Stitched Easter Pillows

April is almost here. Can you believe that?

Easter is such a lovely holiday and today we decided to decorate a bit.

Pillow covers are an easy way to spruce up any room and so easy to make.

Even if you are not proficient at sewing, really...you CAN do this!

First, you need to measure the pillow you are using.

Add an inch all around and cut out the front of the pillow.

Iron and use a little sizing to make the fabric slightly stiff.

This will make sewing a little easier.

Before making the back, we are going to add the sweet picture, stitched to the front.

I used Martha's Easter clip-art.

I love her designs!

Print out the design, cut it out, and then trace it in the center of your pillow front.

You can use a fabric pencil...or a regular pencil used lightly.

I just erase right off the fabric after I have stitched.
For this project I used a linen textured fabric.

Using a bright colored thread, straight stitch carefully around the outline.
You might want to pick a design with clean lines if this is your first attempt.
This little chicken required a lot of twists and turns, lifting the foot of my sewing machine quite often to turn the fabric.
I love how it turned out!

I like the effect of going over it a couple of times. The thread color really pops out and it kind of gives it a rustic look.
A single stitch is just fine, too.

{Single stitched.}

 {Double stitched.}

Next, we are going to make a envelope slip for the back.

You will need two pieces.

Taking your measurements from the front, cut your 1st back piece to be exactly half of the front.

So...if your front piece measured 14x14 inches, your 1st piece for the back fold would be 14x7.

The next piece you want to overlap by 5 inches.

So take the previous length, and then add 5 more inches to the width.

For instance, if the front piece was 14x14, the 2nd piece for the back would be 14x12 inches.

Hem one side {length} for each of the two pieces.

Now place them right sides together, with the back overlapping.

Pin, and sew 1/2 inch all around the outside.

Back stitch where the fold meets in the back for added strength.

Insert pillow, and enjoy your new little treasure.

This stitching technique could be used on so many things!

Napkins {tutorial here}

Little bags {tutorial here}

Dish towels {tutorial here}

Happy Spring!

~Julia