Free Pattern and Directions for Making a "No-Sew" Pillow Cover

Would you like to be able to swap out your throw pillows to suit different seasons, holidays, or decorating choices? Well now you can and all without the added hassle or expense associated with picking out new pillows or storing them until needed. The following instructions walk you though making simple no-sew pillow shams to cover your existing pillows for any occasion. I make the demo pillow from an old prom dress of my daughters to cover my pillow for the holiday season.

You will need fusible bonding tape, scissors, fabric, and a cloth measuring tape.

  1. Measure your existing pillow both directions. Add two inches to both measurements. My pillow is 12 inches both directions so I cut out 14 inches in each directions for one piece.
  2. Add two inches to both measurements to receive the size of panel you will need for the front of the pillow. My pillow is 12 inches both directions so I cut out 14 inches in each directions for my top piece.
  3. The back will be covered by two separate pieces. They will both be as tall as your pillow (in my case 14 inches) but only ¾ the width of the front panel (in my case 10.5 inches wide).
  4. If you would like to decorate the top of your pillow sham you should do it before proceeding. I added a couple of lace strips using my bonding tape.
  5. Take a back piece and lay it with the good side down. Cut a piece of bonding tape the length of the piece and lay it about ½ an inch down from the raw edge. Fold the raw edge over and press in place using the directions on the bonding product.
  6. Place another strip about ½ an inch from the edge of the hemmed area and fold the hem over again and press.
  7. Cut 2 sets of strips of bonding tape the width and length of the back pieces. Lay the top panel down right side up. Lay the tape near the end of the top and sides for the first back piece. Place back piece over it (right side down) and press securely into place. Repeat with other side.
  8. Be sure to really press the overlap area well.
  9. Turn right side out and press edges.