How to Cover a Bolster

A bolster is a cylindrical cushion. Bolsters were originally used to prop up other pillows. Now decorative bolsters are used on chaise lounges and on both ends of some types of benches and sofas. Bolsters are also used to add variety to the throw pillows on a bed. Bolsters can be covered to match or to contrast with the bed covering or upholstery.

Bolster form
Measuring tape
Fabric
Scissors
Sewing machine
Thread
Paper
Compass
Pencil
Ruler
Pins
Needle

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length and diameter of the bolster form. Add 1 inch to both of these measurements. Cut a rectangle with these dimensions to cover the sides of the bolster.
- 2
  Lay the rectangle on a table with the right side up and the ends that correspond to the length measurement on the sides. Fold the rectangle in half by bringing the side ends together.
- 3
  Sew the sides together by sewing 1/2 inch from the side ends. Leave an 8-inch opening in the middle of the seam. You will insert the bolster form through this opening. This is the tube that will cover the sides of the bolster form.
- 4
  Measure the diameter of the end of the bolster form. Draw a circle this diameter on a sheet of paper. Draw around the circle 1/2 inch outside the pencil line to make a larger circle. This is the pattern for the ends of the bolster cover. Cut two out of fabric.
- 5
  Pin the circles to the ends of the tube with the right sides together. The edges of the circles should be even with the edges of the tube.
- 6
  Sew the circles to the ends of the tube by stitching 1/2 inch from the edges.
- 7
  Clip the seam allowances of the circles by cutting perpendicular to the seam line every 1/4 inch around the circle. Clip close to the seam but do not cut it. The seam allowances are the part of the fabric that extends beyond the seam.
- 8
  Turn the cover right-side out and insert the bolster form.
- 9
  Hand sew the opening closed.

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