decor. They soften the harsh lines of sofas and chairs, creating a more inviting and comfortable atmosphere. Plus, they add a touch of elegance and whimsy that square pillows just can’t match. Think about it: a perfectly round pillow nestled on a chaise lounge or a stack of them adding a playful touch to a window seat. The possibilities are endless!

Beyond aesthetics, round pillows are incredibly versatile. They can be used as floor cushions, accent pillows, or even pet beds. And because you’re making them yourself, you have complete control over the fabric, color, and size. Want a plush velvet pillow for your boudoir? Go for it! How about a bright, patterned cushion for your kids' playroom? No problem! DIY round pillows let you express your personal style and create a home that truly reflects you. Plus, let's be real, there's a certain satisfaction in saying, "Yeah, I made that!"

And let's not forget the sheer fun of the process. Sewing round pillows is a fantastic way to unleash your creativity and learn a new skill. It's a project that's both rewarding and relatively quick, making it perfect for beginners. In just a few hours, you can transform fabric scraps into beautiful, functional pieces of home decor. So, are you ready to add some roundness to your life? Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of making these delightful cushions.

Getting Started: Gathering Your Supplies and Tools

Okay, guys, before we jump into the actual sewing, let’s talk supplies. Gathering everything you need beforehand will make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. Trust me, there's nothing worse than getting halfway through a project and realizing you're missing a crucial item! So, let's make a list and get organized.

Fabric Selection: The Foundation of Your Pillow

First up, fabric! This is where you can really let your personality shine. The best fabric for your round pillow depends on the look and feel you’re going for. If you want something luxurious and cozy, consider velvet or faux fur. These fabrics add a touch of opulence and are incredibly soft to the touch. For a more casual, bohemian vibe, try cotton or linen. These materials are breathable, durable, and come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Canvas and denim are excellent choices for a more rustic or industrial look. They’re sturdy and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Think about the pillow's purpose and location when choosing your fabric. A pillow for a high-traffic area, like a living room sofa, should be made from a durable, easy-to-clean material. If it's for a decorative accent in a guest room, you might opt for something more delicate and luxurious. Don’t be afraid to mix and match fabrics for a unique, eclectic look. Consider using a different fabric for the front and back of the pillow or adding decorative trims and embellishments. The possibilities are truly endless!

Essential Tools: Your Sewing Arsenal

Now, let’s talk tools. You'll need some basic sewing supplies to get started. A sewing machine is a must for faster, more professional-looking results. But if you don’t have one, don’t worry! You can totally sew a round pillow by hand. It’ll just take a bit longer. Other essentials include: Fabric scissors (sharp ones!), Measuring tape or ruler, Pins, Thread (that matches your fabric), Seam ripper (just in case!), Fabric marker or tailor’s chalk, A compass or round object for tracing (like a plate or pot lid).

Having a well-equipped sewing kit will make your life so much easier. A good pair of fabric scissors is crucial for clean, precise cuts. Pins will hold your fabric pieces together while you sew, preventing them from shifting. And a seam ripper? Well, let’s just say everyone makes mistakes, and this little tool is your best friend when you need to undo a stitch or two. Don't forget the measuring tape or ruler for accurate measurements and the fabric marker or tailor’s chalk for marking your fabric.

Filling Matters: Choosing the Right Stuffing

Last but not least, let’s talk filling. The filling you choose will determine the comfort and shape of your round pillow. Polyester fiberfill is a popular choice because it's affordable, hypoallergenic, and easy to work with. It creates a soft, fluffy pillow that’s perfect for lounging. For a firmer pillow, consider using foam stuffing. Foam provides more support and is ideal for cushions that will be used for sitting or leaning against. If you want a more eco-friendly option, try using cotton batting or even recycled materials like fabric scraps. These fillings add a unique texture and reduce waste.

Consider the density and weight of your filling. A denser filling will create a firmer, more substantial pillow, while a lighter filling will result in a softer, more squishy cushion. Experiment with different fillings to find the perfect balance of comfort and support for your needs. And remember, you can always add or remove filling to adjust the firmness of your pillow after it's sewn.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Perfect Round Pillow

Alright, guys, now for the fun part! Let’s get into the actual process of making a round pillow. This is where your creativity and sewing skills come together to create something beautiful and functional. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner; I’ll walk you through each step with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. So, take a deep breath, put on some music, and let’s get crafting!

Step 1: Cutting the Fabric Circles

First things first, you need to cut out your fabric circles. This is the foundation of your round pillow, so accuracy is key. Grab your fabric, measuring tape, and compass (or round object). Decide on the desired diameter of your pillow. A common size for accent pillows is 16-18 inches, but you can adjust this to suit your preferences. Use your compass or round object to trace a circle onto your fabric. If you’re using a compass, set the radius to half the desired diameter. For example, if you want an 18-inch pillow, set the radius to 9 inches.

Pin two layers of fabric together to ensure both circles are identical. This will make the sewing process much easier and prevent any wonky shapes. Carefully cut along the traced line using your fabric scissors. Repeat this step to cut out the second circle. You should now have two perfectly round pieces of fabric ready to be sewn together. Pro tip: If you're using a patterned fabric, pay attention to the placement of the pattern on your circles. You want the design to be centered and visually appealing.

Step 2: Sewing the Pillow Together

Now, it’s time to bring those circles to life! Place the two fabric circles right sides together (the sides of the fabric you want to show on the outside of the pillow). Pin the edges together, leaving a 4-6 inch opening for turning and stuffing. This opening is crucial, so don’t forget it! Sew around the perimeter of the circle using a 1/2-inch seam allowance. If you’re using a sewing machine, set it to a straight stitch and sew slowly and steadily. If you’re hand-sewing, use a backstitch for durability. This stitch creates a strong, secure seam that won’t easily come undone.

Once you’ve sewn almost all the way around, carefully remove the pins. Turn the pillow right side out through the opening you left. Use your fingers or a blunt tool (like a chopstick or knitting needle) to gently push out the seams and create a smooth, rounded edge. Take your time with this step to ensure your pillow has a nice, even shape. Iron the seams to flatten them and give your pillow a professional finish. This step is especially important if you’re using a fabric that wrinkles easily, like linen or cotton.

Step 3: Stuffing and Closing the Pillow

With the pillow right side out, it’s time to add the filling! Grab your chosen stuffing material and start filling the pillow through the opening. Use your hands to distribute the filling evenly, making sure to reach all the edges and corners. Add enough filling to create a firm, plump pillow, but don’t overstuff it. You want the pillow to be comfortable and squishy, not hard and rigid. Periodically check the shape and feel of the pillow as you stuff it. Adjust the amount of filling as needed to achieve your desired firmness and shape.

Once you’re happy with the stuffing, it’s time to close up the opening. Fold the raw edges of the opening inward, creating a clean, finished edge. Pin the edges together. Using a hidden stitch, such as a slip stitch or ladder stitch, carefully sew the opening closed. This stitch creates an invisible seam that blends seamlessly with the rest of the pillow. Remove the pins as you sew. Tie off the thread securely and trim any excess. Ta-da! You’ve just created your very own round pillow!

Adding Flair: Embellishments and Customizations

Okay, guys, you’ve got the basics down. But why stop there? Let’s talk about adding some flair and personality to your round pillows. This is where you can really let your creativity shine and make your pillows truly unique. Think about adding trims, ruffles, buttons, or even embroidery. The possibilities are endless!

Trims and Tassels: A Touch of Elegance

Adding trims and tassels is a simple yet effective way to elevate your round pillows. Consider sewing on pom-pom trim, fringe, or decorative cording around the edges of your pillow. These embellishments add texture and visual interest, transforming a plain pillow into a statement piece. Tassels are another fantastic option. Attach them to the corners of your pillow for a playful, bohemian vibe. You can find a wide variety of trims and tassels at your local fabric store or online. Choose colors and materials that complement your fabric and overall decor style.

Ruffles and Frills: A Romantic Touch

If you’re going for a romantic or vintage look, consider adding ruffles or frills to your round pillows. These delicate details add a touch of femininity and charm. You can create ruffles by gathering a strip of fabric and sewing it along the edge of your pillow. For a more dramatic effect, use multiple layers of ruffles. Frills can be made by cutting strips of fabric into wavy or scalloped shapes and attaching them to the pillow. Experiment with different fabrics and colors to create unique ruffles and frills that reflect your personal style.

Buttons and Embroidery: Personalized Details

Buttons and embroidery are excellent ways to add personalized details to your round pillows. Sew buttons onto the center of your pillow or around the edges for a decorative touch. You can use vintage buttons, mismatched buttons, or buttons that match your fabric. Embroidery allows you to create intricate designs and patterns on your pillow. Embroider your initials, a favorite quote, or a simple motif. If you’re new to embroidery, start with a basic stitch and gradually work your way up to more complex designs. Hand embroidery adds a handmade touch that’s both beautiful and unique.

Conclusion: Your Home, Your Style, Your Round Pillows

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to making round pillows that will add a touch of elegance, comfort, and personality to your home. From selecting the perfect fabric to adding those final embellishments, you now have the knowledge and skills to create stunning cushions that reflect your unique style. Remember, the key to DIY is creativity and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try new things, mix and match fabrics, and put your own spin on these projects. Whether you’re a seasoned sewer or a complete beginner, making round pillows is a fun and rewarding way to enhance your home decor.

So, grab your sewing kit, gather your favorite fabrics, and get ready to transform your living space with these delightful round cushions. Happy sewing, and remember, your home is your canvas – make it beautiful!